Surviving Thanksgiving on a Budget

Holidays can kill a budget, and it’s not just the gift giving holidays. Thanksgiving may be the biggest food holiday there is, and food, as you know, costs money. I remember times when I would buy the food for my Thanksgiving menu and then wonder what money I would use to buy my normal groceries. Leftovers don’t last forever.

It takes some work and a little creativity, but you can do Thanksgiving on a budget. Here are some tips to help you keep your spending in check.

Limit the mouths you feed. The more the merrier is a nice concept, but it’s not the most affordable option. If you normally feed a larger crowd, cut back. Or, cook dinner for your immediate family and invite the extended family and friends for dessert and coffee during the football game.

Make your menu more affordable. Just about every local grocery store has turkeys on sale right now, but many of those sales come with conditions, like spending a specified amount in other groceries. If this does not fit into your budget, check the price of a turkey breast. Or, get packages of drumsticks and thighs. If you don’t like turkey, check into a pork loin or beef roast that may be more affordable. It is standard to plan for a half pound of meat per person. Also, cut back on the number of side dishes you serve or the number of desserts you prepare.

Do the math. Many grocery stores are offering pre-cooked Thanksgiving meals for a flat rate. Check to see if these are cheaper. They certainly save time, but time is money, which means you probably will pay more for this option. You won’t know until you do the math.

Ask your guests to bring food. If you’re determined to have a large crowd at your house for Thanksgiving, ask each guest to bring something specific, like a side dish, dessert or beverages. If you only have to buy the turkey, Thanksgiving is much more affordable.

Have dinner somewhere else. Perhaps this is your year to eat Thanksgiving dinner at another family member’s home. If someone invites your family to Thanksgiving dinner, consider accepting their invitation. Contribute to the dinner with a side dish or dessert, or offer to do the dishes as a token of thanks for their generosity.

Go to a restaurant. I have a friend whose family always goes to the same restaurant for Thanksgiving. It’s their tradition. Instead of having a huge crowd at your house, suggest everyone meet at a restaurant and pay their own way. Just be sure to make reservations.

It’s okay to cut back, even for Thanksgiving. It’s also okay to ask for help. Your family and true friends will understand, especially if you create a win-win situation for all parties involved. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving.