Thanksgiving is a widely celebrated holiday in the United States, traditionally commemorating the harvest and giving thanks for blessings received throughout the year. Despite its association with the Pilgrims and their religious beliefs, many of the customs and rituals of Thanksgiving have roots in Pagan traditions. One prominent Pagan custom incorporated into Thanksgiving is the feasting. In Pagan societies, feasting was a common practice to celebrate the harvest and show gratitude to the gods for a bountiful crop. The Pilgrims carried on this tradition by feasting on a variety of foods, including turkey, corn, and pumpkin, which were abundant during the time of the harvest. Another Pagan tradition assimilated into Thanksgiving is the use of prayer and gratitude.
Acrylic Paint- Orange and Black
Another Pagan tradition assimilated into Thanksgiving is the use of prayer and gratitude. Giving thanks to the gods was an integral part of Pagan rituals, and the Pilgrims adapted this practice to give thanks to their God for the blessings of the harvest and the successful survival in the New World. Today, many people still use prayer and gratitude as a way to express thanks during Thanksgiving.
Dollar Tree Wicked Witch Hat
So if you could even imagine that I found myself strolling the craft aisles of Dollar Tree the other day, imagine that LOL. When I spotted these adorable wooden witch hats I knew that I could transform them into something even more eye catching. Follow along with me and learn how to make your very own Dollar Tree Wicked Witch Hat.
Supplies:
Scrapbook Paper- Hobby Lobby and Joanns
Witch Hat- Dollar Tree
Wicked Cut Out- Dollar Tree
Acrylic Paint- Orange and Black
Sanding Sponge for removing excess paper off edges
Step 1 of this project is to trace your scrapbook paper over the slats of the Witch Hat. I alternated my scrapbook paper designs on my hat. You can use your scrapbook paper however you would like.
Step 2, paint your Witch Hat. I used the black acrylic paint, this can take up to 2 coats. Make sure that you cover the entire hat.
Step 3, once the paint is dry on your Witch Hat, grab your scrapbook paper cut outs. You are going to attach them to your Witch Hat using the Mod Podge.
Step 4 is to paint your Wicked sign. I used orange for the sign itself and black for the little witch hat with a little orange stripe to help make it stand out. This will take 2 coats, and again make sure to cover the entire sign.
Step 5, after the paint on your sign is dry you are going to attach to the Witch Hat using hot glue. You may place this on your hat however you see fit. With this final step your Witch Hat is complete.
This Witch Hat came out so stinking cute. Just enough spooky to brighten up a in home Halloween display. I had a lot of fun making mine and I hope you will too. Do you think you will make Dollar Tree Wicked Witch Hat?
If you enjoyed this DIY check out more below, and find me on social media!
- DIY Halloween Boo Block Trio
- DIY Burlap Witch & Scarecrow Hats
- Fall Barrel Lid Wreath
- DIY Jello Mold Pumpkins
- DIY Primitive Witch Hat
Wicked Cut Out- Dollar Tree
The Native American influence on Thanksgiving also reflects Pagan customs. Native American tribes had their own harvest festivals and ceremonies, which involved dancing, singing, and giving thanks for the Earth's abundance. The Pilgrims learned from the Native Americans and incorporated some of these customs into their own Thanksgiving celebrations. Additionally, the use of cornucopia, or the "horn of plenty," is a Pagan symbol that has become synonymous with Thanksgiving. In Pagan mythology, the cornucopia was a symbol of abundance and prosperity, representing the Earth's fertility. The Pilgrims adopted this symbol and it has continued to be used as a decorative item during Thanksgiving. Despite its Christian and historical associations, Thanksgiving carries vestiges of Pagan customs that have been blended into the holiday. The feasting, prayers of gratitude, Native American influences, and the use of the cornucopia all reflect Pagan traditions that have become ingrained in the fabric of Thanksgiving celebrations. Overall, the incorporation of Pagan customs into Thanksgiving highlights the universal human desire to give thanks for the bounty of the harvest and the blessings of life. Regardless of religious or cultural background, Thanksgiving serves as a time to gather with loved ones, express gratitude, and celebrate the abundance of the season..
Reviews for "Thanksgiving and ancient pagan worship: a connection revealed"
1. Sarah - 2/5 Stars
I was really disappointed to learn that Thanksgiving has pagan customs incorporated into it. As a devout Christian, I believe that we should be celebrating holidays that are centered around God and biblical values. It bothers me that Thanksgiving, a holiday that is supposed to be about giving thanks to God, includes elements from an ancient pagan festival. I would much rather celebrate a holiday that is completely focused on God and his blessings.
2. Mark - 1/5 Stars
I couldn't believe it when I found out that Thanksgiving has pagan roots. It completely changed the way I view the holiday. As someone who takes their faith seriously, I want to celebrate holidays that align with my beliefs. Learning about the pagan customs woven into Thanksgiving made me question its true meaning. I would much rather celebrate a holiday that is solely focused on God and his goodness, rather than incorporating elements from a pagan festival.
3. Emily - 3/5 Stars
Discovering the pagan origins of Thanksgiving made me rethink the holiday. I appreciate the idea of giving thanks and showing gratitude, but knowing that there are pagan customs incorporated into it takes away from the true meaning for me. I would prefer to celebrate a holiday that is purely centered around being grateful to God and excludes any pagan influences. While I still participate in Thanksgiving, I can't help but feel a sense of unease when considering its origins.