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How to Host an Unforgettable Thanksgiving!

11/12/2024

Thanksgiving: the glorious day where we gather with loved ones, devour an ungodly amount of food, and create memories that last longer than the leftovers. Whether you’re a hosting newbie or a seasoned pro, here are some tips from our family to yours on how to prepare the ultimate Thanksgiving celebration. We’ve got hosting favorites, activities to bring EVERYONE together, and some reminders we’ve learned over the years. Because, let’s face it, we’re a family board game company, and we know a thing or two about fun!

Ready to Get the Party Started?

As experts in all things FUN, we’ve got some games and activities to spice up your Thanksgiving.These will keep the atmosphere lively, the gratitude flowing, and the energy high. Let's dive into some ways to make your gathering unforgettable!

Funscripted

Nothing breaks the ice and sparks conversation quite like Funscripted! Picture this: your uncle, the one who insists on talking politics, suddenly talking like a pirate. Yes, you read that right. With hilarious conversation starters, insane challenges, and goofy rules, Funscripted brings the whole table together laughing and connecting. Want to keep the conversation raging? Try asking, “If the apocalypse happened and we had to restart from the ground up, what would each person at the table’s job be?” Trust us, there won’t be a moment of awkward silence during this game—only the sound of laughter and maybe some pirate jargon.

Buy now at Amazon: https://a.co/d/0YqIiHO‍‍

Mind The Gap

So, dinner ends. Now what? It’s time for the after-dinner-winner: Mind The Gap! It’s the trivia game for EVERY generation, from Grandpa’s golden oldies to your 14-year-old cousin’s TikTok trends. It bridges generational gaps, ensuring no one feels left out. With engaging trivia and fun challenges, Mind The Gap is sure to be a hit! By incorporating board games into your Thanksgiving festivities, you’re not just adding entertainment; you’re fostering connections and creating cherished memories. So, gather your loved ones, pull out Mind The Gap, ignore the TV remote, and let the games begin! 

Buy now at Amazon: https://a.co/d/1oRg0dp 

Thankfulness List

We have to keep the focus on the main thing Thanksgiving: it’s all about thankfulness! This activity will be sure to get people thinking about things they are grateful for, big and small. Grab a block of butcher paper and some tape!

  • Cut a long sheet of butcher paper and hang it in a highly trafficked area of your home. 
  • At the top, write “I’m thankful for.”
  • Tape a marker next to the sign, so guests can share their gratitude throughout the day.
  • During dinner, it would be fun to read through everything and stir up a spirit of gratitude!

Let’s Start With the Decor!

Set the stage for a warm and welcoming Thanksgiving. Decorate your space with autumn-themed decor, and create a cozy atmosphere with soft lighting, fall-scented candles, and plenty of comfortable seating. Here are some of our favorite decor go-to’s:

  • Hit up the thrift store, T.J.Maxx, Home Goods, or any other decor store for an amazing, budget-friendly selection of fall-themed decorations. Consider buying a fall-toned table cloth or other small decor pieces to set the vibe!
  • Grab some 99 cent taper candles from Walmart and some holders. Time to create that mood lighting we all love!
  • Incorporate some nature! Take a walk outside and find some pinecones to make adorable DIY table settings. Or head to the pumpkin patch to grab some mini pumpkins that work as a great, colorful table centerpiece.
  • Incorporate some nature! Take a walk outside and find some pinecones to make adorable DIY table settings. Or head to the pumpkin patch to grab some mini pumpkins that work as a great, colorful table centerpiece.
  • Don’t be afraid of disposable plates! So many stores carry a beautiful, high-quality selection of paper goods that save a ton of time on cleaning up after the big meal. Your future self might thank you for it!
  • Don’t feel the pressure to spend a lot of money to create the perfect space; your home will be great, no matter the budget!

6 Tips Before Hosting Thanksgiving!

We all know how much goes into preparing for that one day! Here’s a little assistance with all the details. Hosting Thanksgiving can be both exciting and a bit (or, a lot) overwhelming, so having a checklist of reminders can help ensure everything goes smoothly. Here are some key reminders for Thanksgiving hosts:

1. Plan Your Menu Early: Decide on the dishes you'll be serving and make a shopping list. Consider dietary restrictions and preferences of your guests. Also, shop early enough so that stores don’t run out. Surprisingly, whole turkeys are only available during this time!

2. Prep Ahead: Prepare as much as you can in advance. Chop vegetables, bake desserts—anything you can do to reduce stress on the day itself is key. This will also allow you to be present with your friends and family.

3. Set the Table the Night Before: Arrange your table settings, including plates, utensils, glasses, and napkins, the night before to save time. This is usually one of the last things people do. Do it early, and you can forget about it later.

4. Create a Cooking Schedule: Plan out the timing for each dish to ensure everything is hot and ready at the same time. Don't forget to account for turkey resting time!

5. Plan for Leftovers: Have containers ready for guests to take home leftovers, or plan creative ways to use them in the days following Thanksgiving. Everyone will appreciate getting to take a little bit extra home.

6. Take Time to Enjoy: Remember to relax and enjoy the day with your loved ones. It's easy to get caught up in hosting duties, but the heart of Thanksgiving is about being together. You only get one Thanksgiving each year, so soak it in!

As you prepare to host Thanksgiving, remember what the holiday is all about: gratitude and togetherness. While the delicious food and festive decorations set the stage, it's the laughter, shared stories, and connections with loved ones that truly make the day memorable. Embrace the joyful chaos. Here's to a Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories. Happy hosting!