Hosting a Thanksgiving Gathering During a Pandemic

2020 has been a challenging year for everyone. Heading into the holiday season many of us would like to have family and friends gathering for this Thanksgiving holiday. However, hosting a Thanksgiving gathering during a pandemic will not be easy. Consider some of the basic guiding principles to have a fun and safe Thanksgiving holiday.

First, decide if you will host a virtual gathering or guests in your home.

Virtual Gathering: Quick and easy while still keeping the fun in the Thanksgiving holiday. Schedule a time with family and friends to share a Thanksgiving meal together. Use a web conference app like Zoom or WebEx and email and/or text the scheduled meeting time of the virtual gathering. To add a little fun go around to everyone to have them share what is on their dinner plate.

In person Gathering: An in person meeting can be tricky. You first will have to decide whether you will host your gathering inside or outside your home. If celebrating indoors, burn candles and open windows for fresh air. Secondly, the number of guests you will invite will need to be determined. Based on the number of guests you should ensure that your home is spacious enough to accommodate all guests to move around freely. Have a conversation with your guests ahead of the gathering to set the expectations. Consider being clever by informing your guests to B.Y.O.D (Bring Your Own Drink) and B.Y.O.M (Bring Your Own Mask).

You will need to clean and disinfect frequently used items and surfaces that will be frequently touched such as door handles, sink handles, countertops, etc. Avoid a potluck dinner and designate 1-2 people to plating the Thanksgiving meal. Condiments should also be individually packaged to reduce contact.

If hosting a virtual or in person gathering is not for you this Thanksgiving holiday consider other Thanksgiving activities.

Staying Home? Watch Thanksgiving parades and play games with close family.

Like to Shop? While in the middle of a pandemic many are uncomfortable going out to shop. You can shop in the comfort of your home online. Consider checking out our online store for miscellaneous home goods. There are likely to be many Thanksgiving holiday sales from some of your favorite stores.

These steps may be little but they are BIG steps to ensuring everyone can have a safer Thanksgiving. Everyone has a role in ensuring our communities overcome this pandemic. We want you to keep you and your loved ones safe this Thanksgiving and throughout the holiday season.