Food Traditions in Prisons: Thanksgiving and Christmas

Thanksgiving and Christmas are special times for families and friends to gather together and enjoy a delicious meal. However, for individuals in prison, these holidays can be quite different. This article explores the typical food served during these important occasions, and how prison conditions and traditions differ from those in the outside world.

How Prisons Celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas

Both Thanksgiving and Christmas are celebrated within prisons, with special dinners that attempt to be as authentic as possible. During these holidays, prisoners are provided with meals that are meant to recall the traditional dinners enjoyed in freedom. Depending on the facility, local churches, community groups, or inmates themselves may donate food items like cookies and other treats to enhance the holiday experience.

However, the quality and type of food served can vary widely between different prisons. For many, the food provided for these holidays is far from ideal. The article What do prisoners typically eat on Thanksgiving and Christmas? highlights the stark contrast between prison fare and what is commonly enjoyed at home.

Contrast Between Prison and Regular Holiday Meals

In some prisons, the special dinners offered are still far from what one would expect to see at a typical Thanksgiving or Christmas feast. The article mentions that prisoners generally get special dinner[s]—ones that attempt to be as authentic to what we would expect to have for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner and freedom. Further, it is noted that in New Year's Eve, lights out are often before midnight, and there's a warning that making a noise at midnight will lead to a lockdown.

One perspective shared is that prisoners should not be given treats while they are incarcerated. The belief is that if they wanted to celebrate these holidays, they should have behaved well and been good citizens. This view shows a stark contrast with how holidays are celebrated outside of prison walls, where loved ones gather to share a meal and exchange gifts.

Despite this perspective, there are facilities where inmates are able to enjoy more lavish holiday meals. For example, in certain prison camps, inmates have worked in the kitchen and have experienced more authentic and enjoyable holiday dinners. At one camp, the author of the original article mentioned that the Thanksgiving and Christmas fare included:

Baked turkey Gravy Mashed potatoes Green beans Cornbread Corn on the cob Tater salad Mac and cheese

During their time at a fourth of July celebration in another camp, the author noted that they had the opportunity to grill chicken quarters and ribs, along with biscuits and plenty of delicious side dishes. While these meals are still far from the gourmet feasts enjoyed by people outside of prison, they offer some comfort and a semblance of normalcy during what can be a difficult time.

Conclusion

While holidays in prison may not match the ones celebrated outside, many inmates still find ways to enjoy a special meal that reminds them of home. The food served during Thanksgiving and Christmas can greatly impact how these holidays are experienced, bringing a sense of comfort and togetherness in an otherwise challenging environment.

The differences in holiday food between prisons and the outside world highlight the contrast between incarceration and freedom. Whether it's a simple meal or a more elaborate celebration, the desire for connection and connection through food remains a universal human trait.