Family, Friends, Gratitude and Pie

Thanksgiving often ranks among the most popular national and religious events for Americans, with gratitude for family and friends a big reason why. Governors frequently highlight this deeper meaning, emphasizing the blessings of friendship, the strength of family bonds, and the value of service to others. By encouraging Americans to recognize others and express gratitude, support their communities, and reach out to those in need, Thanksgiving is a moment to reaffirm shared values and nurture the connections that sustain our nation. Governors also have practical advice on how to Disagree Better:

And if that doesn’t work…have you tried pie?

Below are Google searches for pumpkin, apple, pecan, sweet potato and chocolate pie (the big five) since 2004, don’t squint too hard, we are going to zoom in shortly, but notice those spikes? Let’s call that the Thanksgiving pie metronome. 

Looking at last year, we see interest starting to grow a week out, pick up speed over the weekend (shopping?), before jumping dramatically the day before (recipes?), peaking on Thanksgiving (cooking time & temp?), and then falling off dramatically the day after (no regrets?)

“As families and friends across Massachusetts and the country gather together, may we be mindful of our gifts and talents, our blessings, relationships and goodwill, the peace we enjoy, the liberty we cherish, and the hope we have for a joyful year ahead.”

Governor Maura Healey

“Thanksgiving Day is a time for Arkansans to travel home and reconnect with family over delicious food, giving thanks for the bounty we enjoy; and I encourage my fellow Arkansans to celebrate this day with gratitude and quiet reflection on God’s gifts to us all.”

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders

The big winner is pumpkin pie, perhaps because it is most closely associated with Thanksgiving, and maybe because Thanksgiving is the only time most people bake them, so they need a refresher.

“This Thanksgiving, our family is giving thanks for the kindness and compassion Kentuckians share daily. Thank you for making this place we call home so special.”

Governor Andy Beshear

“As you gather together and share precious moments with your loved ones, let us continue to thank God for His many blessings on Alabama and our country.”

Governor Kay Ivey

But that doesn’t mean that people don’t have other favorites, and while pumpkin is the most searched for pie for most states, here are top search states for each pie:

Whatever your dessert choice, find something to give thanks for and have a great Thanksgiving.

“Happy Thanksgiving Oklahoma! Today and every day, I am thankful for my family, this beautiful state, our freedoms, and the opportunity to serve all 4 million Oklahomans.”

Governor Kevin Stitt

“The First Lady and I couldn’t be more thankful to all of Maryland as we work together to build a brighter and stronger future for every person in our state.”

Governor Wes Moore