Thanksgiving / National Holidays

This week, in honor of Thanksgiving, I thought we could discuss national holidays of the US, of Spain, region celebrations, etc.  I have included an easy New York Times article about American ex-patriots celebrating Thanksgiving in France.  

What, if anything, do you know about Thanksgiving?  How did you learn about it?

Because Thanksgiving involves a multi-day vacation, there are many events that are affiliated with it. Do you know any of these 'affiliated' events?

The article mentions that Thanksgiving is a holiday without religious or political affiliations.  However, it is a holiday that is firmly placed in a consumerist tradition. Think about this aspect of thanksgiving; do you know any specific aspects of this consumer tradition?

Thanksgiving is very particular to the US and Canada.  What holidays are particular to Spain?  Can you explain them?  If you were living in a different country (or if you have lived in a different country), which holidays would you miss?  Would you try to re-create them with local Spanish-ex-pats?