How the Tradition Began

In 1993, Jim Sweeney, a creative and jovial father, initiated a heartwarming tradition that would forever transform the family’s Thanksgiving celebrations. Inspired by a desire to infuse more joy and laughter into the holiday, Jim proposed the idea of a hand turkey contest. Easter has it’s egg decorating and baskets, the Fourth of July has fireworks and grilling, but it seemed that there was a void of family gathering activities while the meal was being prepared. The concept was simple yet ingenious – each family member would trace and decorate their handprints, fashioning them into imaginative turkeys. Jim’s motivation was to foster a sense of togetherness and creativity, recognizing that shared activities could deepen family bonds. Little did he know that this modest idea would evolve into an annual highlight, marking each Thanksgiving with friendly competition, artistic expression, and enduring memories.

Year after year, the Sweeney family eagerly anticipated the event, turning the hand turkey contest into a beloved tradition. Idea generation would occur all during the year as the events of the world would develop into that year’s hand turkey theme. The dining table became a lively workshop, adorned with papers, markers, and the shared excitement of family members young and old. The legacy persisted, creating a unique space for generations to express gratitude through art, laughter, and the vibrant display of handcrafted turkeys that adorned the family home every Thanksgiving.