Tips to Celebrate Thanksgiving Safely

For many families, Thanksgiving is their most favorite holiday. It’s the one where the whole family gathers around the table, gets together for football games, and enjoys each other’s company over some good food and conversation. This year, traditional Thanksgiving gatherings will be different. So these are some tips that can help your family celebrate Thanksgiving safely.

Traveling

The CDC doesn’t recommend traveling for Thanksgiving. Traveling increases your chances of catching and spreading COVID-19. It is a must for your family to be careful at airports and even rest stops; these are all locations where you can become exposed to the virus. Try to limit guests to those who are already in your “circle” or “bubble,” this way, you’re already familiar with them, and they haven’t been in or around people in a higher risk area.

Gathering

When you do gather together as a family this Thanksgiving, keep these things in mind.

• Limit the number of guests
• Wear masks when you can
• Keep a distance of 6 feet from people who don’t live with you
• Don’t embrace people who don’t live with you like you typically would when greeting people
• Eat outside in a well-ventilated area
• Use single-serve condiments, plates, and utensils
• If you do have to gather indoors, have the windows open so you can refresh the air
• Wash your hands often
• Avoid touching your eyes, face, and mouth
• Use disposable napkins

If you can, host a virtual Thanksgiving. Not only will this decrease your chances of getting sick or spreading the virus, but it can keep you in contact with family members who are further away, and still celebrate Thanksgiving safely.

Finally, if you are sick, or have been in contact with someone who has been ill, do not attend any family events.