President Obama The National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation is an annual ceremony that takes place in the White House Rose Garden. The tradition officially began in 1947, when members of the National Turkey Federation presented President Truman with the National Thanksgiving Turkey. The ceremony allows the president to unofficially usher in the holiday season, and to reflect upon the meaning and value of the Thanksgiving holiday. What makes this annual ritual so whimsical and memorable is that, for many years, the presidents has spared the life of the National Turkey by granting it a presidential "pardon". Here are some fascinating facts about the National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation. President Clinton It is believed that the tradition goes all the way back to the administration of President Abraham Lincoln. As the story goes, President Lincoln spared the life of a turkey out of love and loyalty to his son, Tad, who wanted to keep it as a pet.
FOLKLORE, FACTS AND FEATURES ABOUT HOLIDAYS AND FESTIVALS AROUND THE WORLD