How to organize a simple and cozy Thanksgiving party at home.

Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings, enjoying turkey and mashed potatoes together, and sharing gratitude. This article guides you on how to organize a simple and cozy Thanksgiving party at home , from preparing the menu and decorating the table to creating a joyful atmosphere.

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Cách tổ chức tiệc Thanksgiving đơn giản và ấm cúng tại nhà-Tiptory

Thanksgiving is a time for families to gather, express gratitude, and enjoy a warm and cozy meal together. If you're looking to host a truly memorable Thanksgiving – from preparing the food and decorating the table to creating a joyful atmosphere – this article will help you quickly grasp the most important steps. Practical tips from chef and culinary expert Ollie George Cigliano will also give you the confidence to prepare a delicious, well-organized, and emotionally fulfilling feast.

Things to do on Thanksgiving Day

1. Share a traditional dinner with your family.

  • This is the most important activity on Thanksgiving Day.

  • You can prepare turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and other traditional dishes.

  • The intimate atmosphere made the party feel warm and truly in the spirit of Thanksgiving.

2. Play the wishbone game.

  • After finishing the turkey, the two of them held the ends of the sternum in a V-shape.

  • Whoever breaks off the larger piece will "get their wish granted."

  • This is a fun activity with a long-standing tradition.

3. Watch American football games on the holiday.

  • American football is closely associated with Thanksgiving culture in the United States.

  • You can watch it with your family to create a lively atmosphere.

  • This activity is often maintained annually by many families.

4. Share what you are grateful for this year.

  • Each person shared something they cherished or were grateful for.

  • It creates a sense of connection and adds meaning to the evening atmosphere.

  • This activity also helps young children understand the true meaning of Thanksgiving.

5. Play group games after dinner.

  • You can choose board games, Uno, word guessing, or simple team-building games.

  • Relaxing activities help make the party more enjoyable and bring people together.

  • Suitable for all ages, easy to do at home.

6. Participate in local volunteer activities.

  • Register for assistance at shelters, soup kitchens, or food banks.

  • This is a way to spread the spirit of gratitude and sharing during the holidays.

  • This activity is becoming increasingly popular among families.

7. Watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

  • This is a signature Thanksgiving program, broadcast on American television.

  • You can watch it online to experience the vibrant festive atmosphere.

  • The performances and the giant hot air balloon models always attract the audience.

Part 1: Simple Thanksgiving Preparations in Vietnam

Step 1: How to invite friends and family to a Thanksgiving party

1. Send out invitations 4 to 6 weeks in advance.

  • Make a list of friends you'd like to have a Thanksgiving party with.

  • Send out invitations at least one month in advance, ideally four to six weeks.

  • Guests from distant locations should be notified as soon as possible to allow them time to arrange their travel.

2. Choose the appropriate invitation sending method.

  • You can send a handwritten letter, text message, or make a phone call, depending on how close you are.

  • Prioritize communication methods that receive a quick response from the recipient to easily close deals.

3. Add an RSVP requirement to accurately estimate the number of participants.

  • Clearly state the response date (RSVP by date) in the invitation.

  • Ask about food allergies or special dietary requirements beforehand to prepare a suitable menu for Thanksgiving.

  • Make it clear that guests can bring friends or family to avoid a shortage of seating or food.

4. Seek advice from culinary experts.

  • With over 20 years of experience combining traditional and innovative cooking techniques, Chef Ollie George Cigliano encourages preparing your guest list and sending out invitations early to ensure your party runs smoothly and without any rush.

Step 2: Choose a potluck style to prepare a quicker and easier Thanksgiving party.

1. Organize a potluck-style party when you have many guests.

  • Potluck helps reduce your cooking workload when each guest brings a dish.

  • Discuss beforehand what they would like to contribute and create a list to avoid duplication.

  • You can suggest different categories of dishes such as salads, drinks, desserts, or appetizers.

2. The host usually prepares the turkey as the main course.

  • In most potluck Thanksgiving parties, the host is responsible for roasting the turkey.

  • This is the centerpiece of the banquet and requires the organizer to ensure it's cooked on time, tastes good, and is presented correctly.

3. Use a shared registration form to manage food orders.

  • Create a Google Sheets spreadsheet so everyone can list what they'll be bringing.

  • Alternatively, use a menu sharing app like Partiful to keep guests updated on menu items.

  • This helps you get an overall picture of the party and add any missing dishes to ensure the table is complete and balanced.

Step 3: Buy turkey early to ensure availability and the right size.

1. Proactively choose the right time to buy turkey.

  • If you're using frozen turkey , you can buy it anytime in October or November, as long as there's space in your freezer.

  • For fresh turkey , it's best to buy it no more than two days before cooking to preserve its flavor.

  • If ordering from a local farm or specialty store , place your order 2–3 weeks in advance to ensure you get the correct size you need.

  • When you bring a turkey home, put it in the freezer immediately for safe preservation.

2. Choose the turkey size according to the number of guests.

  • A turkey weighing approximately 12 pounds (190 ounces) is suitable for 10–15 people.

  • A turkey weighing around 16 pounds (260 ounces) is a good choice if you have 15 or more guests.

  • Choosing the right size helps you prepare appropriate portions and avoid waste at Thanksgiving.

Step 4: Make a shopping list and prepare ingredients in advance.

1. Make a food list 1–2 weeks in advance.

  • After finalizing your Thanksgiving menu, make sure to list all the ingredients you need to buy for each dish.

  • Prioritize purchasing essential ingredients early, such as butter, broth, spices, heavy cream, cooking wine, and other ingredients used in various dishes.

  • Going to the supermarket early helps you avoid shortages closer to the holidays.

2. Divide the time frame for purchasing ingredients to optimize storage.

  • Dry ingredients : purchase 1–2 weeks in advance, as they have a longer shelf life and are less prone to spoilage.

  • Fresh ingredients : purchase 5–7 days in advance to maintain freshness, especially vegetables, meat, and dairy products.

  • Preparing early significantly reduces the pressure of last-minute grocery shopping – one of the most common causes of stress when organizing a Thanksgiving party.

3. Classic Thanksgiving dishes

  • Turkey or cold cuts

  • Cranberry sauce

  • Baked sweet potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes

  • Stir-fried green beans or green bean casserole

  • Mash

  • Gravy sauce

  • Turkey stuffing

  • Bread rolls or cornbread

  • Pumpkin pie or pecan pie

Part 2: Traditional Thanksgiving Menus That Are Easy to Cook at Home

Step 1: Thaw the turkey early and roast it on Thanksgiving Day.

1. Thaw the turkey about 3 days in advance.

  • According to culinary expert Ollie George Cigliano, frozen turkey needs 3 days in the refrigerator to thaw safely.

  • Place the chicken in a tray or container to prevent the melted juices from making a mess in the refrigerator.

  • Proper thawing time ensures the meat cooks evenly and retains its juiciness when grilled.

2. Prepare the turkey on Thanksgiving morning.

  • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) .

  • Place the thawed turkey in a high-sided baking tray.

  • Prepare the marinade mixture as follows:

    • 3/4 cup (180 ml) olive oil

    • 2 tablespoons garlic powder

    • 2 teaspoons of dried basil

    • 1 teaspoon of sage and salt

    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • Spread the mixture evenly over the entire surface of the turkey.

  • Pour 2 cups (470 ml) of water into the bottom of the baking tray to maintain moisture during baking.

3. Cover and roast the turkey until it meets food safety standards.

  • Cover the tray with a lid or two layers of specialized aluminum foil to retain moisture.

  • Bake for approximately 3.5 hours , or until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 180°F (82°C) .

  • Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature — this is the simplest way to ensure the meat is cooked safely and doesn't dry out.

4. Let the chicken rest before butchering.

  • After removing the chicken from the oven, let it sit for 15 minutes before cutting.

  • Cigliano explains that this step helps retain the juices inside the meat, making it more tender and flavorful when served.

Step 2: Grill the ham for the Thanksgiving party.

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the meat before grilling.

  • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) or according to the instructions on the package.

  • Place the ham on a baking sheet, cut side down , then cover with a thick layer of aluminum foil to retain moisture.

  • Bake until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) .

  • Recommended baking times:

    • Cooked ham : 10 minutes per pound.

    • Ham cooked to medium rare : 20 minutes per pound.

2. Score the surface of the ham if you want to create a beautiful glaze.

  • Before placing it in the oven, use a sharp knife to lightly score the outside of the ham with small X marks.

  • According to expert Ollie George Cigliano, this scoring method helps the fat drain evenly, resulting in a glossy outer skin and a richer flavor when grilled.

3. Make your own glaze to brush onto the ham while grilling.

  • Mix well:

    • 1/2 cup (120 ml) brown sugar

    • 1/2 cup mango chutney

    • 3 cloves of minced garlic

    • 2 teaspoons grated orange peel

    • 1/8 cup (30 ml) orange juice

    • 1/4 cup (59 ml) Dijon mustard

  • Brush the ham with glaze every 20 minutes while grilling.

  • Remove the foil at the last 5 minutes to allow the surface to caramelize beautifully.

Step 3: Make cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving.

1. Cook cranberries with sugar and balsamic vinegar.

  • Add 12 ounces (0.75 lb) of cranberries to the pot.

  • Add 1/2 cup (120 ml) of sugar and 1/2 cup (120 ml) of balsamic vinegar .

  • Set the stove to medium-high heat and bring to a boil for about 8 minutes , stirring gently to soften the fruit and ensure it pops evenly.

2. Add seasonings and reduce heat to thicken the sauce.

  • Put it in the pot:

    • 1 teaspoon nutmeg

    • 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

    • 1 teaspoon cumin

    • 1 teaspoon of pepper

  • Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring until the mixture thickens.

  • Season with salt to taste, then turn off the heat.

3. Allow to cool and store properly.

  • Let the pot rest for 10 minutes to allow the sauce to cool down.

  • Once the sauce has completely cooled, transfer it to a container and refrigerate until ready to use.

4. Choose your preferred viscosity.

  • According to culinary expert Ollie George Cigliano:

    • If you prefer a thinner and warmer sauce , serve it immediately after cooking.

    • If you prefer a consistency similar to canned sauce , cover tightly and refrigerate overnight to allow the sauce to solidify naturally.

Step 4: Make mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving.

1. Prepare and boil the potatoes.

  • Wash, peel, and chop 8–10 potatoes .

  • Boil 4 quarts of salted water in a large pot.

  • Add the potatoes and boil until tender; they are done when easily pierced with a fork.

  • Turn off the heat, drain the water, and let the potatoes rest for about 3 minutes to cool down.

2. Mash the potatoes to the desired consistency.

  • Use a fork or potato masher to mash the potato until smooth.

  • Add:

    • 2/3 cup (160 ml) milk

    • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) butter

    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

    • Salt to taste

  • Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and homogeneous.

3. Proper storage and reheating

  • Place the mashed potatoes in a container that can be heated in the oven.

  • Cover tightly and refrigerate if you want to prepare it in advance.

  • When ready to serve, as suggested by expert Ollie George Cigliano, bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30–35 minutes to ensure the potatoes are evenly heated without drying out.

Step 5: Prepare the stuffing for Thanksgiving.

1. Prepare the bread and base ingredients.

  • Cut a loaf of cooled, slightly firm white or whole-wheat bread into 0.5-inch (1.3 cm) squares.

  • Place a large pot on the stove and turn the heat to medium.

  • Add 3/4 cup (180 ml) of butter to a saucepan and let it melt.

  • Add 1 chopped onion and 4 chopped celery stalks , sauté for 5–8 minutes until softened.

  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Mix the bread with the broth to make stuffing.

  • Add the sliced ​​bread to the pot and stir gently to coat it with butter and seasoning.

  • Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) of chicken broth and mix well so the bread softens but doesn't become soggy.

  • Transfer the entire mixture into a greased or buttered baking pan.

3. Grill the stuffing until golden brown and fragrant.

  • Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30–40 minutes , or until the top is slightly crispy and the inside is tender.

  • If prepared in advance, you can reheat the stuffing in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for an additional 5–10 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Order fresh cakes for Thanksgiving.

1. Choose a traditional cake that suits the party.

  • The most popular types of cakes served during Thanksgiving include:

    • Pumpkin pie

    • Pecan pie

    • Apple pie, cherry pie

    • Chocolate cake

  • These are all classic desserts, easy to incorporate into a Thanksgiving menu and suitable for many people's tastes.

2. Order your cake 1–2 weeks in advance to avoid it selling out.

  • You can order cakes from a local bakery, convenience store, or supermarket.

  • Ordering early ensures you get the exact type and size of cake you want.

  • Please pick up your cakes 1–2 days in advance to ensure freshness.

3. Reheat the bread according to the instructions before serving.

  • Each type of cake usually has reheating instructions on the packaging.

  • Proper heating results in a lightly crispy crust and a softer, more flavorful filling.

4. Bake your own cake if you want to experience tradition.

  • You can make your own pumpkin pie or pecan pie at home to add a personal touch and create a warm family atmosphere.

  • This is suitable for those who want to save money or enjoy cooking.

5. Prepare some Thanksgiving-themed cookies.

  • Cookies shaped like maple leaves, turkeys, pumpkins, or in autumnal colors are also very popular.

  • These dishes are easy to make, visually appealing, and suitable for serving to young children.

Part 3: Decorating a Thanksgiving table beautifully and in keeping with the holiday spirit.

1. Choose a natural color palette inspired by autumn.

  • Prioritize warm tones such as orange, yellow, burgundy, and brown.

  • These colors help to capture the true spirit of Thanksgiving in the dining space and create a warm and cozy atmosphere.

  • You can add metals like copper, brass, or chrome to create a modern accent.

2. Arrange the tablecloth and cutlery beforehand.

  • Lay out the tablecloth or runner in your preferred style.

  • Arrange plates, cutlery, napkins, and guest name tags to create a neat table setting and ensure guests are seated correctly.

  • Add a touch of flair by creatively folding the scarf or using a decorative scarf ring.

3. Decorate the center of the table with natural materials.

  • Arrange autumn items vertically in the middle of the table, such as:

    • Mini squash, gourds

    • Yellow leaves, tree branches

    • Pine cones, acorns

    • Seasonal fruits

  • Add candles or votives to create warm lighting and add depth to the space.

  • The centerpiece of the table could be a vase of flowers with an autumnal theme or a traditional cornucopia .

4. Use vases and candlesticks to create height.

  • Use tall vases or candlesticks to create layers for your table setting.

  • Varying the height makes the dining table look more dynamic and elegant without being visually cluttered.

5. Prepare extra tables if there aren't enough seats.

  • If the main dining table isn't big enough, you can add a side table in the living room.

  • For young children, seating around a tea table with cushions can create a comfortable and safe private space.

Part 4: Meaningful Family Activities and Thanksgiving Traditions

Step 1: Watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

1. Follow the famous traditional event of Thanksgiving.

  • Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is an event that many American families watch every year.

  • The parade took place in New York with highlights including:

    • Giant helium-filled balloons

    • Marching bands

    • Themed decorated float

    • Performances from Broadway musicals.

  • The vibrant, colorful atmosphere helps you feel the festive spirit right at home.

2. Check out popular TV channels.

  • Major networks like CBS, ABC, and NBC all broadcast live.

  • Telemundo broadcasts in Spanish, making it suitable for those who want to watch in a bilingual format.

  • This is an accessible option for the whole family on Thanksgiving morning.

3. This year's broadcast schedule

  • The parade airs from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (EST) on NBC and Peacock .

  • You can watch it online if you don't have a traditional TV.

Step 2: Watch a football game on Thanksgiving Day.

1. Watch traditional football matches on television.

  • Watching American football is a familiar tradition for many American families on Thanksgiving Day.

  • The games are typically broadcast throughout the day on major channels such as ABC, ESPN, NBC, CBS, and Fox .

  • If you want to watch in Spanish, you can follow it on ESPN Deportes, Telemundo, TUDN, or Fox Deportes .

  • This is an activity that helps the whole family relax before or after a party.

2. Which teams usually play games on Thanksgiving?

  • The Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions are two teams that traditionally feature in the special holiday game series.

  • These matches often attract large crowds because they are symbolic of Thanksgiving Day.

3. Organize a small soccer game in your garden.

  • If you want some light exercise before a big meal, invite friends, neighbors, or family to play a fun game of soccer in the backyard.

  • This activity helps to increase connection and create a lively atmosphere before sitting down to eat.

Step 3: Share the things you are grateful for on Thanksgiving Day.

1. Take a few minutes before the meal to say thank you.

  • The Thanksgiving tradition usually begins with each person taking turns sharing what they are grateful for .

  • This is a time for people to look back on the past year and appreciate the good things, such as:

    • Family and friends

    • Work and colleagues

    • Health, help from others

  • This activity makes meals more meaningful and brings family members closer together.

2. Create a more fun atmosphere with the "Thank You from A to Z" game.

  • Each person said one thing they were grateful for, in alphabetical order .

  • For example, the first person to share using the letter A: "I am grateful for Aunt Sharon's kindness."

  • This approach encourages more creative thinking and brings more laughter to the dinner table.

Step 4: Play the wishbone game on Thanksgiving Day.

1. Take the wish bone after your meal.

  • Some families keep the V-shaped breastbone of the turkey – called the wishbone .

  • This part is located near the breast meat and is easy to remove after you've removed all the surrounding meat.

  • Set the bones aside and let them air dry for a while so they are easier to handle and not slippery.

2. Perform the ritual of splitting bones to "wish for good fortune".

  • Choose two people , each holding one end of the bone.

  • They both secretly wished for what they desired.

  • Gently pull and separate the bones.

  • According to folklore, the person holding the larger piece is believed to have good luck or have their wishes come true.

3. Learn about the fascinating origins of this tradition.

  • The game originated with the ancient Etruscans , who believed that chickens had the ability to predict the future.

  • They kept and gently stroked the dried bones for good luck, and this custom was passed down through generations.

Step 5: Participate in volunteer activities at a community support center.

1. Choose a place to volunteer on Thanksgiving Day.

  • Because Thanksgiving is a time to spread gratitude and share, many people choose to volunteer at shelters, soup kitchens, or religious organizations in their area.

  • Contact your nearest center in advance to find out about support hours, activities requiring assistance , and the registration process.

2. Invite family and friends to join in.

  • Volunteering in a group helps you stay motivated and increases the effectiveness of your support for the community.

  • This is also a great way to bond with family and create meaningful memories during the holidays.

3. Contribute according to your ability if you don't have time.

  • Even with a busy schedule, you can still share by:

    • Donate warm clothes .

    • Donate canned goods, dried food ,

    • Provide necessary supplies to the local center.

  • This format still embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving and helps many people have a more fulfilling holiday.

Step 6: Play the game with family and friends.

1. Choose familiar board games.

  • Games like Monopoly, Life, Pictionary , or Clue are always suitable for holiday gatherings.

  • This is a lighthearted form of entertainment that encourages more interaction among people without requiring elaborate preparation.

  • These games are suitable for a wide range of ages, making it easy to create a fun atmosphere for the whole family.

2. Try adding card games and dice games.

  • UNO is a fast, fun, and easy-to-play choice for both children and adults.

  • Dice games like Yahtzee are also very popular, especially at large parties.

3. Create a sense of connection on Thanksgiving Day.

  • Use gaming time to relax after a big meal or kill time while waiting for your food.

  • This is a simple yet effective way to increase camaraderie and bring laughter to the entire table.

Step 7: Rest or take a walk after Thanksgiving.

1. Take a short nap to allow your body to regain energy.

  • Thanksgiving meals are often quite filling and high in calories, leaving many people feeling sleepy afterward.

  • Taking a nap for 20-30 minutes on the sofa is perfectly normal and a habit for many families.

  • A short nap helps you feel more alert for evening activities.

2. Take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood.

  • If you don't feel like lying down to rest, opt for a 15-20 minute walk to burn off some energy and help your digestive system function better.

  • Going out with friends or family is a great way to relax and create more time for conversation after a meal.

3. Create pleasant moments of quiet during the holiday.

  • Whether you choose to sleep or take a walk, the goal is to help your body relax after a big meal.

  • This is a relaxing activity, suitable for many families, and often included in traditional Thanksgiving schedules.

Part 5: Quick Facts About Thanksgiving

1. Thanksgiving takes place on the fourth Thursday of November.

  • This is an annual national holiday in the United States , used to express gratitude for the harvest and the good things in the year.

  • Americans believe that the modern holiday was inspired by a feast in 1621 between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag.

  • Today's traditions include:

    • A big party with turkey and pumpkin pie.

    • Watch the parade and the rugby match.

    • Gather together with family and friends.

2. The US President performs the "turkey pardoning" ritual.

  • A few days before the holiday, the US President pardons a turkey – meaning it is spared from being slaughtered.

  • This was a live televised event at the White House, both symbolic and fun.

3. Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel occasions of the year.

  • Approximately 80 million people in the United States travel 50 miles (80 km) or more during the holidays.

  • Traffic congestion and delays at the airport are very common.

4. The day after Thanksgiving is called Black Friday.

  • Black Friday is the biggest shopping day of the year in the United States.

  • Stores open early, offer deep discounts, and launch many special deals.

5. Canada also celebrates Thanksgiving, but it's in October.

  • Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October .

  • The reason is that Canada's harvest season ends earlier due to its colder climate compared to the United States.

Important notes for preparing and serving a smooth Thanksgiving party.

1. Keep young children safe, especially in the kitchen area.

  • If there are children in the house, always keep an eye on them – especially when you are cooking.

  • The kitchen is a place where accidents can easily happen, so set up a safe play area to prevent children from running into hot surfaces or sharp objects.

2. Choose a simple Thanksgiving recipe if you're a beginner.

  • Cooking for your first Thanksgiving meal doesn't need to be fancy.

  • Start with easy, simple, and familiar dishes to reduce stress.

  • The goal is a cozy meal, not a perfect performance.

3. Using processed foods when needed – perfectly normal.

  • Not everyone has the time to prepare everything from scratch.

  • You can buy ready-made sandwiches, sauces, desserts, or even a main course if you're too busy.

  • The important thing is that the party is fun and meaningful, not that you have to do everything yourself.

4. Prepare the side dishes while the turkey is roasting.

  • Roasting a turkey takes quite a long time, so you can use the time to cook side dishes such as:

    • String bean

    • Bread rolls

    • Sweet potato

    • Corn

  • This method saves time and avoids having to deal with tasks at the last minute.

5. Meeting the dietary needs of guests.

  • Ask about any allergies , dietary restrictions , or food preferences beforehand.

  • For example, vegetarian guests can order "tofu turkey" or dishes made from vegetables.

  • This helps everyone feel comfortable and respected.

6. Don't feel pressured to stick to a traditional dinner – flexibility is key.

  • A Thanksgiving meal doesn't necessarily have to include turkey.

  • You can absolutely substitute it with ham , grilled chicken , or any other dish your family enjoys.

  • The true meaning of Thanksgiving lies in gratitude and the moments spent together, not in the mandatory meal.

References

  1. https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/poultry/lets-talk-turkey-roasting
  2. https://cooking.nytimes.com/article/thanksgiving-dinner-tips
  3. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/41393/easy-herb-roasted-turkey/
  4. https://www.allrecipes.com/article/prepare-the-perfect-ham/
  5. https://www.thanksgiving-day.org/thanksgiving-day-recipes.html#cranberrychutney
  6. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/24771/basic-mashed-potatoes/
  7. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/13693/bread-and-celery-stuffing/
  8. https://www.allrecipes.com/article/thanksgiving-menus-for-beginners-to-experts/
  9. https://sanctuaryhomedecor.com/thanksgiving-table-in-warm-fall-colors/
  10. https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/american-celebrate-thanksgiving/2529775.html
  11. https://www.nbcuniversal.com/article/americas-most-watched-entertainment-telecast-year-macys-thanksgiving-day-parader-returns-live-nbc
  12. https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/american-celebrate-thanksgiving/2529775.html
  13. https://www.travelcookeat.com/imported-20100608191054/2020/11/20/non-traditional-ways-to-celebrate-thanksgiving
  14. https://www.freep.com/story/life/food/2021/11/24/thanksgiving-wishbone-what-know-furcula/8747422002/
  15. https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/american-celebrate-thanksgiving/2529775.html
  16. https://www.travelcookeat.com/imported-20100608191054/2020/11/20/non-traditional-ways-to-celebrate-thanksgiving
  17. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/24/dining/how-to-take-a-nap.html
  18. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Thanksgiving-Day
  19. https://www.whitehousehistory.org/questions/which-president-started-the-tradition-of-pardoning-the-thanksgiving-turkey
  20. https://newsroom.aaa.com/2024/11/nearly-80-million-americans-expected-to-travel-over-thanksgiving/
  21. https://www.dictionary.com/e/black-friday/
  22. https://www.almanac.com/content/ways-canadian-thanksgiving-differs-american-thanksgiving

Translated by: Lesley Collins Tran .

Ollie_George_Cigliano-Tiptory
Ollie George Cigliano Culinary expert

Ollie George Cigliano is a private chef and culinary educator in Long Beach with over 20 years of experience. She excels at combining fresh ingredients with traditional and modern cooking techniques, having previously worked in test kitchens and as a culinary manager.

Updated on Ngày 16 tháng 07 năm 2026 (GMT +7)

3 comments

Mình từng trang trí bàn tiệc Thanksgiving với bí đỏ mini, lá vàng và nến lung linh. Nhìn thì sang trọng lắm, nhưng trẻ con trong nhà lại tưởng là đồ chơi, bày trò ném bí đỏ khắp phòng. Kết quả: bàn tiệc thành “sân vận động mùa thu”. Ai có mẹo giữ bàn tiệc an toàn trước lũ nhóc không?

Thuỷ NguyễnNov 22, 2025

Mình háo hức làm cranberry sauce theo công thức trên mạng, cuối cùng thành… mứt chua lè. Cả bàn tiệc phải ăn kèm bánh mì cho đỡ sốc vị giác. Thế mới thấy, không phải món nào của Thanksgiving cũng hợp khẩu vị người Việt. Có ai từng “vật lộn” với cranberry giống mình không?

Khánh Chi PhạmNov 22, 2025

Mình từng thử nướng gà tây cho tiệc Thanksgiving, mà kết quả giống “gà tây phiên bản than củi” hơn là món ăn truyền thống. Cả nhà vừa ăn vừa cười, bảo thôi lần sau chuyển qua gà nướng kiểu Việt cho an toàn. Ai từng gặp cảnh “gà tây cháy giòn” chưa?

Quỳnh AnhNov 22, 2025

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In-depth analysis and practical advice from leading experts.

A traditional Thanksgiving feast typically includes roast turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. These iconic dishes add warmth to the table and capture the spirit of Thanksgiving. You can flexibly add salads, rolls, or vegetarian options to suit your family's tastes.

To host a simple Thanksgiving party, you should prepare your guest list early, choose a potluck format for sharing food, and prepare turkey and a few main courses. Decorate the tables with autumnal colors, and add candles or flowers to create a warm atmosphere. The most important thing is the moment of togetherness and sharing gratitude, not the extravagance.

Absolutely. If turkey is difficult to find in Vietnam, you can substitute it with roasted chicken, ham, or even a vegetarian option like tofu turkey. The meaning of Thanksgiving lies in gratitude and family togetherness, so changing the dishes still maintains the festive spirit.

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