Bringing Thanksgiving to the UK: How to Host a US-Style Dinner for American Friends or relatives

Thanksgiving may not be a British tradition, but it’s a treasured American celebration rooted in gratitude, family, and feasting. 

For Brits with American friends, neighbours or American family members living in the UK, staging a Thanksgiving dinner is a heartfelt way to make them feel at home. 

Whether they’re missing pumpkin pie or the camaraderie of the entire day, your gesture can mean the world. Here’s how to host a truly authentic (and memorable) US-style Thanksgiving right here in Britain.

1. Learn the Thanksgiving Essentials

Thanksgiving falls on the fourth Thursday of November. (The 28th, this year!) It’s a day for Americans to reflect on gratitude while gathering with loved ones. The feast is the centrepiece, with dishes like roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie taking pride of place. 

For many, it’s also about football (the American kind) and watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Do a little homework about the holiday’s origins and significance—it’s a thoughtful way to show you understand the spirit of the day.

2. Plan the Menu

The food is the star of the show, so a traditional Thanksgiving menu is essential. Many key ingredients are available in the UK, but a bit of creative sourcing might be needed:

Turkey: A large roast turkey is non-negotiable. Many butchers in the UK can supply one for this time of year if you pre-order.

Stuffing: Opt for classic American-style flavours, such as sage, sausage, and cornbread (you can make cornbread from scratch if needed).

Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows: Yes, it sounds strange to us Brits, but this sweet and savoury dish is a Thanksgiving staple.

Pumpkin Pie: Canned pumpkin purée is available in many supermarkets and online, making this iconic dessert achievable. Alternatively, a pecan pie is a great substitute.

Be sure to ask your American friends about their family traditions. Every household does Thanksgiving a little differently, and they might love to share their recipes with you.

3. Decorate with Warmth

Thanksgiving décor is all about autumnal charm. Use warm colours like orange, gold, and deep red. Arrange pumpkins, gourds, and candles on the table, and perhaps add a centrepiece of autumn leaves or a cornucopia. Simple but thoughtful touches will create the right atmosphere.

4. Share the Gratitude

One of the most touching Thanksgiving traditions is going around the table and sharing what everyone is thankful for. It’s a moment of connection that encapsulates the holiday’s essence. Encourage your guests to participate, and don’t forget to share your own thoughts—it’s a lovely way to build bonds and make the evening special.

5. Include Some Entertainment

If you have a TV, put on some American football or a replay of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to capture the ambience. You could also plan a quiz or play board games to keep the festivities lively.

6. Be Mindful of Homesickness

Thanksgiving can be an emotional time for those far from home. A kind word or a familiar dish might help ease the pangs of homesickness. Your effort in hosting the meal will already mean a great deal, so don’t worry about perfection—it’s the thought that counts.

7. Send Them Home with Leftovers

Leftovers are a big part of the Thanksgiving experience. Pack up some turkey, pie, and sides for your guests to enjoy the next day—it’s a simple but thoughtful way to prolong the joy of the holiday.

By hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for your American friends, you’re not only offering them a taste of home but also showing how much you value their friendship. In return, you might even find yourself falling in love with the warmth and togetherness of this uniquely American holiday.

So don your apron, embrace the pumpkin pie, and get ready to share a day of gratitude and good food—it’s a tradition worth celebrating, no matter where you’re from.

The genesis for this post? My "day" job is based in the USA and my employer very kindly gives all staff, even those in the UK, South Africa, etc, the Thanksgiving break. So my wife and I honour this kindness by hosting out own mini Thanksgiving event here in the UK.

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