8 Non-Traditional Ways To Spend Thanksgiving Day

People are reconsidering their approach to holidays.

Socially and economically, the changing times present an opportunity to move beyond traditional ways of celebrating holidays, particularly Thanksgiving Day. As the dynamic of American households shifts, families are reconsidering their approach to gathering and expressing gratitude. While coming together with loved ones around the dining table to feast on the classic turkey dinner remains a staple, alternative practices such as volunteer activities, “friends‑giving” celebrations, destination dining experiences, and purely gratitude-focused moments are becoming more popular. Opinions about eating turkey and other food consumed on Thanksgiving Day are changing, indicating a fundamental shift in holiday observance practices.

If you are looking for other ways to spend Thanksgiving, here are eight non-traditional approaches to consider.

Host A ‘Friendsgiving‘ Instead Of The Usual Family Feast

Organize a “Friendsgiving” event as an alternative to a conventional family Thanksgiving dinner, inviting friends and loved ones. The Thanksgiving-style event takes place around Thanksgiving Day at a friend’s residence or shared space. Some people don’t want to attend traditional family gatherings, while others face physical barriers that prevent them from attending. The alternative gathering fosters community through potluck contributions, where attendees share homemade dishes.

Volunteer At A Food Bank Or Serve A Community Meal

During Thanksgiving Day or the holiday weekend, volunteer at a food bank or serve a community meal. Organizations that assist people who face food insecurity need your help to sort food, pack boxes, cook, and distribute meals. Through the Feeding America network, you can volunteer at a local food bank or pantry by signing up for a shift.

Switch Up The Menu

Hosts and guests who want to break from traditional Thanksgiving dishes may find globally inspired options or turkey alternatives appealing. Serve alternative main courses and side dishes to replace traditional turkey and stuffing. The Thanksgiving meal transition between traditional and alternative dishes can occur either at the dining table or in the kitchen. During the holiday, serve roast chicken, smoked ham, vegetarian mains, or international dishes to bring fresh flavors and honor different tastes and cultural backgrounds.

Take A Nature Or Community Hike/Race

Join a nature or community hike/race with families, friend groups, or fitness-minded folks instead of jumping into a long feast. Take a morning hike or walk in a park, or join a Thanksgiving-day run/walk. Look up local race events or organize your group to go outside before eating.

Develop a “Gratitude Share” practice during mealtimes, which extends beyond just eating. The practice works well with both small and extended groups. Allocate specific time during the day for verbal or written gratitude expression instead of focusing only on food. People can share their appreciation either before or after the meal in a lounge area or around the dining table. The goal is to restore the true meaning of Thanksgiving through intentional gratitude and reflection instead of taking it for granted. Everyone shares one item of appreciation while optionally writing cards to be collected later.

Travel For The Day: Mini‐Getaway Instead Of Hosting At Home

Consider spending Thanksgiving with family or friend groups on a mini-getaway instead of hosting at home. Consider the option to stay in a cabin or beach house, or visit a specific destination. This approach minimizes hosting pressure while generating fresh experiences and turns the day into a brief vacation. Plan your travel and accommodation in advance while making meal arrangements simpler through restaurant or catering options.

Turn The Day Into A Giving Back Holiday For Family Bonding

Transform your Thanksgiving Day into a time for community service while strengthening family bonds. Dedicate part of your Thanksgiving Day to community service activities with your family instead of solely focusing on food preparation and eating. Your family can participate together in community service activities, such as park cleanups or assisting at a homeless shelter. Your younger family members will learn about gratitude and service through this activity, while the family’s focus shifts from consumption to contribution. Your family can combine their meal with service activities to add more enjoyment to the experience. Research volunteer opportunities that match your family’s interests before combining your meal with service activities.

Host A ‘Game Day‘ Instead Of Traditional Football + Dinner

Replace traditional football and dinner with a “Game Day” or creative competition event for households, friend groups, and multi-generational families. Organize a structured “Game Day” (board games, video games, family tournaments) or creative challenge (cook-off, talent show) instead of watching football. During Thanksgiving Day (post-meal or as part of a gathering). Living room, backyard, game room, Zoom if remote. Create an interactive, inclusive environment for all ages throughout the day, focusing on children and individuals who show less interest in football.

RELATED CONTENT: How To Avoid The Holiday Debt Hangover