Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and in celebration we are presenting a guide on tips and easy ways to host a Thanksgiving dinner without breaking the bank.
Those choosing to celebrate Thanksgiving in person this year can still do so safely. Scaling back the guest list to only a few people, as well as making sure the space is large enough for physical distancing while eating are just a few ways you can enjoy your feast while still adhering to COVID-19 protocols.
Without further ado, here are some cost-saving tips and ideas for the weekend:
1 – Make a shopping list and stick to it
Plan your menu, ideally around items you already have. For example, if you have dried sage and the recipe calls for fresh, you can often save money without a large change in taste, by utilizing what you already have.
Cut corners and improvise where you can, remember all anyone will notice in the end is a heaping plate! Then take your shopping list to the supermarket and stick to it.
2 – Pick what’s in season
Plan your menu around produce that is in season. It will be cheaper and tastier!
In BC the following are in season in October: Apples, Beans, Beets, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celery, Chives, Corn, Cranberries, Garlic, Kale, Lettuce, Leeks, Onions, Pears, Peppers, Potatoes, Pumpkins, Radishes, Rosemary, Sage, Salad Greens, Swiss Chard, Tomatoes, Thyme, Turnips, Winter Squash.
3 – Make only your favourite dishes
Pick the absolute must-haves for your Thanksgiving dinner. You don’t need ten sides. You will not only save money but also time.
4 – Make your menu from scratch
Give pre-made items a miss, they are usually overpriced and of poorer quality than homemade dishes.
Buy a bag of potatoes and peel, boil, and mash them by hand. Here are some great made-from-scratch budget recipe ideas for Thanksgiving.
5 – Skip the alcohol
The cost of bottles of alcohol can quickly add up. And with the grogginess of turkey and a heavy meal, you might be surprised that you don’t even miss it.
Alternately, when friends and family ask what to bring, request they provide a bottle of wine.
6 – Decorate simply
Don’t obsess about making your home look like House & Garden editorial. A natural feature in the center of the table is often enough (dried grasses, herbs, and decorative gourds).
A little will go a long way.
7 – Have a potluck! (only with your closest bubble, of course)
The spirit of Thanksgiving is about sharing and being together, so be happy to accept help! Make a potluck dinner and share the costs.
People are usually happy to pitch in and bring a dish or two.
What are your tips for hosting Thanksgiving on a budget? Comment below.
