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Checklist · 21 items

Thanksgiving hosting checklist

A week-by-week plan for hosting Thanksgiving without the Wednesday-night panic.

Guidance: USDA: thawing a turkey safely

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Two weeks before

  • Finalize the guest list
  • Plan the menu
  • Ask guests to bring a dish
  • Order the turkey
  • Plan when to thaw the turkeyThaw it in the refrigerator: about 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds, so start days ahead
  • Check you have enough chairs and plates

The week of

  • Move the turkey to the refrigerator to thawOn the day you planned
  • Shop for groceries
  • Clean the fridge
  • Make the cranberry sauce
  • Set the table
  • Chill drinks

The day before

  • Brine the turkeyIf you're brining
  • Make pies
  • Prep vegetables
  • Make stuffing
  • Set out serving dishes

The day of

  • Allow enough time to cook and rest the turkey
  • Make gravy
  • Warm the sides
  • Take a family photoOptional
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