7 Tips for a Terrific Turkey Day
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories with loved ones. But between planning, cooking, and hosting, it can easily feel overwhelming. Whether you’re hosting your first Thanksgiving dinner or you’re a seasoned pro, these tips will help you enjoy a holiday filled with gratitude, laughter, and delicious food—no matter what’s on the menu. Keep reading for our seven tips for a terrific turkey day:
Plan your menu early
Avoid last-minute stress by planning your Thanksgiving menu a week or two in advance. Decide on your turkey (or main dish), sides, and desserts so you can shop ahead and avoid the holiday rush. Consider making a grocery list on your phone so you have it handy when you hit the grocery store.
Delegate dishes
Hosting doesn’t mean you have to do it all. Divide up the work and ask guests to bring a favorite side dish, appetizer, or dessert. This not only lightens your workload but also creates a great opportunity to try new recipes.
Prep ahead of time
Many parts of your Thanksgiving meal can be prepped ahead of time. Chop veggies, brine your turkey, bake pies, or set the table the night before. The more you prepare in advance, the more relaxed you’ll feel on Thanksgiving Day.
Don’t forget the drinks
Pair your meal with festive beverages. Think apple cider, mulled wine, or a signature Thanksgiving cocktail. For kid-friendly non-alcoholic options, try cranberry gingerale or sparkling water with cranberries for a fun and trendy option.
Focus on gratitude
Thanksgiving is about, well, being thankful. During your gathering, take a moment to go around the table and have each person share something they’re thankful for. It’s a simple way to pause and reflect, making the day more meaningful.
Add a fun tradition
Start a new family tradition, like a group walk after dinner, trying a new board game, or watching a favorite Thanksgiving movie together. Traditions help make the day memorable year after year and can be a fun way to get everyone involved.
Send guests home with leftovers
Thanksgiving meals usually mean leftovers—and a lot of them. Invite your guests to share in the bounty and bring their own containers to dinner to take home some of the extras. It reduces waste, saves room in your fridge, and gives everyone something to enjoy for days to come.
With a little planning and teamwork, you can host a Thanksgiving that’s both joyful and stress-free. Remember, the heart of the holiday isn’t just the turkey and pie—it’s the people gathered around your table.
From thrilling reads to epic eats, from play to going away, Westshore Town Centre offers something for the entire (read: busy!) family. Situated in the City of Langford, Westshore Town Centre’s convenient location, along with numerous retailers, such as Mastermind Toys, Winners/Homesense, and Cobs Bread, allows for the quick and easy completion of one’s daily “to do” list, including getting everything you need to try a new recipe. We’ve got you covered. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on everything WTC-related!