I swear, every year I search “how to Thanksgiving” (as the kids say it) on the internet, because every year I forget. After all, how is a person supposed to remember how to roast a turkey or what foods to buy? And let’s be real, ever since the pandemic began, I’ve completely forgotten how to socialize — let alone how to host a festive gathering.
If you’re hosting Thanksgiving this year but aren’t sure how to keep everyone safe and healthy, read on for some tips and helpful information.
Even though the COVID vaccine is now readily available, it still behooves us to be cautious. “We're at a pretty complicated juncture, so it's well worth families and groups thinking very carefully through [how to handle the holiday],” Dr. Pia MacDonald of the the Research Triangle Institute told Delish.
After examining multiple factors such as the Delta variant, current vaccination rates, national masking guidelines, and schools resuming in-person instruction, Dr. MacDonald said she expects an uptick in COVID cases through December. As a result, you’ll want to prioritize the safety and health of your guests — especially the most vulnerable, such as children who haven't yet been vaccinated, the elderly, or folks who are immunocompromised.
Safety tips for Thanksgiving this year
Travel: Thanksgiving and holidays
If you have family or friends traveling from out of state or the area, you will have to decide what is best for you and your family. As just mentioned, the CDC recommends people delay travel until they’re fully vaccinated. Your guests can also visit the CDC travel page to make their own determinations on if it’s in their best interest to travel this Thanksgiving.
Check your area’s vaccination and infection rates
Deciding whether to gather with out-of-town guests will depend on the vaccination rates of your local county and how quickly COVID is spreading in your community. If you have guests traveling to visit you, you may also want to consider the vaccination and infection rates near their residences.
Ultimately, inform your guests of your expectations and efforts to keep them and your family safe this Thanksgiving. The earlier notice you give and the more clear your communication, the less any of you will be surprised by unwelcome and awkward situations.
