Q&A for How to Host a Thanksgiving Dinner

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How do you prepare turkey in advance?

Ollie George Cigliano
Private Chef & Food Educator
Ollie George Cigliano is a Private Chef, Food Educator, and Owner of Ollie George Cooks, based in Long Beach, California. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in utilizing fresh, fun ingredients and mixing traditional and innovative cooking techniques. Ollie George holds a BA in Comparative Literature from The University of California, Berkeley, and a Nutrition and Healthy Living Certificate from eCornell University.

Ollie George Cigliano

Private Chef & Food Educator

Expert Answer

Plan about 5 days ahead when it comes to prepping your bird. Get your turkey in advance, allowing it 3 days to defrost (if it's already frozen) in the fridge. If you're dry aging your bird, add an additional day; if you're brining (dry or wet), give yourself an extra day of prep as well.

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Question

Can I host Thanksgiving dinner as well as a football viewing party in my man cave?

Community Answer

Of course! Lots of people have simultaneous dinner/football viewing parties on Thanksgiving. Just plan ahead for how you want to time things so that people aren't cooking or eating during the games (unless you don't mind people eating around the TV).

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Question

Can I make mashed potatoes the day before?

Community Answer

Yes, you can. Just store them in the fridge and reheat them in the microwave when you're ready to serve them.

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Question

How long should a host wait before starting to do the dishes?

Community Answer

You should do the dishes when you want people to start making their way out the door. This is a way of telling people that the party is coming to an end. If the dishes are simply in the way, you can clear them after everyone has finished eating and offer coffee or another beverage and encourage your guests to talk amongst themselves while you quickly clean up.

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Do you keep your guests on the first floor if you own a house?

Community Answer

You can limit your guests to whatever areas of your home you wish. Some people give tours of their homes, others keep guests limited to the living and dining rooms.

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Do you have to RSVP to the host to let them know you’re coming to celebrate thanksgiving with them?

Community Answer

Yes, you definitely should.

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