Thanksgiving by Horoscope Sign

by Simone Butler

As Thanksgiving rolls around once again, wouldn't it be more meaningful to break from tradition and celebrate in ways that will make us truly happy?

We all have much to be grateful for, so how about gathering friends and family to count our blessings in ways well suited to our horoscope signs? Here are some great astrology-based ideas to lend even more meaning to your Thanksgiving holiday.

Aries (March 21 - April 19)

You love the great outdoors. If the weather is cooperative, why not throw a Thanksgiving picnic at your favorite local park this year? Give rein to your fiery spirit by decorating the tables with red-and-white checkered tablecloths, red cutlery and napkins. Get small, pre-roasted turkeys to keep it simple, and ask friends and family to bring their favorite dish. Play croquet or volleyball on the lawn and a good time will be had by all!

Taurus (April 20 to May 20)

Because you're such a great cook, you usually end up doing the honors. Why not give yourself a break this year and gather everyone at your favorite restaurant for an unforgettable holiday meal? Book a reservation at a top steakhouse, pizzeria or smorgasbord (do it the day after Thanksgiving if they're closed). Or, for a real change of pace, assemble friends and family at a Thai, Cuban or Ethiopian place you like..

Gemini (May 21 to June 20)

Because you love to be on the move, you might enjoy organizing a progressive Thanksgiving meal this year. People could start at your place for appetizers and drinks, then move on to a health-conscious Virgo's house for salad and soup. Ask a Taurus or Cancer who loves to cook to host the main course at their cozy abode, then finish up with dessert and aperitifs at your favorite Pisces or Leo's luxurious den.

Cancer (June 21 to July 22)

You often fret about holidays, afraid your meal won't turn out perfectly or that people won't get along. This year, take the pressure off yourself by having the meal catered, or by preparing the food the day before so you can just heat it up at the last minute. Better yet, let someone else host the gathering this year so you can really relax! As long as you bring Grandma's special Dutch apple or pecan pie, everyone will be happy.

Leo (July 23 to Aug. 22)

Indulge your adventurous spirit this year. See if you can arrange to have Thanksgiving dinner at your favorite ski lodge or golf course. That way, you can work up an appetite before you eat! You could also host a "gratitude gathering," in which you ask friends and family to bring a dish that symbolizes what they're most grateful for, or finish your usual celebration with a round of charades in which people act out their blessings!

Virgo (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22)

Nothing makes you happier than gathering the family around you at the holidays. Why not extend your definition of "family" this year and volunteer to feed the homeless at a local shelter? You could also celebrate with the residents at a local nursing home. Or, include a less fortunate family in your home-cooked meal. Serve healthy fare like organic turkey, fresh vegetables with herbs, whole-wheat rolls and sparkling cider.