Gather ‘Round the Retro Thanksgiving Table

Thanksgiving is the perfect holiday for honoring family traditions and passing down recipes through the generations. These retro Thanksgiving ads serve as a reminder that, while some of these traditions still carry through to today, we’re glad to say that some have their immovable place in history.

Lancaster Turkeys, 1950: Not much has changed for the Thanksgiving bird of choice in 64 years, and aside from the dated copy, this ad could make a run for today.

lancaster turkey 1950

Source: Flickr

Hellmann’s Cranberry Surprise, 1958: Because there’s nothing like a gelatinous cranberry blob topped with mayonnaise to get you in the Thanksgiving spirit! This is one recipe we’re glad didn’t make it out of the 50’s…or did it?

California Olives, 1969: The bold olive, making a play for the already crowded Thanksgiving table. Sorry, California Olives, vegetables don’t stand a chance on this holiday unless they’re drowned in gravy. See you at Easter?

Jell-O Gelatin, 1979: When you need a recipe that exudes as much energy the sugar-infused children around your Thanksgiving table, a Jell-O Brand Gelatin Salad might be the answer to the “bounce, wobble, shimmer, and shine” you’re looking for.

Kraft & Blue Diamond, 1980: We love the 80’s, in all the decade’s quirky, DIY glory. Tantalizing guests’ appetites with The Nutsnacker would guarantee some stares, though whether in admiration or otherwise isn’t clear.

Whichever decade inspires your Thanksgiving table tomorrow, we wish you a happy and delicious holiday!

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