What You Need To Know About Hosting Thanksgiving During The Pandemic

Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays. There's a lot of reasons to love Thanksgiving — the incredible food, time with family, and a day to just enjoy yourself. Did we mention stuffing? Because let's be honest that this is some of the best food we eat all year. Americans have been celebrating this beloved holiday for nearly 160 years, according to the National Archives. However, this tradition might look a little different this year because of the pandemic. Many families are wondering if they should host a gathering at their house at all. 

Dr. Sharon Nachman, division chief for Infectious Diseases at Stony Brook Children's Hospital, stressed to Delish if you are going to host this year, safety is crucial, but the holiday and spending time with loved ones is still important. "I think the right answer as a start should be great, we can accomplish this," Dr. Nachman said. "We need to do this. Now, let's figure out how best to do it."

Nachman suggests limiting the number of people you invite and asking them to quarantine for two weeks prior. The CDC states that quarantine helps prevent the spread of the disease, especially when someone doesn't know they're sick. Nachman also said you should get a better idea of what safety precautions potential guests have taken. "The last thing you want to do is have someone that's completely not careful mixing with someone who's incredibly careful because they have to be," she warned.

If you're hosting, it's also important to follow the guidelines we've previously been given. Dr. Amy Price, a scientist at Stanford, explained that wearing a mask is still key. "Trapping droplets with the mask means not nearly as many viral particles escape," Price told Stanford Medicine. "So, when all parties in a gathering are wearing well-constructed, well-fitting masks, it provides an extra layer of safety for everyone."

Even though it's tough to not hug your loved ones, Nachman explained it's essential to keep at least six feet apart during Thanksgiving. She also suggests having your feast outside if you're able to, and making everyone's plate for them. This ensures nobody is bumping into each other, while rushing over to grab some turkey. Lastly, make it clear to your guests if they're feeling even slightly sick on the day of your gathering, they should stay home. This is not the time to power through not feeling well.