Start a New Thanksgiving Tradition at Home

Are you looking to shake things up a little this Thanksgiving? The last two years have certainly been a challenge, and putting a fresh spin on the holiday can be just the ticket to re-energize your holiday gatherings. We’ve gathered a collection of some of our favorite unique traditions to share with you. We think that these ideas can be a fun way to celebrate the season and have you feeling more grateful than ever.

Create a thankful table

It’s fun to give your guests something to do while you’re making all your last-minute meal preparations. So instead of using your regular fabric tablecloth this year, roll out a long sheet of craft paper instead. Then give your guests pens and markers to write down what they’re thankful for. It’s something you can keep and look back on fondly in years to come.

Make an interactive centerpiece

Collect a few branches from outside and place them in a vase in the center of your Thanksgiving table. Then give your guests little cards with strings attached. Ask them to write down what they wish for in the coming year. They can then hang them from the branches. It will create a beautiful centerpiece and can be a wonderful conversation starter.

Have a virtual happy hour

One silver lining of the pandemic is that it forced us to find new ways to connect virtually. Even though you may be hosting an in-person event this year, schedule a virtual happy hour so those that can’t make it can still enjoy the time together. You can schedule it before or after the meal – or even during the meal so you can all eat together!

Collect donations

This is the season of giving, so why not extend that to your own Thanksgiving celebration? Invite your guests to bring a canned good or other non-perishable items that can be donated to a local food pantry. Or raise money for your favorite charity.

Try a new recipe

Everybody loves the staples of the Thanksgiving table and have come to expect turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and all the fixings. Why not mix things up a little by trying out a new dish this year? It can be something that reminds you of a loved one or that makes you feel tied to your family’s history. Share the recipe with your guests so they can recreate it at home.

Take a walk

Instead of plopping down in front of the TV after dinner and watching football, why not take a walk? It’s a wonderful way to work off some of those Thanksgiving calories and gives you a chance to connect with all your guests. When you come back home you’ll be ready for dessert.

Take a group photo

Finally, keep a lasting memory from your Thanksgiving celebration by taking a group photo. You can make it even more fun by providing fun costume pieces or even matching t-shirts that your guests can take home with them.

Compliments of Virtual Results