It’s an annual obligation you might feel compelled to fulfill: the grand holiday feast. It’s often touted as a highlight of the season, but is it really? Do you actually relish it? For many, the anticipation can lead to significant stress, while the mere thought of certain family dynamics during the celebration can be daunting. Here’s a gentle reminder that holidays may not always be joyous, and why you might contemplate skipping this year’s festivities. (See also: 8 Techniques to Ease Holiday Stress)
1. Is there a need for two major feasts in such quick succession?
Firstly, consider this essential point for potentially bypassing the grand holiday event this year: there are indeed two of them.
Across the U.S., many people partake in Thanksgiving, followed closely by either Christmas or Hanukkah a month later. Both occasions typically involve gathering families and friends for a significant meal. Why not choose to forgo one and focus your efforts on the holiday that holds the most significance for your family? During Christmas, guests often become so engrossed in unwrapping gifts and playing with new toys that adding a big meal can feel burdensome. With numerous restaurants open throughout the holiday season, you can opt for dining out, ordering in, or whipping up something simple. Ultimately, it’s about enjoying time together, not just the food. (See also: 6 Alternative Ideas for Celebrating Thanksgiving)
2. The clean-up is quite the hassle
Picture the aftermath: large pans stained with grease, trays laden with remnants of potatoes and gravy, and heaps of dirty dishes accumulating. You might find yourself at the sink for hours rinsing, scraping, and preparing for the dishwasher. Even then, it’s unlikely all your dishes will fit in a single load, meaning you’re in for another round of clean-up after emptying the first. (See also: 10 Tips for Keeping Your Kitchen Tidy While Cooking)
3. Preparation is a lengthy undertaking
If you’re gearing up for Thanksgiving, you’re likely already devising a plan for the dinner. You probably have a list of dishes you’ll be making and coordinating what others will contribute. Numerous grocery runs will be necessary as you ensure that turkey is prepped correctly to avoid the dreaded dryness. Additionally, timing becomes crucial as you manage what goes into the oven and when, aiming for everything to be served hot. Organizing a meal of such scale involves considerable effort, which can be amplified by managing dietary restrictions and food allergies. (See also: You Can Host a Fun and Budget-Friendly Holiday Party — Here’s How)
Is all this stress truly worth it?
4. Avoid heated discussions
Since Donald Trump’s contentious election against Hillary Clinton, political polarization has intensified in America. While political discourse has its place, should it lead to family rifts and raised voices? More attendees often mean higher chances of fiery exchanges. Even if you implement a “no politics” rule, heated discussions are likely to arise among family members. Consider skipping the big dinner in favor of a more laid-back gathering, perhaps a buffet that allows guests to nibble casually throughout the day—thus avoiding contentious topics and irritable family members. (See also: 6 Conversation Strategies to Steer Clear of Political Talks)
5. The calorie overload is daunting
We all poke fun at the amount we consume over the holidays. “I’m going to eat so much this Thanksgiving, I’ll transform into a giant pumpkin!” But the reality is serious. The Calorie Control Council indicates that a typical holiday feast can amount to around 3,000 calories, not including the numerous snacks, drinks, and desserts enjoyed throughout the day. Additionally, traditional Thanksgiving recipes often lack healthy options, overflowing instead with rich ingredients like butter, heavy cream, and fats. The Council suggests that diners might consume enough fat on this day to equal three full sticks of butter. Yikes! (See also: 6 Tasty Vegetarian Thanksgiving Options)
6. Storage space is limited
As you begin your preparations, you might discover that your storage space becomes incredibly cramped due to the holiday meal. A turkey alone can take up significant fridge space, while fruits, vegetables, cakes, pies, and an assortment of snacks can crowd out the pantry. You could return home to find cookie boxes spilling over the counters and dining table. To make room for what will be served on the big day, you’ll have to quickly consume some of what’s already in stock. And brace yourself for even tighter spaces after the event, with heaps of leftovers and treats that guests didn’t get around to enjoying.
7. Not everyone appreciates large holiday festivities
Just like with anything, preferences about what constitutes an enjoyable event vary widely. For some, holiday dinners are more about dread than delight. They might dislike large gatherings altogether or wish to avoid specific individuals for personal reasons, only to find themselves seated with them for the evening. Financial costs or a preference for intimate gatherings with immediate family could also fuel reluctance. Consider sending out an anonymous survey to potential guests to gauge their interest in attending this year—you might be surprised by the responses. (See also: 8 Tips for a Comfortable Friendsgiving)
8. Travel expenses can add up
The average Thanksgiving meal for ten people runs about $50, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. Affordable, right? Well, that’s merely for the dinner itself—many find the travel costs to be the heftier burden. Not everyone’s family lives just a short drive away; some must undertake lengthy trips, spending on gas and likely needing hotel accommodations. Flying brings its own costs, including tickets, baggage fees, and seat selection. If accommodations at home are tight, you may end up paying for hotel rooms and possibly a rental car as well. It’s perfectly acceptable to communicate to loved ones that you’re budgeting and may not be able to attend this year. (See also: 11 Strategies to Cut Costs on Holiday Travel)
