Forefathers' Day is observed on December 22 each year, mainly in Plymouth, Massachusetts. It commemorates the landing of the Pilgrims from the Mayflower at Plymouth in December 1620, where they founded Plymouth Colony. First celebrated in 1769, it is one of the oldest continuously observed commemorations in the United States, traditionally marked with a parade, speeches and a meal of succotash.
History of Forefathers' Day
The Mayflower set sail from England in September 1620, carrying about 102 passengers. After a difficult voyage, it reached Cape Cod in November, and the passengers signed the Mayflower Compact, agreeing to form a government. After exploring the coast, a party chose Plymouth Harbor, and the Pilgrims began building their settlement in late December 1620.
In 1769, the Old Colony Club of Plymouth held the first Forefathers' Day celebration. A confusion in converting the old Julian calendar date to the Gregorian calendar led them to choose December 22, though the landing is usually dated December 21. Over time, the day became tied to Plymouth Rock, the boulder said to mark the landing spot.
Traditional celebrations feature a breakfast or dinner of succotash, a stew of corn, beans and meat that echoes Native American foods. Historians also emphasize the story of the Wampanoag people, who had lived in the region for thousands of years and whose lives were devastated by disease and colonization.
Why Forefathers' Day Matters
Forefathers' Day reflects how early Americans remembered their origins and created traditions around them.
It offers a chance to learn about the Mayflower Compact, an early experiment in self-government.
It also invites a fuller, more honest look at history, including the perspective of the Wampanoag Nation and other Indigenous peoples.
How to Celebrate Forefathers' Day
- Visit Plymouth: see Plymouth Rock and Plimoth Patuxet Museums.
- Cook succotash: make the traditional corn and bean stew.
- Read the Mayflower Compact: discuss its ideas about self-government.
- Learn Wampanoag history: explore Indigenous perspectives.
- Research genealogy: see if you have Mayflower ancestors.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, share a short history of the Mayflower Compact or Plymouth Colony. In classrooms, students can compare the Pilgrims' and Wampanoag perspectives, analyze the Mayflower Compact, or cook succotash. At home, families can make succotash for dinner, read about early colonial life, or research family history. Present the history thoughtfully, including the impact on Native peoples.
Fun Facts About Forefathers' Day
- The first Forefathers' Day was celebrated in 1769.
- About 102 passengers sailed on the Mayflower.
- Succotash is the traditional Forefathers' Day meal.
Forefathers' Day FAQs
When is Forefathers' Day?
Forefathers' Day is observed on December 22 each year, mainly in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
What does Forefathers' Day commemorate?
It commemorates the Pilgrims' landing at Plymouth in December 1620.
When was Forefathers' Day first celebrated?
The Old Colony Club of Plymouth first celebrated it in 1769.
Why is it on December 22?
A calendar conversion error led to December 22, though the landing is usually dated December 21.
What food is eaten on Forefathers' Day?
Succotash, a stew of corn, beans and meat.
What is the Mayflower Compact?
An agreement signed by the Mayflower passengers in 1620 to form a self-governing community.