Thanksgiving Schedule

Preparing a big Thanksgiving meal can be hectic, and if you’re not organized, it can quickly spiral out of control leaving you frustrated, over and undercooking dishes, and eating later than planned. After cooking for our big family for so many years, I’ve created a schedule that keeps me on track.

I list out everything that has to be done the entire week of Thanksgiving, a full menu, number of guests, etc. The schedule is also very helpful if/when someone comes into the kitchen and asks if they can help. A quick glance at the list allows you to delegate one of the to do items.

I've created a schedule that that you can use, making adjustments as needed to account for new guests, different dishes, etc. I hope this helps you enjoy your Thanksgiving with your family and friends.

From my kitchen to yours... Happy Thanksgiving!

Download Schedule

schedule for the week of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Day Schedule

Thanksgiving Menu

Helpful Tips

• Plan the entire week out in advance. What can you cook ahead of time? What can you prep and set aside in the refrigerator ready to go for Thanksgiving Day? 
• Set the table in advance. It can be a fun change for the family to eat dinner on the couch, or at the kitchen island while the table is reserved for the big day.
• Label your serving dishes. Lay out your serving dishes and label them so when Thanksgiving Day arrives, you're not scrambling to find granny's antique gravy boat, or mamma's salt & pepper shakers.
• Post a simple schedule of the day for your guests where everyone can see it. For example, parade 9am, appetizers 11am, football game 1pm, Thanksgiving dinner 3pm. 
• Schedule time to enjoy the day in between to do list items. Make sure you leave yourself time to enjoy your family, the parade, the game, and all of your fun traditions.
• Focus on gratitude. Cooking for a crowd can be stressful, and it's easy to get a little cranky, but when you feel your inner Karen coming out, stop. Take a deep breath, and remember how blessed you are to be surrounded by the people you love.