A Cozy Lifestyle with Clearissa Coward
How To Prepare For A Stress-Free Thanksgiving
Preparing for Thanksgiving can be a fun but busy time, especially if you’re hosting or playing a big role in family gatherings. Here’s a guide to help you get organized and ready for a stress-free (let’s be real, there is no such thing as a stress-free holiday but we can be less stressed) holiday: How To Prepare For A Stress-Free Thanksgiving.
- Plan the Menu
- Traditional Dishes: Turkey, dressing, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, gravy, sweet potato pie, and red velvet cake are common. Plan side dishes and desserts based on preferences.
- Dietary Restrictions: Ensure you consider any guests who are vegan, gluten-free or have allergies.
- Assign Dishes: If it is a potluck-style Thanksgiving, coordinate with guests about what they are bringing. Try to determine this at least a month in advance.
- Shopping List
- Make a detailed list based on your menu. Do not forget staples like butter, spices, and beverages.
- Buy non-perishable items early (like canned pumpkin or cranberries) to avoid last-minute shortages.
- For perishable items like fresh produce or turkey, plan to buy them a few days before Thanksgiving.
- Prep Ahead of Time
- 1-2 Weeks Before:
- Clean your house if you’re hosting.
- Finalize your guest list and send reminders.
- Decorate your home, or buy/prepare centerpieces and table settings.
- 3-5 Days Before:
- Thaw the turkey in the fridge (this can take several days depending on its size).
- Prepare pie crusts, dough, or other baked items and freeze them.
- Chop veggies or assemble casseroles that can be stored.
- 1-2 Days Before:
- Set the table or create seating arrangements.
- Prepare desserts or anything that can be served cold or reheated.
- Day of Thanksgiving
- Turkey Time: Start cooking the turkey early in the day. The cooking time varies based on size—plan for about 15-20 minutes per pound.
- Multitask: As the turkey cooks, finish up your side dishes.
- Timing: Try to have all hot dishes ready to serve at the same time. This is important because you don’t want cold mashed potatoes ever.
- Relax: Set some time to relax with family or guests before dinner is served.
- Decor and Atmosphere
- Set the Table: Use fall-themed decor, including candles, pumpkins, and warm-colored tablecloths.
- Ambiance: Play soft background music or set up a cozy atmosphere with dim lighting.
- Games/Activities: Consider activities like sharing what you are thankful for, watching a Thanksgiving parade or football game, or playing board games. Family time is the best part of the holiday season.
- Post-Dinner Plans
- Prepare for leftovers. Have containers ready to store food or send some home with guests. The Dollar Tree is a great place to purchase carry-out containers,
- Clean as you go during the day to minimize post-meal cleanup.
- Relax and enjoy dessert with coffee or tea.
Don’t forget to savor the moments, embrace the imperfections, and celebrate the joy of being together. With a little planning and a lot of heart, you will be ready to enjoy a Thanksgiving that is both meaningful and memorable.
Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🍂
Hugs & Blessings,
This is the best guide I’ve seen for Thanksgiving preparations. Everyone should save this for future reference. You are the organizing queen!
You are so sweet. Thank you so much for your continued support.
Thank you so much for sharing. I’m hosting this year and this gives my brain visual of how I need to prepare. I love a good timeline.
Hi Tammie. I am so happy the timeline is helpful to you. As an organization enthusiast, I need a good list for almost everything. 🙂 Since you’re hosting, now is the time to begin. Have a blessed holiday.