Try These New Thanksgiving Traditions

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Spending quality time with people we love has never been more important. Thanksgiving 2021 is the perfect opportunity to try some new ideas for enjoying our loved ones and neighbors. And who knows? You just might find some great new traditions that will last for years to come.

And who better to turn to for a great idea? Oprah shares some “new traditions” that we can all embrace!

Organize an ornament exchange.

Here’s a fun idea that involves the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Because Santa's sleigh appears at the end of the parade and signals that start of the Christmas holiday, it’s a great opportunity for those who celebrate Christmas to have an ornament exchange. Invite each Thanksgiving guest to bring an ornament to exchange to kick-off the holidays.

Indulge in a pie breakfast.

Why wait until after dinner for pie? Start Thanksgiving Day with a pie breakfast. If you wish, save the pumpkin pie for a traditional after-dinner dessert. But ask guests to each bring a pie to share for breakfast. It’s the start of a great new tradition! Check out some easy pie recipes here.

Connect with family members far away.

One of the things we all learned during the pandemic is that there are many ways to connect with friends and family no matter how far they may be. Set up a virtual happy hour or video before or after your meal. You can even share a Thanksgiving toast. It’s the next best thing to being there.

Collect canned goods.

How about inviting your guests to bring non-perishable canned goods to your celebration? Caring for our neighbors who may be in need is always in style.

Make personalized place cards.

Imagine your guests’ expressions when they find a personalized place card filled with heartwarming messages of appreciation. Before the big day, send around a guest list and ask everybody to share one thing they love or respect about each guest. It will be a treasured moment at your Thanksgiving table.

Dine al fresco.

As Sonoma County residents, we are blessed with an incredible climate. If the weather supports it, dine outside! Being closer to nature is a literal breath of fresh air. After dinner venture out on a family hike. Check out a few great Sonoma County hikes here.

Share beloved family stories.

Avoid mindless screen time and ask your older relatives to share a few of their favorite family stories. The activity will not only fill the evening with laughter (and, possibly, tears) but it will also create deeper bonds that last long beyond the holidays.

Write thank-you notes.

Gratitude isn’t just a concept we should visit on Thanksgiving Day. Place a thank you card and blank envelope at each seat at your Thanksgiving table and ask everyone to write a note to someone who made a difference in their lives over the past year. As your guests are leaving, collect the cards, and mail them the following day. A handwritten note is a rarity in today’s world and may brighten someone’s day!