Whether you've done it 10 times or never before, hosting a Thanksgiving gathering is stressful, time-consuming, and equally rewarding. You can be forgiven for pouring all of your attention on your more affordable Turkey and many side dishes , hoping the bird doesn't come out too dry or your favorite dessert a little too doughy. But, you run the risk of forgetting all of the other, non–food related tasks expected of a good host.
If you do forget about these tasks — everything that's not basting, seasoning, and stirring — discomfort can overshadow even the most delicious food. If there's nowhere to sit and eat, for example, how can anyone properly enjoy your cooking? The good news is that all of this vital, non-food Thanksgiving preparation can be done a day ahead or earlier and can be broken up into five easy-to-complete stations so you don't feel overwhelmed: seating, food, drinks, lounging, and kitchen. Non-food Thanksgiving preparations to complete before the big day Where your guests actually eat is of paramount importance.
If you have a large table, a gorgeous tablecloth, and the finest china, put it all out. If you need to set up some folding tables and chairs for a huge gathering, do it. Your guests should be able to sit down and eat the moment they arrive.
Next are the food and drink stations. These get rolled up in the seating station if you serve everything on a central table, but if you do Thanksgiving buffet style , figure out those logistics. Put your plates.
