9 Ways to Save Money Hosting Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, but have you started thinking about what you are going to cook?

Thanksgiving is one of the most popular holidays for Americans. It is a wonderful holiday for many people. It’s a time to gather with family and friends and to give thanks for everything that we have. Inviting everyone over can be expensive, so here are some ways to save money and still host an amazing Thanksgiving.

There are plenty of ways to save money this Thanksgiving without giving up on all the traditional festivities too, find out how with these nine tips.

1. Make Thanksgiving A Potluck To Save Money

One of the easiest ways to save is by hosting it potluck style! Potlucks can be a great way to save money and time. People bring everything from the dessert to the many sides Thanksgiving is known for, for dinner for everyone else.

There’s something really magical about sharing food with others.

You’ll never know who might want to come over for Thanksgiving dinner if you ask around! Plus, you’ll have more people helping out with the cooking and carving.

2. Shop Sales And Take Advantage Of Coupons And Price Matching

Towards the end of the year, there are always tons of sales and coupons out there that can help you save. But you have to take the time to look. Don’t just go grocery shopping and hope what you need is on sale.

Do a bit of recon beforehand, check the sales ads for your preferred store in the month leading up to Thanksgiving. That way you can stock up on what you’ll need as the items go on sale.

Finally, check manufacturers’ sites for any coupons they offer that aren’t specific to a store.

3. Think Ahead With Leftovers

Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful. And what better way to show your gratitude than by cooking up leftovers.

Just because you’re hosting doesn’t mean you need to send everyone home with leftovers. Eating leftovers can be a money saver year-round. But sometimes the richness of Thanksgiving dishes can get old, fast. 

To maximize your leftover use, plan ahead with recipes that incorporate your leftovers. That way you aren’t stuck eating the same thing for a week straight.

Bonus Tip: Use the leftovers in meal prep for your freezer

4. Use Natural Or Cheap And Easy DIY Decor For Thanksgiving To Save Money

One of the many ways to save money this holiday season is by using natural or cheap and easy DIY decor for Thanksgiving.

All you need to do is take a look at nature for inspiration such as leaves, pinecones, or berries. You can also use your kitchenware like mixing bowls, dishes, and candle holders. Or visit your local dollar store or thrift shop for pieces you can create.

5. Boxed Wine Is Fine Or Skip The Booze

Wine can be pricey, but it doesn’t have to be!

Boxed wine recently started gaining popularity recently because of its convenience and cost-effectiveness.

Boxed wine can be a great alternative for a host who wants to save some money on hosting a Thanksgiving dinner. Or you can skip the wine altogether, stick to water or get seasonal with some cider. You may even find that your guest will bring wine anyway.

6. Go Off Brand 

Not being tied to a specific brand for food can save you some serious dough. When shopping, before grabbing your normal item, look up and down to see if there is a different brand that costs less. 

Note: You should avoid buying products that are labeled WIC if you can. 

7. Time The Cooking Right To Save On Energy Costs

Thanksgiving is a time when we can take out our old recipes and enjoy them with family and friends. You don’t want to get everything ready hours beforehand and then waste utilities keeping it all warm for an hour or more.

Not sure how to time everything? Check out this post with tips on how to plan your cooking out.

8. Use What You Have To Save Money At Thanksgiving

Before running to the store to stock up on what you may need, do a thorough check of your kitchen and pantry. This will ensure that you’re not spending more on items you already have.

9. Borrow Stuff From Friends And Neighbors

Borrowing dishes is another way to cut down on costs for Thanksgiving dinner. You don’t need to buy dishes or serving plates if you can borrow them for free. 

Check with your neighbors, friends, and family members to see what they’re doing with their dishes this Thanksgiving. Maybe they’re going out of town and have no problem lending you a gravy boat.

Bottom Line

The good thing about Thanksgiving is that it’s a time for family, friends, and food. But the bad news is that it’s also a time when your wallet can get really low due to all of the shopping and cooking. 

Luckily, there are some ways to save money on Thanksgiving while still enjoying yourself. Hopefully, these nine tips will help you to save some money on hosting a great Thanksgiving dinner.