Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and for many of us, a sense of uneasiness lingers in the air. 2025 has brought its fair share of uncertainties, ranging from the U.S. government shutdown to the temporary loss of SNAP benefits. So not everyone will have a turkey on their table, a white tablecloth or a spread of scrumptious sides.
But just because your holiday looks different from the “classic” version doesn’t mean it can’t be just as meaningful. Not everyone will have access to a traditional feast, or even a large group of loved ones to share it with. And that’s okay.
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to have a one-size-fits-all approach. After all, comparison is the thief of joy.
For some, the holiday might be a small gathering of close friends. Instead of an extravagant turkey dinner, it could be a potluck-style meal where everyone in attendance contributes one dish.
For others, it might mean going out to a local restaurant or enjoying a simple meal at home. And for some, Thanksgiving may be spent alone, watching football, bingeing a favorite show, journaling or taking a quiet walk outside.
There’s no one right way to celebrate, and finding what feels meaningful to you is what truly matters. Even for me, the idea of the holiday has evolved over the years. What was once a rather large family reunion slowly dwindled to fewer and fewer people.
At first, the change didn’t sit right with me, but as this year’s Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself ready and eager to embrace it differently. I’ve accepted that this holiday can look and feel new, and I’m reflecting on what truly matters: connection and gratitude, even if the table is smaller and the traditions have shifted.
Sometimes, the simplest gatherings, sharing a small meal, going for a walk or having a heartfelt conversation, leave the most lasting impressions. The beauty of a nontraditional Thanksgiving is that it gives space to be creative and have more intimate conversations that really matter.
And for anyone spending Thanksgiving alone, the day can still be meaningful. Solo celebrations can be an opportunity for reflection, journaling, self-care or indulging in a favorite hobby. There are still tons of ways to express gratitude.
Cooking a classic favorite dish, spending time with a pet, watching football, a sitcom or going outside to appreciate the changing season and take in the foliage. Even in solitude, the holiday can be full of gratitude and intention, reminding us that meaning doesn’t require a crowd.
Spending any holiday or birthday alone can feel isolating or revitalizing; however, as always, the beauty of it is that we have the power to shape the day however we desire. Thanksgiving doesn’t have a rule book that requires X amount of people and X amount of dishes.
The day leaves room for you to start your own traditions that may, in a sense, be untraditional. Remember this day, still has room for gratitude. Your version of the holiday is worthy, valid and enough.