The Thanksgiving with an Asterisk
Thanksgiving 2020 will probably be one of a kind for many families. California has recommended limiting the number of people in our gatherings. Essentially, the advice is to keep to your own household. For those who intend to follow the recommended guidelines, there are ways to make the best of this year’s celebration of gratitude.
Meal Exchange + Virtual Dining
For friends and family that live close by, you could participate in a meal exchange between a few households. Work together to decide on a menu, then have each family sign up for a dish or two to prepare. Divide the dish into individual sealed containers to deliver to the other families participating in your meal exchange. Each participating family can eat together over Zoom or another video chat service at mealtime. If you have a smart TV, running the feed through its larger screen can make your distanced guests feel more life-sized.
Another option for a seasonal activity is to cook or bake holiday treats together virtually.
Keep it Simple – or Go All Out.
Because our 2020 guest lists are likely much smaller than during a regular year, there are two very reasonable options to consider, depending on your preference: keep things super simple and easy, or, since you won’t be feeding a large group, explore your inner Top Chef and try more complicated dishes that you may not be confident enough to attempt during a traditional gathering.
Keeping it simple could mean you order your entire meal from a supermarket or restaurant and simply reheat it at home.
Going all out may mean trying to make a butternut squash tart tatin or gravy-braised turkey legs with cipollini onions.
Watch the YouTube video. The staff at Bon Appetit share “perfect” Thanksgiving recipes.
Dine al Fresco
Chances are good that there will be no rain in Stockton on Thanksgiving. Californians have it easier than most when planning an outdoor gathering. If you have a fire pit or outdoor heater – all the better. It is safer for groups of people to socialize outdoors, so if your guest list exceeds the recommendations, consider a backyard celebration.
An outdoor Thanksgiving is perfect for trying grilled turkey, smoked turkey, or a deep-fried bird. Have your guests bring sides, potluck style. Be sure to keep some extra sweaters and throw blankets on hand.
Reconsider Traditions – Or Start a New One
Maybe you have never enjoyed turkey and stuffing. Thanksgiving 2020 is an opportunity to break away from the expected. Here are some suggestions for alternative feasts:
- Cioppino with sourdough garlic bread
- An Italian feast including spaghetti carbonara
- Enchiladas
- Order a selection from your favorite Chinese restaurant
Share Your Good Fortune With Others
Those fortunate enough to remain employed during the pandemic have much to be grateful for. Many folks have lost loved ones or are experiencing financial hardship. Food banks will be busier than ever, keeping people fed this winter, so if you can help, consider donating to the Stockton Food Bank.
Other options for giving include mailing off some of your stress baking products to family and friends.
Finally, it is easy to resort to Amazon, but small businesses are hanging on by a thread. If you are able, shop local.
Stockton California Personal Injury Lawyer
Thank you for reading our ideas about How to Celebrate Thanksgiving During the Pandemic. I am Ed Smith, a personal injury lawyer in Stockton. As a car accident lawyer, I know that one thing hasn’t changed during this pandemic – car accidents still occur daily on our local roads. Being injured and dealing with insurance companies is stress no one needs. If you were injured due to the actions of a negligent driver, my office will be happy to provide free and friendly legal advice. Call to speak with a case manager or injury lawyer at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400.
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/illustrations/turkey-fowl-thanksgiving-thanks-966496/
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