Our ‘anything goes’ Thanksgiving potluck keeps it low-stress. Last year, we had tacos, and this year, someone’s bringing chicken wings.
Our family keeps Thanksgiving as low-stress as possible by hosting an “anything goes” potluck. With six people in our household, staying home is easier than traveling, and over the years we’ve learned that simple is best.
When we first hosted Thanksgiving, we tried to honor every family tradition from both sides. That meant days of cooking, cleaning, and stressing over timing. By the time the meal arrived, we were worn out and frustrated. The pressure to create a perfect, traditional holiday just didn’t fit our reality as two working parents. So we changed everything.
Now, Thanksgiving at our house is a relaxed potluck where each family brings whatever dish they want. I don’t coordinate a menu or worry about foods matching. If someone wants to buy chicken wings or bring a fruit tray, great. Our family contributes our gluten-free sweet potato pies and usually a fun new dessert — this year, a s’mores cake. My parents and in-laws typically bring more traditional Thanksgiving foods, but I don’t keep track. Last year we even had a DIY taco bar. It truly is “anything goes,” and there’s always plenty to eat.
We’ve also let go of dress-up expectations. Instead of fancy outfits or matching sweaters, everyone can show up in whatever feels comfortable. As a mom of four, getting everyone polished and picture-perfect just adds stress. My kids get to choose their clothes, and if they want to stay cozy in yoga pants or hoodies, that’s fine. I’ll be wearing a Christmas T-shirt, jeans, and slippers.
Our setup is simple too. With 15 people attending — including seven kids and a toddler — we don’t try to create a magazine-worthy tablescape. We use folding tables and chairs, stain-resistant tablecloths, and disposable plates to make cleanup fast. The fancy dishes stay in the cabinet because we don’t feel the need to use them.
To keep things cozy, we turn on the fireplace, put on jazz or let the kids pick music, and create spaces for everyone to relax. The younger kids get a coloring table, and we set out board games for the older kids and adults. Some of my favorite moments come from seeing everyone laughing on the floor, enjoying themselves without pressure.
Finally, we stick to our normal lunchtime: 12:30 p.m. Eating at our usual time prevents kids and adults alike from getting hangry while waiting on a late turkey. A predictable mealtime keeps the day calm and enjoyable.
This low-key approach has made Thanksgiving something we actually look forward to — simple, relaxed, and fun.