How I save money on thanksgiving dinner

       Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, but let’s be real it can get expensive! Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to enjoy all the cozy, delicious moments without emptying my wallet. Here’s my go-to guide for saving money during Thanksgiving. Hopefully, these ideas can help you, too!

1. Start Early and Keep a List Handy

 Every year, I start planning Thanksgiving as soon as those autumn leaves start falling! I keep a list on my phone with all the basics—turkey, sides, spices, and even paper goods. Starting early means I can shop sales as I see them and don’t end up panic buying everything at once. Plus, spreading out purchases is so much easier on my budget

Set a Budget and Stick to It

   

This one’s big for me! I set a budget for everything, from food to decor. It keeps me on track and prevents any impulse buys. There’s something satisfying about staying within budget and still having an incredible meal for everyone to enjoy.

3. The Great Turkey Hunt

 Finding a turkey deal is kind of like a personal challenge I give myself each year! This is one item I hold off on purchasing too early. (unless it's an incredible steal) Some grocery stores offer great discounts or even free turkeys with a certain spending threshold. If you can combine these deals with coupons and cashback sites you can strike gold! I keep an eye out for deals and grab the one that’s perfect for us.

Sales Are My Best Friend

 

One thing I love about starting early is being able to grab things on sale. When I spot canned goods or ingredients we’ll need on sale, I pick them up and tuck them away for Thanksgiving. This way, I’m not scrambling the week before, paying full price for everything. I like to make it fun by seeing how many deals I can score before the big day!

Cashback and Coupons to the Rescue!

 

  I swear by cashback sites like Ibotta and Brandclub to stretch my Thanksgiving dollars. Before I buy anything, I check to see if there are cashback offers, coupons, or special deals. It only takes a second, but it feels so good to know I’m getting something back on every purchase. I think of it as my little Thanksgiving gift to myself!

Store Brands All the Way

   

I’m all about finding quality, but store brands can be just as good as the name brands. I’ve discovered that things like flour, sugar, and cranberry sauce taste just as great as the store brand, but at a fraction of the price. And if I find a bulk deal on things we’ll use, even better!

Stick to Seasonal, Simple Recipes

  

 Every Thanksgiving, I focus on using seasonal ingredients that are affordable and easily available. Root veggies, collards, and are our go-to’s. I also try to make dishes that stretch and are easier to feed a crowd without spending too much

Going Potluck Style with Family and Friends

One of my favorite parts of Thanksgiving is sharing it with people I care about, so I make it a group effort! Every guest brings a dish, which not only saves me time and money but adds some amazing variety to the table. There’s something really special about a meal that everyone’s contributed to.

 

Nature-Inspired Decorations

  Instead of buying fancy decor, I like to use what’s around us. My kids and I have a blast collecting pinecones, acorns, and colorful fall leaves for table decor. I’ll sometimes add mini pumpkins or gourds which are usually a couple of dollars at my local Walmart for a centerpiece that doubles as ingredients later on. It’s simple, beautiful, and best of cheap and some free!

Make Leftovers Go the Distance

 

Thanksgiving leftovers are gold in my house! I have a little tradition of turning our turkey and sides into sandwiches, soups, and even tacos It’s a great way to ensure there won't be any waste.

In short, I’ve found that Thanksgiving doesn’t need to be extravagant to be wonderful. By using these little tricks, I can keep costs down while still creating a festive, cozy holiday for everyone. Hopefully, some of these ideas will help you enjoy Thanksgiving this year without the stress of overspending. Wishing you and your loved ones a warm, joy-filled holiday season! 

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