GENERAL
Asian Countries That Celebrate American Thanksgiving

Asian Countries That Celebrate American Thanksgiving: A Global Tradition with Local Twists
Thanksgiving is traditionally an American holiday, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. While it originates from the United States, its values of gratitude, family, and sharing have spread across the globe. Surprisingly, some Asian countries have adopted this American tradition, incorporating their own unique customs and flavors into the celebration. In this article, we will explore Asian countries that celebrate American Thanksgiving, and how each of them brings their own flavor to this iconic holiday.
Why Do Some Asian Countries Celebrate American Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving has historical roots in the United States, but its core themes resonate with people worldwide. For many, it represents an opportunity to give thanks for the harvest and the blessings of the year. In Asian countries, the celebration of American Thanksgiving may have started due to cultural exchange, globalization, and the influence of American culture through media, education, and businesses.
Influence of American Culture in Asia
Many Asian countries, particularly those with significant expatriate communities or strong ties to the U.S., have been introduced to Thanksgiving celebrations through American influence. Schools, embassies, and American multinational companies often observe the holiday, which has led to an increase in awareness and interest. Additionally, social media and television portrayals of Thanksgiving have further solidified its popularity outside the U.S.
Japan: A Unique Fusion of Cultures
The American Influence
In Japan, Thanksgiving is not a national holiday, but it is celebrated by expatriates and Americans living in the country. Many schools, particularly international ones, observe Thanksgiving as an educational event to teach students about American customs and traditions.
Japan’s Own Harvest Festival – Kinrō Kansha no Hi
Interestingly, Japan also has its own version of a harvest celebration, known as Kinrō Kansha no Hi (勤労感謝の日), which is observed on November 23. This holiday, which honors labor and production, overlaps with the timing of American Thanksgiving, and in some ways, the spirit of gratitude for a bountiful harvest aligns with the American holiday.
How Thanksgiving is Celebrated in Japan
While Kinrō Kansha no Hi is a more general observance focused on appreciating hard work, many American expatriates in Japan celebrate Thanksgiving with a traditional meal featuring turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. Tokyo and Osaka, with their large international communities, host Thanksgiving dinners at hotels, restaurants, and even embassies. Additionally, families might gather for a special dinner or a potluck, often incorporating Japanese ingredients alongside the classic American dishes.
South Korea: A Fusion of Tradition and Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving in South Korea: Chuseok vs. American Thanksgiving
In South Korea, the most significant national holiday that shares some similarities with American Thanksgiving is Chuseok, a harvest festival celebrated in late September or early October. During Chuseok, Koreans honor their ancestors through rituals called Charye and enjoy traditional foods like songpyeon (rice cakes) and galbijjim (braised short ribs).
However, many American expatriates living in South Korea, as well as locals with American ties, celebrate American Thanksgiving, particularly in larger cities like Seoul.
How American Thanksgiving is Celebrated in South Korea
While Chuseok and Thanksgiving have different cultural meanings, American Thanksgiving is still observed by many in South Korea. Restaurants and hotels in Seoul, often catering to foreigners, host traditional Thanksgiving dinners featuring turkey, stuffing, and other familiar dishes. In some homes, South Korean families might celebrate Thanksgiving alongside their traditional festivities, blending dishes from both holidays for a unique experience.
The Philippines: A Longstanding American Tradition
The American Connection
The Philippines has a unique relationship with the United States due to its history as an American colony from 1898 to 1946. During this period, many American traditions and holidays became integrated into Filipino culture. Thanksgiving, while not an official national holiday in the Philippines, is widely celebrated, especially in areas with a significant American presence.
How Thanksgiving is Celebrated in the Philippines
In the Philippines, American expatriates, multinational companies, and even some Filipino families embrace Thanksgiving traditions, making it a growing event. Filipino-American families often prepare traditional Thanksgiving meals such as turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie, but with a twist. Some families incorporate Filipino favorites like lechon (roast pig) or adobo into the meal. It’s not unusual to find festive Thanksgiving gatherings in Manila and Cebu, with large hotels and restaurants hosting special dinners for locals and expatriates alike.
The spirit of Thanksgiving in the Philippines is closely tied to the values of family, gratitude, and togetherness, which resonate deeply with Filipino culture. Many use the holiday as an opportunity to give thanks for the blessings of the year and to spend quality time with loved ones.
Hong Kong: A Modern Tradition with American Influence
Thanksgiving in Hong Kong
Hong Kong, a city with a high number of expatriates from around the world, has been introduced to Thanksgiving through the presence of American businesses and schools. Although it’s not a public holiday, the city’s international community celebrates Thanksgiving with much enthusiasm. The expat population and multinational companies, especially American firms, observe the holiday by hosting traditional Thanksgiving dinners in restaurants and hotels.
How Thanksgiving is Celebrated in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, American expatriates celebrate Thanksgiving by enjoying familiar foods like turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. Restaurants often offer Thanksgiving buffets, and some families even prepare Thanksgiving meals at home. Due to Hong Kong’s cosmopolitan nature, it is common to find creative twists on the traditional American dishes, incorporating local ingredients or adapting recipes to cater to different tastes.
Additionally, schools in Hong Kong that offer an American curriculum may observe Thanksgiving through classroom activities, storytelling, and craft projects that teach students about the history and meaning of the holiday.
Singapore: Celebrating Thanksgiving with a Global Community
The American Influence
Like Hong Kong, Singapore is a global hub with a large expatriate community, including many Americans. The presence of American companies, schools, and embassies has introduced Thanksgiving to Singapore, making it a popular celebration, especially among the expatriates. While Thanksgiving is not a national holiday in Singapore, many Americans in the country hold Thanksgiving gatherings or host dinners with friends and family.
How Thanksgiving is Celebrated in Singapore
In Singapore, expat families often prepare traditional Thanksgiving meals in their homes or host dinner parties. Singapore’s multicultural environment also means that Thanksgiving meals may be blended with Asian-inspired dishes. It’s not uncommon to see dishes like satay, laksa, or roast duck served alongside turkey. Many restaurants in Singapore offer special Thanksgiving menus featuring traditional dishes, and some expat communities organize large-scale events to celebrate the holiday together.
India: A Growing Tradition
The Influence of American Culture
In India, Thanksgiving is not a widespread national holiday, but the American expatriate community in cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore has brought the tradition to the forefront. Many Indian schools offering American curriculums and multinational companies with American ties celebrate Thanksgiving, teaching students about the holiday and encouraging employees to participate.
How Thanksgiving is Celebrated in India
In India, Thanksgiving celebrations are typically small, intimate gatherings, where American expatriates prepare traditional meals. These may include turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie, but often with a touch of Indian spice. Some families even incorporate local ingredients, such as tandoori turkey or curry-infused stuffing, creating a fusion of both American and Indian culinary traditions.
Conclusion: Thanksgiving’s Global Reach
While Thanksgiving originated in the United States, it has become a global celebration, particularly in countries with strong American ties or expatriate communities. Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore, and India have all embraced aspects of American Thanksgiving, with each country putting its own spin on the traditional holiday. From hotels offering Thanksgiving dinners to local families incorporating cultural twists into the meal, Thanksgiving has become a way for people around the world to express gratitude, come together with loved ones, and share in the spirit of the season.
As American culture continues to influence countries worldwide, it’s likely that Thanksgiving will continue to grow in popularity, celebrated not only for its historical roots but for the timeless values it represents. Whether through a traditional turkey dinner or a fusion of cultures, Thanksgiving’s message of gratitude and family resonates with people everywhere.
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Exploring Canvas Shapes: Unlocking Creative Possibilities

Exploring Canvas Shapes: Unlocking Creative Possibilities
When it comes to creating art, the canvas is often the first thing that artists think about. Traditionally, canvases have been rectangular or square, but today’s artists are embracing a broader variety of canvas shapes that open up new realms of creativity. Exploring canvas shapes can unlock a world of artistic possibilities, allowing artists to break free from convention and experiment with their compositions in unique and exciting ways.
In this article, we will dive into the various canvas shapes available to artists, how to use them to enhance creativity, and how these shapes influence the final artwork. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or an experienced creator, this guide will help you unlock the full potential of your artistic endeavors.
The Traditional Canvas: Rectangular and Square
Before exploring unconventional shapes, it’s important to acknowledge the classic and still widely used rectangular and square canvases. These shapes have been the staple of art for centuries and are associated with some of the most iconic works of art.
1. The Rectangle
The rectangular canvas is the most commonly used shape in traditional art. Whether in landscape or portrait orientation, rectangular canvases provide artists with a balanced area to express their ideas. The long, wide surface is perfect for creating expansive compositions, such as landscapes or cityscapes. Many Renaissance paintings and classical works feature large, rectangular canvases that allowed artists to spread out their scenes and compositions.
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Landscape Orientation: When using a rectangular canvas in landscape orientation, artists have the freedom to depict expansive vistas, broad landscapes, and horizontal themes. The width of the canvas helps create a sense of space and movement.
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Portrait Orientation: The portrait orientation is great for portraits, full-body depictions, or vertical compositions that emphasize height or dramatic focus. Portraits of historical figures or spiritual depictions often feature tall, narrow canvases to accentuate their vertical composition.
2. The Square
Square canvases are symmetrical and have an even balance between width and height. While less commonly used than rectangular ones, square canvases are an excellent choice for artists who want to create work that feels equal in all directions. This shape is great for more modern or experimental artwork that doesn’t necessarily rely on the classical concept of space and perspective.
Artists like Piet Mondrian and Andy Warhol utilized square canvases to create their abstract works. The square format allows for a sense of order and harmony in a composition and can often evoke a feeling of stability.
Unlocking Creativity with Non-Traditional Canvas Shapes
While rectangular and square canvases are the most widely used, non-traditional canvas shapes are gaining popularity among artists. These unique canvases encourage experimentation and innovation, pushing artists to think outside the box (literally).
1. Circular Canvases
The circle has been used in art for centuries, representing everything from the cyclical nature of life to the concept of eternity. By using a circular canvas, artists can create a work that focuses on unity and flow. Circular canvases are perfect for creating works that emphasize balance and symmetry.
Circular canvases can be particularly powerful for certain types of artworks, such as mandalas or abstract compositions. The continuous curve of the circle draws the eye inward and encourages the viewer to examine the artwork from all angles. Additionally, circular canvases are excellent for creating paintings that have a spiritual or cosmic feel.
2. Triangular Canvases
For those seeking to explore geometry and abstract concepts, triangular canvases provide a striking option. A triangle naturally suggests stability and balance, but it can also be dynamic and challenging depending on how it is oriented. Artists can play with the angles and lines of a triangular canvas to create visual tension or harmony.
Triangular canvases are often seen in modern and contemporary art, where the artist might use the shape to emphasize angles, edges, and geometric patterns. Triangular canvases can also evoke themes of direction or movement, as the sharp points of the triangle suggest forward momentum.
3. Oval Canvases
An oval canvas is an elegant choice for artists who want to create a unique composition with a sense of movement and flow. The oval shape can create a softer, more organic feel, which is ideal for figurative and nature-inspired work. Oval canvases are often used in portraiture, as the shape complements the human form and adds an element of fluidity to the composition.
Oval canvases are less common than other shapes, making them an excellent choice for artists looking to differentiate their work. They can evoke themes of transformation, natural beauty, and the passage of time, depending on the subject matter.
4. Custom-Shaped Canvases
One of the most exciting aspects of modern art is the freedom to create custom-shaped canvases. Artists can cut their own canvas into any shape they desire, allowing for complete freedom in composition and expression. This approach is commonly used in installation art and sculpture, where the canvas is treated as a three-dimensional object rather than just a flat surface.
Custom-shaped canvases can be anything from organic, flowing curves to angular, jagged edges that interact with the space around them. Artists can experiment with shapes that evoke specific feelings or ideas, and the shape itself can become an integral part of the artwork’s message.
How Canvas Shapes Influence Artistic Expression
The shape of the canvas you choose can significantly affect how you approach your artwork. Here are some ways in which the canvas shape influences creative expression:
1. Composition and Balance
Different canvas shapes require different approaches to composition. For example, a rectangular canvas often prompts an artist to think in terms of depth, space, and perspective, as it encourages horizontal or vertical lines that lead the viewer’s eye across the work. A circle or oval might lead to a more centralized or symmetrical composition, while triangular shapes could inspire an artist to explore lines, angles, and geometric abstraction.
The canvas shape can determine how an artist organizes their elements, such as the placement of focal points and the use of negative space. In many cases, the shape itself can guide the flow of the artwork, leading to a more intentional and cohesive design.
2. Movement and Emotion
The shape of the canvas can also influence the emotional tone of the piece. A square canvas may evoke feelings of stability and order, while a circle may communicate continuity or infinity. A triangle can create a sense of tension or dynamism, while a custom-shaped canvas can evoke a sense of individuality or abstraction.
In essence, the shape of the canvas becomes an active participant in the artwork, contributing to its overall meaning and emotional impact.
3. Creativity and Innovation
Exploring different canvas shapes encourages innovation. Artists who choose non-traditional shapes are forced to think creatively about how to compose and balance their work. Rather than adhering to conventional forms, artists are empowered to break the rules and experiment with the physicality of the canvas itself.
Custom shapes also allow for more interaction with the surrounding space. For example, an irregularly shaped canvas can influence how the viewer perceives the piece in a gallery setting or in the context of an installation.
Choosing the Right Canvas Shape for Your Artwork
While traditional rectangular and square canvases are tried and true, experimenting with unique shapes can bring new life to your artistic practice. Here are some considerations when selecting the best canvas shape for your work:
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Subject Matter: Consider how the shape of the canvas will interact with your subject matter. For instance, portrait artists may find oval or circular canvases to be a natural fit, while abstract artists may enjoy the freedom of a triangular or custom-shaped canvas.
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Message and Emotion: Think about the emotional tone you want to convey. Do you want stability, fluidity, tension, or freedom? The shape of the canvas can amplify these feelings.
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Space: Consider the space where the artwork will be displayed. Some shapes, such as rectangular or square canvases, may be more suited for traditional gallery walls, while custom shapes or installations might interact better with open spaces.
Conclusion
Exploring canvas shapes is a journey that opens up a world of creative possibilities for artists. By breaking free from traditional formats, artists can discover new ways to express themselves, from geometric abstraction to organic, flowing compositions. Whether you choose a classic rectangular canvas or experiment with circular, triangular, or custom shapes, the right canvas can enhance your creative expression and help you achieve your artistic vision. Embrace the possibilities that different canvas shapes provide, and let your creativity guide the way.
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