Guide to a Cozy Thanksgiving, No Matter The Economy
Photo credit: A Charlie Brown Thanksgivng
Thanksgiving happens every year, but this time it just feels different.
Maybe you're living in a different city than your family, working a job that barely covers rent, or dealing with the fact that the economy is giving major 2008 vibes, but somehow worse. And while many of us rely on the holidays to reconnect with family, we are now struck by the realities that come with them. The hidden costs of traveling, buying the Thanksgiving feast, or even the emotional burden of having to talk about your life, even when it hasn't been the best year.
But here's the thing: some of the best Thanksgivings weren't about the perfect spread or Black Friday deals. They were about showing up for each other when things were hard. And right now? That's precisely what we need.
Why This Year Feels Heavy
You're not imagining it. Between inflation making groceries feel like a luxury, student loans, stagnant wages, and even the cost of attending Thanksgiving, it feels like a lot. Plus, a lot of us are grieving the Thanksgivings we remember from childhood, when our biggest worry was whether we'd get stuck at the kids' table.
But those memories? They weren't just about the food or the house. They were about feeling safe, connected, and like we belonged somewhere. And we can still create that, even when our bank accounts are screaming.
(Friends)Giving is Community Care
If you can't make it home or home doesn't feel like home anymore, Friendsgiving isn't second place; it's its own tradition. Your chosen family gathering around a table is just as valid as any family dinner. It can be a relaxed vibe without overcompensating for the year's burden.
Potluck style, so no one person breaks their budget
Everyone brings what they can—even if it's just drinks or their presence
No pressure to perform or pretend everything is fine
Actually talking about what you're grateful for instead of avoiding conversations
This is how the community survives hard times. We share the load. We show up. We make it work together.
Recreate the Rituals, Not the Budget
What made Thanksgiving feel special growing up? Probably not the cost of the meal. It was:
The Macy's parade is playing in the background while people cook (still free on TV or streaming)
Football games or movies, everyone could half-watch together
Going around the table saying what you're grateful for (cheesy, but it hits)
Leftovers for days that made you feel abundant
Make It Multi-Generational (Even Virtually)
One of the most complex parts of growing up is realizing our grandparents and older family members won't be around forever. Suppose you can't be there in person, FaceTime them. Set up a laptop at the table. Let them see your friends. Let them tell the same stories again.
Not everyone can do the big gathering, and that's okay, too. A "Thanksgiving for one" can still feel special:
Make your favorite childhood dish, even if it's just that one side
Watch the parade or comfort movies
Call people you're grateful for instead of just texting
Treat yourself to one nice thing—a fancy coffee, a takeout meal, a cozy afternoon
Volunteer if you want to be around people and give back
You're allowed to grieve the Thanksgivings that used to be while still creating something meaningful now.
The Things That Actually Matter
Thanksgiving during hard times reminds us what the holiday was supposed to be about anyway:
Gratitude for what we have, even when it feels like not enough
Sharing resources instead of hoarding them
Making space at the table for people who need community
Keeping traditions alive in whatever form they can take
Being together in the mess of it all
Your childhood Thanksgivings probably weren't perfect either. You remember them through the soft filter of being young. What made them special was the people, the laughter, the feeling of being full (literally and emotionally).
You can create that now. It just looks different.
So invite your people. Make the cheap wine taste fancy by pouring it in regular cups with confidence. Burn the rolls a little. Laugh about it. Be grateful for what you have, including each other.
That's how we build community. That's how we remember we're not alone.
