Thanksgiving Parties

Elements of Thanksgiving Parties

Any party, no matter what occasion, has certain features that make it a celebration. For Thanksgiving events, the most important feature is undoubtedly food, since most parties for this holiday are organized around the central meal. For a successful event, however, the other elements must not be neglected.

Food

For many people, Thanksgiving is a holiday of indulgence and comfort food, from the golden roasted turkey to the creamy pumpkin pie. The best way to organize food for Thanksgiving parties is to list all the “classic” Thanksgiving foods, but hosts must remember that not everyone enjoys the same foods. When planning a Thanksgiving menu:

• Ask about guests’ dietary needs, including vegetarian preferences, diabetic requirements, or allergies. Because the meal is a focal point of the event, a guest will feel left out if they cannot participate in several dishes because of their diet.
• Offer nontraditional alternatives. Though pumpkin pie may be the most popular dessert, some guests may not care for the treat and would prefer apple, pecan, or chocolate pie instead. Unique dishes also give guests more opportunity to sample different delicious foods.
• Provide extra side dishes. While a single family may only have two or three sides with Thanksgiving dinner, inviting more people for a party requires additional food. With a greater variety of dishes, guests have more options if their favorites are quickly consumed.
• Ask about guests’ traditions. Many people prepare certain dishes only on holidays, and by including those items for your guests, you honor their presence with more than just an invitation.

Because food is one of the most expensive aspects of a party, many hosts opt for a potluck approach and have guests bring a side dish or dessert. This is an economical and practical approach, because it also allows guests to include their favorite or traditional dishes. To help guests prepare properly, however, be sure they know how many people are expected at the party and whether or not there are any vital dietary needs that should be addressed with each dish.

Decorations

A simple centerpiece can demonstrate seasonal bounty.

Neither a holiday nor a party is complete without decorations. Thanksgiving parties often feature a grand centerpiece on the dining table, with a food, harvest, or fall theme. Cornucopias are popular centerpiece items, as are fall floral bouquets, turkeys, and autumn-colored candle arrangements. Be sure a centerpiece does not make passing dishes or conversation difficult, and is should be set up so every guest can appreciate it no matter where they sit.

Other decoration ideas for Thanksgiving parties include:

• Autumn colored linens – napkins, tablecloth, etc. – in dark shades of orange, yellow, brown, or red.
• Pilgrim and Native American themed items, such as salt-and-pepper shakers or figurines.
• Autumn garlands along banisters or surrounding doorways.
• Scented candles in related aromas: pumpkin spice, cinnamon, vanilla, and apple are popular choices.

Activities

At most Thanksgiving parties, the meal is the central activity. Not all hosts choose to have a big meal, however, and parties are opportunities for guests to interact and enjoy one another’s company. Because Thanksgiving is the beginning of the winter and Christmas holiday season, activities can focus on welcoming that spirit of joy and celebration. Activities can include:

• Watching the traditional Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
• Watching football or playing a family football game.
• Sharing why each person is thankful this year.
• Exchanging holiday gifts, particularly for families and friends that will not be together at Christmas.
• Preparing Christmas gift lists or children’s letters to Santa.
• Family reunion activities, since many extended families celebrate together each year.
• Decorating a Christmas tree or stringing outdoor lights.

Because Thanksgiving is a holiday to be grateful for the blessings you’ve received, many people choose activities to share that bounty, including:

• Visiting a soup kitchen or homeless shelter to volunteer.
• Gathering donations for shelters or special causes.
• Volunteering to help a neighbor, such as shoveling snow or doing other chores that may be difficult for them.

Invitations

No party can be a success if people don’t know when it is scheduled. Invitations for Thanksgiving parties usually focus on turkeys, pilgrims, or harvest items such as corn stalks or pumpkins. For a creative approach, consider having children create 5-fingered turkeys (drawing around their own hands) on construction paper or use die-cuts for a shaped invitation rather than a plain card. A drop or two of scented oil can make a great impact on an invitation, particularly by using a food scent that offers a preview of the meal.

Always be sure to include all the critical information on an invitation, including time, location, specific attire (if necessary, for example, for playing football), whether or not guests should bring a dish to share, and any other special considerations.

Alternative Thanksgiving Parties

Some people would rather host a party without food as the focal point, and there are many options for Thanksgiving events that do not incorporate a meal. Setting the party later in the evening and serving appetizers is one alternative, or offering an earlier party focusing on volunteer work or other activities is another. Because many people expect Thanksgiving events to involve that meal, however, be sure to specify what guests can expect at your event so they are not disappointed or misled.

Celebrating Among Friends and Family

The best part about Thanksgiving parties is the opportunity to celebrate a traditional holiday among family and friends. While there may be personality conflicts and unresolved issues, it is important to remember the spirit of the occasion and set those differences aside. Being thankful for all life’s blessings – good food, good company, and the best events of the preceding year – is the key to a successful party, no matter what foods or activities may be a part of it.

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