Are you hosting turkey day this year? If so, it’s time to kick off your planning. You’ll want to secure your turkey before they fly off the shelves and get a headcount so you can choose the right size bird for your gathering. Are you considering trying something new this year? Make sure you have all the necessary tools to pull off your culinary vision!

At our house, Thanksgiving is a cherished tradition that can include not just immediate family, but friends and neighbors. We love to extend our invitation to those who might be spending the holiday away from their own families.

We enjoy mixing things up each year, especially when it comes to cooking the turkey. Our approach varies from year to year, allowing us to keep the celebration fresh and exciting. One of my all-time favorites is the Best Thanksgiving Turkey recipe from Our Best Bites. Last year, we took a bold step and prepared our turkey Porchetta-Style (you can find the recipe here) – it was a hit!

To stay organized, be sure to start your Holiday Menu Planner in the Celebrations section of your Christmas Planner. This tool will help you keep track of who’s coming, what activities you have planned, and, of course, your menu. Don’t forget to delegate dishes to your guests! Opting for a potluck-style dinner can significantly ease your workload.

I also want to share a fun twist we tried last year. Instead of serving cranberries as a side dish, I made a Cranberry Cobbler with Brown Sugar Pecan Crust for dessert. It was a delicious change, though we still had the traditional cranberry sauce on the table (I was gently outvoted!). This easy recipe has quickly become a staple in our holiday menu, and I can’t wait to make it again.

So, as you gear up for Thanksgiving, remember that planning ahead will make all the difference. Embrace the traditions, but don’t hesitate to add your unique flair to the festivities. Happy planning!