New Home Checklist: Hosting Your First Thanksgiving
If you moved into a new home over the past year, you might be finding yourself on hosting duty for the first time this Thanksgiving, and that can be a lot of pressure. But don’t worry — a little bit of planning will go a long way towards a stress-free afternoon.
Two to three weeks out
- Plan the menu
- Order your turkey, rolls, or dessert
- Send out invitations and a dish sign-up sheet
- Take inventory of kitchen supplies, plates, and silverware
- If using, book a rental service for plates and silverware
- Test-cook any dishes you’re nervous about
MYMOVE pro tip
Plan on around one pound of turkey per person — or around half a pound of edible meat each. Experts recommend turkeys in the 10 to 12 pound range.The week of
- Decorate the house
- Thaw the turkey about three days before Thanksgiving — or 24 hours for every 4-5 lbs
- Get the grocery shopping done
- Prep the guest rooms (with a new mattress if needed)
- Make a schedule for Thanksgiving Day
MYMOVE pro tip
Prepare what you can in advance. Dishes like casseroles and vegetables can be cooked and refrigerated for up to two days, and pie crusts can be baked three days ahead.The day before
- Clean the house (or at least the essential rooms)
- Set the table
- Make a cooking schedule for the day ahead
MYMOVE pro tip
Put two bags in your trash can so you have a fresh one ready to go while you’re cooking.Thanksgiving Day
- Wake up early
- Make a big-batch drink like slow cooker cider
- Roast the perfect turkey
- Start a new tradition like
