If that trip home for Mom’s turkey isn’t on the cards this year, it doesn’t mean you can’t take time to celebrate. Why not host a non-traditional Thanksgiving at your place instead? From the invite list, menu and cocktail ideas, to creative décor tips and fun activities – our Guide To Throwing The Perfect Thanksgiving Party has all you need to help pull off the perfect gathering for Turkey Day.
It might sound like a cliché, but the holidays are all about opening your home to others - so remember, the more the merrier. If you can’t make it home be sure to round up any extended family members who live close-by.
Add a dash of friends, colleagues from work and any neighbors who might be at a loose end to the mix. Just remember to get the word out early so they don’t make plans or worse, spend Thanksgiving home alone.
For a twist on the traditional sit-down dinner, try a Pot Luck or Tasting Menu instead. Ask each person to bring one item from an agreed list. For the more organized, assign something specific to each guest – one person bring snacks to enjoy while watching the game, another can bring wine or a desert. You get the idea.
As host you should handle the main course, which will mean preparing a turkey and mashed potatoes. Check out hip new food blogs like Honestly Yum, as well websites like Epicurious and Bare Foot Contessa for some great recipe ideas. Serve the food buffet-style for a more laid back and relaxed vibe.
A nice IPA is usually a popular choice with the guys, you can balance this with a wheat beer, or seasonal ale option. For wine lovers, Chablis makes a nice alternative to the classic Chardonnay, while in the red corner you can never go wrong with Pinot Noir, but those looking for something more robust should be happy with a good Cabernet.
Get your home ready for company and have a good tidy up and cleaning session! Make sure the guest bathroom has soap and towels, and there’s space in the fridge for the surplus of extra food people will be bringing.
If you had your pumpkin fix at Halloween, put out some scented Holiday candles, and fresh-cut flowers instead for an instant festive, yet classy, touch. And if you want to get
seriously creative there are literally days of inspiration to be found on Pinterest
and places like Etsy!
Colored or themed paper plates, and dixie cups are another fun and inexpensive way to add a little flair to your Thanksgiving party, and cut down on the dishes later!
While the focal point of the party is enjoying a tasty meal together, you should also have a couple other activities up your sleeve for later in the day. A post meal outdoor stroll would be a nice touch, and help avoid the dreaded food coma.
Break out the poker chips and a deck of cards when you come back – a few rounds of Hold’em after dinner will keep the evening moving along nicely. In fact any good board game that gets people connected with a little team spirit, would be just as entertaining.
Images courtesy of Day Design Decor, Local Plate, Blog Lovin & Dandy Gadget.
Thanksgiving 2013 Party Ideas: A Guide To Throwing The Perfect Gathering
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