The Month of No Sunlight (Almost)
In Barrow, Alaska (now Utqiaġvik), the sun sets in mid-November and doesn’t rise again for about 65 days. That’s a lot of time to nap—or get your money’s worth from Hulu.
The First Thanksgiving Was a Three-Day Potluck
The 1621 harvest feast lasted three full days, and there’s no record of turkey being served. More likely on the menu: venison, cornmeal, and eel. (Yep, eel. Pass the cranberry sauce.)
Veterans Day Was Moved — and the Country Revolted
In 1968, Congress moved Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October to create a three-day weekend. Americans hated it. Protests, petitions, and confusion led to Congress reversing the decision in 1975 and restoring the date to November 11, where it belongs.
Daylight Saving Time Steals More Than Sleep
Studies show that the Monday after the fall time change sees a 24% spike in heart attacks. But hey, at least you’re early for everything that week.
The NFL Owns Thanksgiving
The Detroit Lions have played every Thanksgiving Day since 1934, except during WWII. The Cowboys joined the annual tradition in 1966—and now everyone else just fights for TV time.
Fall Leaves Don’t “Change” Color
They’ve been that color all along! The green chlorophyll fades in autumn, revealing the yellows, oranges, and reds that were hiding underneath. Nature’s version of a seasonal wardrobe change.
November Once Had 29 Days
Before Julius Caesar’s calendar reform in 46 B.C., November only had 29 days. Caesar added one more—because clearly, the month needed more football.
The Macy’s Parade Wasn’t About Thanksgiving
The first parade in 1924 was actually a Christmas parade to celebrate Macy’s new holiday window displays. Turkeys were invited later.
The Pumpkin Pie Myth
At the first Thanksgiving, there were no ovens, no sugar, and no crusts. So the Pilgrims didn’t bake pies—they boiled pumpkins instead. Think pumpkin soup… but sadder.
Election Day’s Odd Timing
Why do we vote on a Tuesday in November? Because in the 1800s, the weekday allowed farmers to travel to town after church but before market day. So yes, our civic duty was literally scheduled around the livestock.