Thanksgiving 2025: A Day of Gratitude and Tradition

At Tognoli Florist, we love Thanksgiving! It’s more than just a holiday—it’s a time to pause and reflect on life’s blessings, to gather with loved ones, and to create lasting memories around a table filled with delicious food and warm smiles. Falling on Thursday, November 27, 2025, this cherished holiday holds a special place in our hearts, blending deep-rooted history with joyful traditions that bring people together year after year. Whether it’s the aroma of a freshly roasted turkey, the laughter of family and friends, or the quiet moments of gratitude shared before the meal, Thanksgiving is a celebration like no other.

Beyond the traditions of food and family, Thanksgiving is also about setting the stage for togetherness, and that’s where we come in. At Tognoli Florist in Gaithersburg, Maryland, we believe that flowers play a magical role in transforming spaces into warm, inviting havens. A thoughtfully designed floral centerpiece, a festive autumn wreath, or even a simple bouquet can elevate your Thanksgiving celebration, making it more memorable for everyone gathered around the table.

But Thanksgiving isn’t just about what’s on the table—it’s about the meaning behind it. This holiday is rooted in history, dating back over 400 years to a meal of gratitude shared between Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people. It’s a reminder of the importance of community, generosity, and giving thanks for the abundance in our lives. Today, we continue these traditions in our own way, through meals shared with loved ones, acts of kindness, and even community events like parades and volunteer opportunities.

As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving this year, we invite you to join us in embracing all the beauty this holiday has to offer. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner, joining friends for a festive potluck, or looking to bring a little seasonal cheer to your home, flowers are the perfect way to add that extra touch of warmth and charm. So, let’s dive into what makes Thanksgiving so special—and how Tognoli Florist can help make your celebration even more beautiful!

What Is Thanksgiving All About?

Thanksgiving is a uniquely American holiday with roots dating back to 1621. After a grueling first winter in Massachusetts, the Pilgrims, who had arrived on the Mayflower seeking religious freedom, faced hunger and harsh conditions. Their fortunes changed when they formed a bond with the Wampanoag people, led by Chief Massasoit. The Wampanoag taught the Pilgrims how to grow corn, fish, and hunt, enabling a successful harvest. That fall, the two groups came together for a three-day feast of gratitude, sharing venison, wildfowl, and local vegetables in what is now considered the first Thanksgiving.

This early celebration was about survival, friendship, and giving thanks for abundance—a stark contrast to the lavish meals and parades we associate with the holiday today. It wasn’t until 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday. He envisioned it as a time to unify the country and express gratitude, even during great hardship.

Thanksgiving’s date was later standardized as the fourth Thursday in November by Congress in 1941, cementing its place as a cherished American tradition. Over the years, it has grown to symbolize togetherness, gratitude, and community, evolving from a simple harvest meal into a holiday filled with family feasts, parades, and acts of kindness. Follow this link to explore more about Thanksgiving's history.

How Do People Celebrate Thanksgiving Today?

Thanksgiving has evolved into one of the most beloved family holidays in the U.S. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Family Gatherings and Food

The star of the day is, of course, the meal! Roast turkey takes center stage, often accompanied by classics like stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Families gather, share stories, and pause to reflect on the blessings of the year.

2. Parades and Festivities

If you’re in Montgomery County, Maryland, don’t miss the Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade in Silver Spring! It’s the only Thanksgiving parade in the Washington, D.C., metro area and features everything from massive inflatable turkeys to marching bands and festive floats. It’s fun for all ages and a great way to kick off the holiday spirit! (Learn more about the parade).

3. Giving Back

Thanksgiving is also a time for kindness. Many people volunteer at food banks or participate in local charity events, sharing their blessings with those in need.

4. Unique Traditions

Did you know the President of the United States "pardons" a turkey every year? This quirky tradition adds a fun twist to the holiday, giving two lucky turkeys a chance to live out their days on a farm.

How Flowers Can Make Thanksgiving Even More Special

Thanksgiving is about creating warm, welcoming spaces, and nothing does that better than flowers. Whether you’re hosting dinner or visiting loved ones, flowers can add charm and elegance to any celebration. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Centerpieces That Steal the Show: Picture a stunning arrangement of sunflowers, chrysanthemums, and roses in rich autumn tones—perfect for your dining table.

• Thoughtful Hostess Gifts: A hand-tied bouquet of seasonal blooms is a wonderful way to say “thank you” to your host.

• Door Wreaths for a Festive Welcome: DIY a warm first impression with a wreath featuring berries, dried wheat, and lush greenery.

Celebrate Thanksgiving with Tognoli Florist

At Tognoli Florist, we’re here to make your Thanksgiving extra special. Our carefully crafted arrangements capture the spirit of the season and make any gathering unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a big dinner or simply want to add a festive touch to your home, we’ve got you covered.

Join the Community Spirit

Thanksgiving is all about connection—whether it’s sharing a meal, cheering at a parade, or giving back. If you’re in Montgomery County, make sure to check out the local Thanksgiving Parade in Silver Spring. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the day with your community.

Looking for the perfect floral arrangement for your Thanksgiving table? Browse our Fall and Thanksgiving floral collection online. We’d love to help you make this holiday one to remember!

How To Keep Corsages and Boutonnieres Fresh Using a Hydration Chamber

Your boutonniere or corsage deserves to look as vibrant as possible for your special event. To ensure that your wearable flowers remain fresh and beautiful until you’re ready to wear them, using a ‘hydration chamber’ is key. This technique maintains hydration without a direct water source, making it ideal for preparing flowers in advance or for long-distance travel.

Hydration Chamber: Keeping Flowers Hydrated Without a Water Source

1. Prepare Your Flowers:

Start by spraying your flowers with Crowning Glory, a floral spray that locks in moisture once it dries. If Crowning Glory isn’t available, you can use water. It’s recommended to let the spray or water dry completely before proceeding. This ensures that the flowers are not overly wet, which could potentially harm them in storage.

2. Set Up the Hydration Chamber:

Grab a few paper towels, soak them in water, and then squeeze out the excess. Fold the damp paper towels to fit the size of your container. Place a layer of these paper towels at the bottom of your container. Next, arrange your flowers on top of this layer. Add another layer of damp paper towels over the flowers to create a humid environment.

3. Seal and Store:

Close the container securely and place it inside a resealable plastic bag or use a Tupperware container instead of a separate bag. For short-term storage, keep this setup in a cool room, ideally below 61F. If you’re storing the flowers for 1-2 days or more, place the container in the fridge. Make sure the fridge is above 34F or the flowers might get burned, also, no fruits or veggies near them. Make sure to use the vegetable drawer but remove any vegetables, as they can emit gases that might harm the flowers.

Keep this setup in a cool room, ideally below 61F or in a fridge above 34F

Important Note:

This hydration technique works best for hardy flowers like calla lilies, roses, and other similar blooms. Unfortunately, it may not be effective for all flower types. For example, hydrangeas tend to wilt quickly if they’re without water for more than 2 hours. They require constant hydration and may not fare well in a hydration chamber.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your boutonnières and corsages remain fresh and stunning for your special day. Have you tried this method before? Let us know how it worked for you!

How to Remove Lily Pollen Without Staining the Petals

Lily pollen can be both beautiful and challenging to handle, especially if you want to avoid stains on your petals and surroundings. Here’s a florist-approved method to keep your lilies looking perfect.

1. Remove the Anthers

One crucial step is to remove the anthers from the lily. Anthers are where the pollen is produced, and removing them not only helps prevent stains but also contributes to the longevity of the flowers. Florists often do this to ensure that the flowers last longer and don’t stain your house or the other flowers in the arrangement. At Tognoli Florist, we always remove anthers from open lilies before designing your arrangements to maintain their beauty and prevent any mess.

2. Use a Chenille Pipe Cleaner

For effective pollen removal, use a chenille pipe cleaner. This soft, fuzzy tool is perfect for gently lifting pollen off the delicate petals. Carefully wipe the pollen-covered areas with the pipe cleaner without applying too much pressure. This method helps keep your lilies looking fresh and vibrant, without leaving any residue or causing damage. Note that for this technique to work, the pollen needs to be fresh. If the pollen has been crushed into the petal or fabric, or if you press too hard, it might stain deeper and become more difficult to remove.

3. Extend the Technique to Fabrics

Interestingly, the chenille pipe cleaner technique also works on fabrics. If you find pollen on your clothes or tablecloths, gently wipe the affected areas with the pipe cleaner to remove the pollen. Be cautious not to press too hard, as this could push the pollen deeper into the fabric.

Following these steps will help you keep your lilies pristine and your space clean. Have you tried this method? Share your experiences or additional tips for handling lily pollen with us!