Thanksgiving in the United States is a cherished time for family gatherings, delicious food, and gratitude. But with the cost of hosting a feast, traveling to visit loved ones, and decorating the house, the holiday can quickly become expensive. Fortunately, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving. Here are some practical ways to keep your costs down while still celebrating in style.
The Thanksgiving meal is the highlight of the holiday, but it doesn’t have to be the most expensive part. To save money, plan your menu in advance and stick to it. Start by making a shopping list based on sale items and seasonal produce. Instead of buying everything at once, shop smart by taking advantage of discounts on turkey and other essentials that pop up weeks before the holiday.
Consider making classic dishes that require fewer, affordable ingredients. Potatoes, stuffing, and roasted vegetables are easy on the wallet and still crowd-pleasers. You can also ask your guests to bring a side dish or dessert to share the cooking (and the cost!).
Before you hit the store, check out coupons and grocery apps to score discounts on your Thanksgiving groceries. Many supermarkets offer deals on turkey, pies, and other holiday staples in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving. Apps like Ibotta and Rakuten can help you earn cashback or rebates on your purchases.
You can also keep an eye out for deals on non-perishable items earlier in the season. Stock up on canned goods, pie crusts, and other Thanksgiving necessities when they go on sale, so you don’t have to rush and pay full price later.
Thanksgiving décor doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive. Instead of buying new decorations every year, try DIY projects using natural or inexpensive materials. Fall leaves, pumpkins, gourds, and pine cones make perfect centerpieces and table decorations that fit the autumn theme.
You can also repurpose items you already own. Reuse mason jars as candle holders or fill them with corn kernels or cranberries for a simple yet festive touch. For more creative and low-cost ideas, browse websites like Good Housekeeping, which often features DIY décor suggestions for every season.
Retailers start rolling out Thanksgiving sales long before the holiday arrives. Take advantage of these early deals by shopping around for the best prices on everything from food to table settings. Don’t forget to visit dollar stores for inexpensive serving dishes, paper plates, and even small decorations that can still make your table look festive.
Many stores also have sales after Thanksgiving, which is a great time to grab any leftover holiday items you might want for next year—at a fraction of the cost.
Thanksgiving often involves traveling to visit family and friends, but airfare, gas, and hotel stays can add up quickly, especially if you're going long distances. If you're looking to save this year, consider hosting Thanksgiving at home instead. Invite friends or nearby relatives for a cozy celebration and avoid the high cost of holiday travel.
Alternatively, if you do need to travel, consider carpooling with family members to save on gas, or book your travel early to get the best rates.
Thanksgiving leftovers are a gift that keeps on giving. Rather than tossing out extra food, use it to create delicious meals for the days following the holiday. Leftover turkey can be transformed into soups, sandwiches, or casseroles. Potatoes can be turned into breakfast hash or mashed potato pancakes. Stretching your Thanksgiving feast into several meals is not only economical but also ensures nothing goes to waste.
As with any holiday, it’s easy to get carried away with the excitement and spend more than planned. To avoid this, set a realistic budget for Thanksgiving and stick to it. Make a list of everything you need, from food to decorations, and prioritize your spending. It’s helpful to set aside a little extra for unexpected expenses, but the goal is to be mindful of your purchases and focus on what really matters—spending time with loved ones.
Thanksgiving is a special time to gather with family and friends, but it doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. By planning ahead, looking for sales, and getting creative with your décor and meal, you can celebrate a memorable Thanksgiving without overspending.
For more tips on saving money and making the most of your holiday celebrations, check out The Balance, which offers plenty of resources to help you stay on budget while enjoying your favorite holidays.
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