7 ways to save on Thanksgiving costs this month

Between your turkey, ingredients for the holiday meal, and decor to set the ambiance, hosting a Thanksgiving dinner is not cheap.

If you’re looking for ways to cut back without compromising on quality, here are seven easy ways to save on Thanksgiving costs this year.

Get an accurate headcount early

Reach out to your guests at least a week before Thanksgiving to confirm who's coming. Knowing your exact number helps you buy the right amount of food, avoiding both waste and those panic-inducing moments when you realize you're short on sides. A firm headcount means you can be both a gracious host and stay within budget.

Find out what your guests like

When extending your invitations, take the opportunity to learn about your guests' food preferences and dietary needs. Ask what dishes they enjoy and which ones they'd prefer to avoid. Don't feel pressured to serve traditional Thanksgiving staples if they won't appeal to your crowd. It's better to skip the unpopular dishes than to let them go to waste simply because they're "expected."

Make it a potluck

Cut costs and reduce stress by accepting offers from guests who want to contribute! Rather than leaving it open-ended (which could result in seven pumpkin pies), create a shared Google Sheet with your planned menu where guests can sign up for specific dishes. This ensures a balanced meal while distributing both the work and expenses.

Serve on smaller plates

People tend to fill their plates regardless of size, so using smaller plates can help minimize waste. Guests can always go back for seconds if they're still hungry.

DIY decor

You can create a stunning holiday tablescape without breaking the bank. Start by browsing Pinterest for DIY decoration inspiration, then hit your local dollar store for budget-friendly finds like colored vases, artificial flowers, and ready-made centerpieces. For an even more affordable approach, get creative with what you already have! Branches, pinecones, pumpkins from your yard, or candles and linens from around the house can all make beautiful decorations.

Shop the sales

Grocery stores begin offering discounts on Thanksgiving essentials as early as Halloween, so planning ahead pays off. If you can stay flexible with your menu, wait to see which ingredients and produce go on sale, then build your dishes around the best deals. Don't forget to comparison shop for your turkey. Prices can vary significantly between stores, and some even provide a free bird when you reach a minimum purchase threshold on other items.

Use what you already have

Before heading to the store, take stock of your pantry, fridge, and freezer. You might already have spices, canned goods, or baking staples on hand. Building part of your menu around what you already own can trim your grocery bill and reduce food waste.

With a bit of advance planning, you can create a memorable Thanksgiving feast without overspending!