Here are 13+ wonderful ideas to make your Thanksgiving memorable—perfect for family and friends.
October is here and Thanksgiving will be here before we know it.
This year has flown by, and the holiday season is right around the corner.
We’ll be staying home again since traveling for a short holiday break can be difficult with limited time off from work and school.
Traffic northbound gets heavy and what should be a 10-hour drive often takes much longer during the holidays.
Last year our families had a blast renting a house with friends for Thanksgiving, so we’re doing it again—only this time we’ll host at home and our friends will come down to North Carolina.
Anne has the space to welcome guests at her house for the long weekend, and AnnMarie often hosts Thanksgiving dinner in her large dining room.
It’s so much fun to be together!
With at least 15 people expected—and possibly more if the kids bring partners—we keep the dining room décor simple and the recipes easy.
Spending time together is the most important part, but we love setting a pretty table and sharing favorite recipes.
Below are our favorite ideas to help you plan a relaxed, beautiful Thanksgiving. Read through to the end to see our top picks.
How to Style a Tablescape for Thanksgiving Dinner
AnnMarie doesn’t use her dining room daily, so she styles the table in advance. Although the main table seats six, she adds another table on the big day by placing a folding table and a piece of plywood to match the tabletop, creating one long dining surface. Extra folding chairs (and a few borrowed from Anne) give everyone a place to sit.
Two years ago AnnMarie created a neutral tablescape that paired green garland and napkins with white pumpkins and warm wood chargers and candle holders—an elegant, natural look that works in many rooms.
This year AnnMarie used neutral grays and whites for a cozy autumn tablescape. The same versatile garland appears again—an accessory that transitions well through the seasons. She also incorporated vintage amber bottles for a warm, nostalgic touch.
Whether you celebrate with family or host a Friendsgiving, mixing vintage finds with everyday pieces creates a warm, collected look. Anne layered amber bottles, mums, and unique items like stacked brick molds to craft a standout centerpiece.
If you want simple table ideas, try styling the same table three different ways—small changes like napkins, chargers, or a centerpiece can give the table a fresh feel without a lot of work.
Thanksgiving is also about turkey and football—so why not try a playful football-themed tablescape? It’s a fun, unexpected approach that guests of all ages will enjoy.
How to Create a Special Thanksgiving Holiday
One meaningful tradition we cherish is the thankful tree. AnnMarie introduced it years ago and it’s become a favorite for both families. The tree traveled with us to a rented lake house last Thanksgiving so everyone could add notes of gratitude.
The concept is simple: each guest writes at least one thing they’re thankful for on a tag and hangs it on the tree. Guests can read the tags throughout the day, which keeps gratitude at the center of the celebration.
There are countless variations—use branches in a vase, miniature trees, or even a wreath hung on the wall. Make it your own and involve children for a memory-making activity.
Handmade place cards personalize your tablescape and add a thoughtful detail. They can be as simple as a tag tied to a faux pumpkin stem or an elegant tented card. We offer three printable styles to coordinate with various table themes—choose what fits your décor.
How to Simplify Breakfast on Thanksgiving Morning
We love watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, so breakfast should be easy. Overnight oats prepared the night before are perfect—grab a jar and cuddle up on the couch to watch the parade.
Our pumpkin overnight oats with maple walnut crumble are a crowd favorite, but if pumpkin isn’t your thing, try the caramel apple overnight oats instead. Both are easy, make-ahead options.
If you prefer a smoothie, an apple pie–inspired smoothie or a pumpkin spice latte custard shake are delicious, protein-packed options that make mornings feel special without stepping into the kitchen for long.
For those who want something savory, bacon cheddar biscuits or maple sausage breakfast muffins can be prepared ahead and reheated for a warm, satisfying start to the day. They freeze well and save time on a busy holiday morning.
Our Favorite Thanksgiving Appetizers and Side Dishes
For us, the best part of Thanksgiving is the appetizers and sides. Anne’s cranberry apple crumble is a must—she adapted the classic flavors into a healthier, sugar-free version that still tastes indulgent.
Our recipes lean toward Trim Healthy Mama–friendly preparations, which avoid added sugar and often separate carbs and fats. If you’re interested in healthier holiday recipes, we’ve compiled a large roundup of THM Thanksgiving ideas to inspire your menu.
Another favorite is the roasted hot corn dip—serve it with blue corn chips, mini peppers, or veggies. Make a double batch because this one disappears fast.
Some of Our Favorite People
We can’t wait to spend another Thanksgiving with some of our favorite people. Thank you for visiting our blog and following along with our ideas—your support means so much.
From our families to yours—happy Thanksgiving!
Welcome Home Saturday
We’re joining a wonderful group of bloggers for the weekly Welcome Home Saturday feature. You’ll find lots of inspiring ideas from creative bloggers this week.
Tatertots & Jello / Triple Layer Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Low Carb & Keto
Noting Grace / How We Replaced Our Log Lighter With Gas Logs
The Tattered Pew / Christmas Decorating Ideas and Inspiration
White Arrows Home / Vintage Scotch Cooler Decorating
She Gave It A Go / Fall Cleaning Checklist
Crisp Collective / 2021 Crisp Cringle Elf Kits
Simply 2 Moms / Make Your Thanksgiving Amazing With More Than 13 Ideas
If you have questions or suggestions, feel free to contact me or leave a comment.
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