Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and feasting, but it can also feel like a chore to plan and execute. With the COVID-19 pandemic still looming, it’s more important than ever to find ways to make the holiday fun and enjoyable for everyone involved. In this article, we’ll explore some ideas for making Thanksgiving fun in 2020, from decorating and cooking to games and activities.
Creating a Festive Atmosphere
The key to a fun Thanksgiving celebration is creating a festive atmosphere that sets the tone for the day. This can be achieved through a combination of decorations, music, and delicious food. Start by decorating your home with fall-themed decorations, such as pumpkins, leaves, and cornucopias. You can also add some warm and cozy lighting, such as candles and string lights, to create a welcoming ambiance.
Decorating Ideas
When it comes to decorating for Thanksgiving, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
One idea is to create a fall-themed centerpiece for your dining table, complete with seasonal flowers, fruits, and vegetables. You can also add some personal touches, such as family photos and heirlooms, to make the space feel more intimate and meaningful.
Another idea is to get creative with pumpkins. You can carve them, paint them, or even use them as a base for a beautiful fall-themed arrangement. Whatever you choose, make sure it reflects your personal style and adds to the overall ambiance of the space.
Outdoor Decorations
Don’t forget to decorate the outside of your home as well. You can add some fall-themed doormats, wreaths, and garlands to create a warm and welcoming entrance. You can also string up some lights to illuminate the path and create a magical ambiance.
Cooking Up a Storm
Thanksgiving is all about the food, and cooking can be a fun and rewarding experience. Start by planning your menu and making a list of all the ingredients you’ll need. You can also get the kids involved by letting them help with simple tasks, such as measuring out ingredients or mixing batter.
Recipe Ideas
If you’re looking for some new and exciting recipe ideas, here are a few to consider:
- Turkey: Try deep-frying your turkey for a crispy and delicious exterior, or smoking it for a rich and savory flavor.
- Sides: Roasted vegetables are a great way to add some color and flavor to your plate, while homemade stuffing can be a fun and creative project.
- Desserts: Pumpkin pie is a classic Thanksgiving dessert, but you can also try apple crisp or pecan pie for a delicious and satisfying treat.
Games and Activities
Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to come together, and games and activities can be a great way to make the day more enjoyable. Plan some fun and engaging activities, such as board games, card games, or even a touch football game in the backyard.
DIY Crafts
Another idea is to get creative with DIY crafts. You can make handprint turkeys, fall-themed wreaths, or even homemade place cards to add a personal touch to your table setting.
Virtual Celebrations
With the COVID-19 pandemic still a concern, many people are opting for virtual celebrations this year. You can use video conferencing software to connect with loved ones who can’t be there in person, or share photos and updates on social media to keep everyone in the loop.
In conclusion, making Thanksgiving fun in 2020 requires a little creativity and planning, but the end result is well worth the effort. By decorating your home, cooking up a storm, and planning fun games and activities, you can create a memorable and enjoyable celebration that everyone will cherish. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or a combination of both, the most important thing is to make the day your own and have fun!
What are some unique ways to make Thanksgiving fun and memorable in 2020?
To make Thanksgiving fun and memorable in 2020, consider hosting a virtual dinner party for family and friends who cannot attend in person. This can be done using video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Google Meet. You can also plan some fun games and activities, such as a virtual scavenger hunt or a cooking competition, to keep everyone engaged and entertained. Additionally, you can ask each guest to share their favorite Thanksgiving tradition or recipe, which can help create a sense of community and connection.
Another idea is to get creative with your menu and try out some new and exciting recipes. You can find plenty of inspiration online, from traditional dishes with a twist to entirely new and innovative ideas. Consider adding some international flavors to your menu, such as Korean-style fried turkey or Mexican-inspired stuffing. You can also make the day more interactive by setting up a DIY food station, where guests can assemble their own dishes, such as a build-your-own-potato-bar or a create-your-own-pumpkin-pie-bar.
How can I make sure everyone feels included in the Thanksgiving celebration, especially if they have dietary restrictions?
To make sure everyone feels included in the Thanksgiving celebration, it’s essential to consider the dietary restrictions and preferences of your guests. Ask your guests about their dietary needs in advance, such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free, and plan your menu accordingly. You can also label each dish with its ingredients, so guests know what they can and cannot eat. Consider setting up a separate table or station with options that cater to specific dietary needs, such as a gluten-free dessert table or a vegan main course option.
By being considerate of your guests’ dietary restrictions, you can create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that makes everyone feel valued and appreciated. You can also involve your guests in the cooking process, asking them to bring a dish to share that fits their dietary needs. This can help create a sense of community and shared responsibility, and ensure that everyone has something they can enjoy. Additionally, be sure to have plenty of options for beverages, such as juices, sodas, and teas, to cater to different tastes and dietary requirements.
What are some fun and creative ways to involve kids in the Thanksgiving celebration?
There are many fun and creative ways to involve kids in the Thanksgiving celebration, such as assigning them simple cooking tasks, like mixing or measuring ingredients, or letting them help with decorating the table or creating a centerpiece. You can also set up a kids’ table with fun activities, such as making turkey-themed crafts, playing Thanksgiving-themed games, or watching a kid-friendly movie. Consider creating a “kid-friendly” menu, with dishes that are easy to eat and fun to make, such as mini pizzas or mac and cheese.
Another idea is to create a “Thankful Tree” where kids can write down things they are thankful for on leaves and hang them on a branches. This can help kids reflect on the true meaning of Thanksgiving and feel more connected to the celebration. You can also involve kids in the process of writing thank-you notes or making cards for family members, which can help them develop a sense of gratitude and appreciation. By involving kids in the celebration, you can create a fun and memorable experience that they will cherish for years to come.
How can I create a beautiful and festive Thanksgiving tablescape on a budget?
To create a beautiful and festive Thanksgiving tablescape on a budget, consider using items you already have at home, such as candles, vases, and linens. You can also get creative with natural elements, such as leaves, branches, and pinecones, to add a touch of autumnal charm to your table. Consider shopping at thrift stores or second-hand shops for unique and affordable decorative items, such as vintage china or glassware. You can also make your own decorations, such as a handmade centerpiece or a DIY garland, to add a personal touch to your table.
Another idea is to keep your tablescape simple and understated, focusing on a few statement pieces rather than trying to create an over-the-top display. Consider using a simple white or cream-colored tablecloth as a backdrop, and add a few pops of color with napkins, placemats, or a centerpiece. You can also repurpose items you already have, such as using a vintage suitcase as a decorative box or a mason jar as a vase. By being creative and resourceful, you can create a beautiful and festive Thanksgiving tablescape without breaking the bank.
What are some delicious and easy-to-make side dishes that are perfect for Thanksgiving?
There are many delicious and easy-to-make side dishes that are perfect for Thanksgiving, such as roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic glaze, or sweet potato casserole with marshmallows and pecans. Consider making a few classic dishes, such as green bean casserole or creamed spinach, which are easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. You can also try out some new and innovative recipes, such as maple-glazed carrots or cauliflower gratin, to add some excitement to your menu.
Another idea is to focus on simple, seasonal ingredients, such as roasted root vegetables or sautéed leafy greens, which can be prepared quickly and easily. Consider making a few dishes that can be prepared ahead of time, such as cranberry sauce or cornbread, to reduce stress and make the day more enjoyable. You can also involve your guests in the cooking process, asking them to bring a side dish to share, which can help create a sense of community and shared responsibility. By keeping your side dishes simple and delicious, you can create a memorable and enjoyable Thanksgiving celebration.
How can I make sure my Thanksgiving turkey is cooked to perfection and stays moist and juicy?
To make sure your Thanksgiving turkey is cooked to perfection and stays moist and juicy, consider brining it overnight in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. This can help add flavor and moisture to the meat, and reduce the risk of overcooking. You can also try rubbing the turkey with a mixture of butter, herbs, and spices, which can help create a crispy, golden-brown skin and add flavor to the meat. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey, which should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure food safety.
Another idea is to cook the turkey using a slow and low method, such as roasting it in the oven at a low temperature or using a slow cooker. This can help prevent the meat from drying out and promote even cooking. You can also try tenting the turkey with foil during cooking, which can help retain moisture and prevent overcooking. By following a few simple tips and techniques, you can create a delicious and memorable Thanksgiving turkey that will be the centerpiece of your celebration. Be sure to let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving, which can help the juices redistribute and the meat stay moist and tender.