On Thursday, November 25, 2021, the Ludlow Lions went head to head with the Palmer Panthers in the 73rd annual Thanksgiving Day football game. The game included halftime performances from both Ludlow and Palmer’s marching bands. This year, the Thanksgiving Day game took place at Legion Field in Palmer — an away game for Ludlow. The game resulted in a win for Palmer with a score of 34-0.

The Thanksgiving Day game marks the rekindling of a 73-year tradition after a break due to the pandemic. Many students expressed excitement at the thought of holding the game again. The tradition began in 1947 when Ludlow defeated Palmer 14-7.

During the halftime show, the Ludlow marching band presented three songs, including “Twist and Shout” by The Beatles, “Paranoid” by Black Sabbath, and “YMCA” by The Village People. The Ludlow cheer team performed in front of the band as they played. Palmer presented selections by Katy Perry for their part of the halftime show.

Despite Ludlow’s loss at this year’s game, players hope that the tradition will carry on for years to come.