Thanksgiving 2020: 9 Ideas to Make It Fun and Safe
What does Thanksgiving look like for you and your family this year? No doubt, it’s going to be a bit different. As COVID-19 cases continue to rise throughout the country, we’re all trying to ensure our family and friends remain in good health. For many, that means nixing big gatherings on Thanksgiving — a holiday known for large, boisterous get-togethers. But don’t be dismayed. This year’s festivities may be the start of new, cherished traditions. Here are some ideas to keep if fun yet safe this year and beyond.
1 – Dine al-fresco
Lucky for us, our location offers several balmy days during the fall and winter months. It’s not out of the question to enjoy an outdoor dining celebration. Fresh air is ideal for keeping our loved ones safe. So, let’s all hope for excellent weather on the holiday, but even if it’s not perfect, an outdoor porch can be a safe and cozy spot for families to congregate.
2 – Gather virtually
If we can’t gather everyone in one physical place, do it online instead. Consider doing a video happy hour or dinner party. At this point, we’ve all become pretty adept at Zoom meetings. Let’s use those tech powers for good rather than another boring work meeting. Once everyone has joined the call, share a toast and a moment of gratitude. And don’t forget to take a screenshot and share it on social media. People love seeing people, especially on the holidays.
3 – Play trivia
Everyone knows that we’re big into trivia at Harbor Club. So, whether you’re having a small, at-home gathering, or are virtually meeting via Zoom, give Thanksgiving-themed trivia a try. It’s a fun way to get everyone chatting. Parade Magazine published a free list of 50 Thanksgiving Trivia Questions and Answers. Undoubtedly, you’ll learn some fascinating new facts…maybe even one that will prove useful at one of our Trivia Nights.
4 – Conduct a cooking lesson
Do you have any family that are sad about missing out on a favorite, traditional dish? Teach them how to make it. With this fun twist on a Zoom meeting, you can show everyone how to create a family-favorite recipe. Don’t have a secret recipe to share? Show how to make a signature cocktail instead. Our friends at Southern Living have an excellent recipe for Thanksgiving Rum Punch that you could try. Don’t forget to offer a gratitude-themed toast before indulging in the results.
5 – Have a pajama party
On Thanksgiving, most people gather together in their Sunday best. With everything else being so topsy-turvy this year, why not wear cozy PJs instead? If you’re celebrating only with those at home, this idea works perfectly. Plus, pajamas are ideal for accommodating a belly full of ‘Turkey Day’ feast.
6 – Have pie for breakfast
Usually, a tradition the day after Thanksgiving, a slice of pumpkin pie for breakfast with a warm cup of coffee, is divine. Why not give it a go ON the holiday instead? Celebrate Thanksgiving together online or at home with delicious pie for breakfast. It’s not that far-fetched when you think about it, considering we eat coffee cake, strudel, and other sweets for our first meal of the day. So, what’ll be? Apple? Pumpkin? Pecan? Maybe a little of all three…
7 – Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Contrary to popular belief, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is NOT canceled this year. It’s scheduled to take place on Thanksgiving Day from 9 am to 12 pm and be televised on NBC. Broadway performers will be back in action with short takes on “Hamilton,” “Jagged Little Pill,” and more. Rumor has it that Dolly Parton will make an appearance as well. You can also expect to see the massive balloons, but this year they’ll be driven by utility vehicles down 34th Street only. It’ll be different but fun to watch.
8 – Watch the football game
Not into the parade thing? That’s ok — watch football instead. It’s a classic Thanksgiving Day activity that’s loved by many. Here’s the lineup:
12:30 pm: Houston Texans at Detroit Lions, CBS
4:30 pm: Washington Football Team at Dallas Cowboys, FOX
8:20 pm: Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers, NBC
9 – Put up the Christmas tree
We’re seeing a trend where people are putting up their Christmas trees and other holiday decorations super-early this year. It makes sense, considering it brings joy to so many that really need it right now. Why wait? Go ahead and get into the spirit of the season with festive decor. December is right around the corner, and Christmas will be here before you know it anyway.
No matter what you end up doing for the Thanksgiving holiday, we wish you glad tidings for peace, prosperity, and much abundance this season. When you think about it, we all have so much to be thankful for — especially if you live at Harbor Club. Happy Thanksgiving to all.
PS – Do you have family coming into town for the upcoming holiday? Why not play golf together on our highly-acclaimed course? It’s a fun, safe activity for all. While the course is closed on Thanksgiving Day, it is open the day before, on Wednesday, November 25, with tee times available from 8 am – 12 pm.