Thanksgiving is usually the time of year where the family—immediate, distant, chosen members—come together to celebrate one another and all that they’re thankful for. Since we are still experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic aftereffect it will surely change how we gather this year, though, the highly celebrated Holiday will look different for most households.
For many, kitchens, living rooms, and hallways that are usually flooded with family members will be a bit quieter as this year brings about a more intimate experience that’s, well, a little forced upon us. We get it: It may seem a bit somber to go from having a large crowd at your home to hosting an intimate gathering of three or four. But you can flip the script: Now’s actually the perfect time to create new memories and long-lasting traditions, and perhaps you can come up with some money-saving options to pass down for years to come. And with the unpredictability of the world right now, who wouldn’t want that?
So, if you’re looking for a way to downscale this Thanksgiving holiday (or if you’re just looking for some new traditions to implement), here are eight ideas for a small Thanksgiving to try out this year.
Have a set menu—with just five items.
This year has brought about a million situations that require you to develop a “new normal.” When Thanksgiving rolls around, that could mean not indulging in such an overflowing spread of food; it’s just not necessary. Keeping your menu restricted to five items—maybe they’re your classic main dish, your two favorite sides, and your two most delicious desserts—can trim the amount of money spent. Plus, you’ll be left with a manageable amount of leftovers instead of heaps that’ll eventually go bad and need to be tossed.
Opt for a Thanksgiving brunch.
Tired of the typical Thanksgiving food lineup? Or maybe you just want to open up your day and create new traditions with those closest to you. Try making a Thanksgiving brunch instead. This works especially well for essential workers who won’t be able to be home with the family for dinner or for families with kids who’ll be all out of sorts by evening. Your menu can consist of easy-to-make items that still feel festive, like French toast, omelets, bacon, or sausage, or you can go all out and make your regular holiday line-up…just a little earlier. Whichever option you choose, you can create a satisfyingly delicious brunch menu that will cater to everyone on your guest list’s palate.
Order Thanksgiving Meal from a local business.
Cringing at the thought of cooking Thanksgiving dinner, like, at all? Then use this holiday season as a way to support local small businesses near you. Due to the ongoing pandemic, many of them have had to find new ways to stay afloat. Take advantage of the fact that this is one of the most lucrative times for many spots, so purchasing the dinner options that one of your local restaurants is offering can be a great way to offer support to your community and take away the stress and anxiousness that cooking may give you. Be sure to keep an eye out for announcements from your favorite restaurants.
Should you want to go outside to celebrate, you don’t have to worry because there are safe ways to do this. Pack up your food in to-go containers, choose a scenic location, and enjoy dinner while getting a bit of fresh air. Head to a beach or a park, if you live in a warm-weather location. If you will just spend Thanksgiving with one other person you can park your car in front of a scenic outlook, blast the heat, and eat in the front seats of your car! You’ll get the opportunity to experience something new with the people you love the most—even if you revert to your normal gatherings in years to come.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
