How to Enjoy a Thanksgiving-Style Feast in the UK

We said we would and here it is! A simple guide for Brits who want to celebrate American Thanksgiving at home.

Thanksgiving may be an American holiday, but there’s no reason we can’t enjoy a cosy, delicious version of it here in the UK. 

Whether you’re honouring American friends or family, embracing a new tradition, or simply fancying a hearty feast before December begins, recreating Thanksgiving at home is easier than you might think.

Here’s how to put together a warm and welcoming Thanksgiving celebration using ingredients, swaps, and ideas easily available across the UK.

Start with the Essentials: What You Actually Need

A British take on Thanksgiving doesn’t require a huge house, a massive turkey, or a cupboard full of hard-to-find American ingredients. You just need:

A roast-style main

A few comforting sides

Something sweet and autumnal

A sense of togetherness

Think of it as a “preview Christmas dinner” with an American twist.

Choosing Your Thanksgiving Main

Turkey

You can get whole turkeys in late November, though they’re not as common. Larger supermarkets sometimes stock them, and turkey crowns are often available year-round.

Chicken

A great, budget-friendly alternative if you’re feeding a smaller group.

Ham

In many American households, glazed ham joins the turkey. A honey-roast joint works perfectly.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

A mushroom Wellington, nut roast, or plant-based roast makes an excellent centrepiece.

Classic Sides – with Simple UK-Friendly Swaps

Mashed Potatoes

No changes needed – just make a big fluffy bowl and serve with plenty of gravy.

Stuffing

American families often use cornbread stuffing. In the UK, sage-and-onion stuffing works beautifully.

Sweet Potato Dish

If you want to go full American, bake them with brown sugar and marshmallows.

If that feels too sweet, roasted sweet potatoes with paprika or cinnamon give a more British balance.

Green Bean Casserole

This dish is traditionally made with cream-of-mushroom soup and crispy fried onions.

You can recreate it easily with:

Tinned mushroom soup

Frozen green beans

Crispy onions from the salad aisle

Cranberry Sauce

We already embrace this at Christmas, so a jar from the supermarket works perfectly.

Mac and Cheese

A Southern Thanksgiving staple and easy to make ahead. It also pairs surprisingly well with roast turkey.

Desserts Made for British Kitchens

Pumpkin Pie

Canned pumpkin purée is widely available in UK supermarkets from October to December.

Alternatively, sweet potato pie offers nearly the same flavour and is simpler to make using fresh British-grown potatoes.

Pecan Pie

Rich, sticky, and ideal if you want a showstopper. Pecans are readily available in the baking aisle.

Apple Pie

If all else fails, a classic British apple pie fits right in.

Make It Feel Like Thanksgiving – Without Overthinking It

1. Share Things You're Grateful For

This is the heart of the holiday. Go round the table and let everyone say something positive from the past year.

2. Watch an American Film or Show

Plenty of programmes have iconic Thanksgiving episodes:

Friends

How I Met Your Mother

Modern Family

3. Put on the Parade in the Background

NBC broadcasts the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which is often available on streaming services or YouTube afterwards.

4. Use It as the Moment You “Kick Off Christmas”

Many Americans start decorating for Christmas right after Thanksgiving – a perfect excuse to bring out the fairy lights.

Easy UK Shopping List for a Thanksgiving Meal

Here’s a quick guide to items you can easily source locally:

Supermarkets:

Turkey crown/chicken/ham

Mashed potato ingredients

Stuffing

Cranberry sauce

Sweet potatoes

Frozen green beans

Tinned mushroom soup

Crispy onions

Macaroni and cheese ingredients

Pumpkin purée (seasonal)

Pecans

Ready-made apple or pecan pie

Speciality/American shops (optional):

Marshmallows for sweet potato topping

Cornbread mix

American-style gravy mixes

Pumpkin pie spice

A Lovely New Tradition for British Homes

Bringing Thanksgiving into a British household doesn’t require authenticity – just warmth, good food, and a moment to pause before the Christmas rush begins. 

Whether you recreate the full American feast or simply make a toasted pumpkin pie to enjoy with a cup of tea, a British Thanksgiving can be a charming addition to your festive calendar.

A Brit’s Guide to the History of American Thanksgiving

Discover the origins, traditions, and festive feasts of one of America’s biggest holidays.

When late November rolls around, our friends across the Atlantic begin preparing for a celebration that rivals Christmas in scale, excitement, and indulgence: Thanksgiving. 

Although it isn’t traditionally observed here in the UK, many of us have become increasingly curious about the holiday, especially as American films, TV, and social media offer us glimpses of huge turkeys, pumpkin pies, and enormous parades winding through city streets.

Here’s a friendly guide to what Thanksgiving is all about, how it began, what Americans typically eat, and why the parades are such a huge part of the day.

Where Thanksgiving Began: A Brief History

The first widely recognised Thanksgiving celebration took place in 1621 in Plymouth, Massachusetts. English Puritan settlers—known as the Pilgrims—had endured a harsh first winter in the New World. With much of their colony lost to illness and hunger, survival looked uncertain.

By autumn 1621, however, they harvested their first successful crops with the help of the Wampanoag people, an Indigenous nation who taught the newcomers essential farming and foraging skills. In thanks, the Pilgrims held a three-day feast alongside the Wampanoag. It wasn’t called “Thanksgiving” at the time, nor was it repeated annually, but the idea laid the foundation for the tradition.

It wasn’t until 1863, during the American Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday dedicated to gratitude and unity. In 1941, it officially became fixed on the fourth Thursday of November, where it remains today.

The Heart of the Celebration: The Thanksgiving Feast

Much like Christmas dinner here in the UK, the Thanksgiving table is where families gather, recipes are closely guarded, and portions become delightfully excessive. Although dishes vary by region and family tradition, several classics are almost always present:

Turkey

The centrepiece. Usually roasted, sometimes brined, occasionally deep-fried in the southern states. It’s the star of the show.

Stuffing (or Dressing)

Often cooked separately and flavoured with herbs, sausage, or cornbread, depending on local traditions.

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery, and topped with gravy—non-negotiable for most households.

Sweet Potatoes

In many homes, they’re baked with brown sugar and—most surprising to Brits—topped with marshmallows.

Green Bean Casserole

A comforting dish made with green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy onions.

Cranberry Sauce

Homemade or from a tin, much like our Christmas cranberry traditions.

Pumpkin Pie (and its cousins)

Dessert is often a selection of pumpkin, pecan, and apple pies, each flavoured with warm spices that make the whole house smell like autumn.

For many Americans, the meal is as symbolic as it is enjoyable. It’s about family, gratitude, and taking a moment to pause before the hectic run-up to Christmas.

The Iconic Thanksgiving Parades

One of the most spectacular parts of Thanksgiving happens long before the turkey reaches the oven: the Thanksgiving Day parades. These enormous, colourful processions attract millions of viewers both in person and on television.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

The most famous of all parades takes place in New York City, and has been running since 1924. Expect giant character balloons (Snoopy, Pikachu, and many others), marching bands, dancers, enormous floats, and a grand finale featuring Father Christmas—marking the official start of the American festive season.

Other Major Parades

Cities such as Chicago, Detroit, and Philadelphia also host major parades, each with its own style and traditions. For many families, watching the morning parade on television is as essential as carving the turkey.

A Holiday That Opens the Festive Season

For Americans, Thanksgiving serves as the gateway to Christmas. The following day, Black Friday, marks the beginning of holiday shopping, and homes across the USA put up their decorations during Thanksgiving weekend.

Here in the UK, we may not celebrate Thanksgiving ourselves, but its warmth, traditions, and sense of community resonate strongly with the spirit of Christmas. Whether you’re exploring festive recipes or simply curious about the origins of this vibrant holiday, Thanksgiving offers a lovely way to connect with friends and family around the world.

Want to see how you can celebrate Thanksgiving at home? We'll cover that in a little while.

How Should a Brit Celebrate Thanksgiving? A Festive Guide for Curious UK Households

Discover how Brits can celebrate Thanksgiving with UK-friendly dishes, clever ingredient swaps, and cosy seasonal touches in this festive guide from That’s Christmas 365.

Thanksgiving may not be a traditional British celebration, but plenty of us enjoy the idea of a cosy autumn feast, a moment to pause before the Christmas rush, and a chance to borrow a little of that warm, familial American tradition. 

Whether you’re hosting your first UK-based Thanksgiving or simply fancy an excuse for a hearty meal, here’s how you can recreate the spirit of the holiday – with a few clever British twists.

What Thanksgiving Means – and How Brits Can Join In

At its heart, Thanksgiving is about gathering with loved ones, enjoying seasonal food, and taking a moment to reflect on the good things in life. You don’t need to adopt the full American calendar to enjoy that. Think of it as an autumnal pre-Christmas warm-up: comfort food, candles glowing, and a grateful toast across the table.

You can keep the day relaxed and festive. Invite friends or family round, light a few seasonal-scented candles, and enjoy the slower pace before December becomes all mince pies, mulled wine, and frantic shopping.

What Foods Should Brits Serve for Thanksgiving?

Americans centre their feast around a few classic dishes. Many translate perfectly to UK kitchens; others need a little adapting.

1. The Main Event: Turkey (or Alternatives)

A traditional roast turkey is standard, but you don’t need to replicate an American-sized bird. A crown works well for a smaller gathering.

If you’d rather skip turkey altogether (especially if you’re keeping it for Christmas), try roasted chicken, slow-cooked beef brisket, or a veggie alternative like mushroom Wellington.

2. Mashed Potatoes – No Swap Needed

Brits make superb mash. Add a generous amount of butter, a splash of milk or cream, and a bit of nutmeg for a slightly richer, holiday feel.

3. Stuffing

American stuffing often includes cornbread – not something that always pops up on UK shelves.

Swap: Use a good quality sage and onion stuffing, or make your own with sourdough, herbs, butter, and onions.

Add cranberries or chopped apples for that classic sweet-savory style.

4. Sweet Potato Casserole

An American favourite, topped with marshmallows (yes, really). Sweet potatoes are easy to get here, and the rest is simple.

If marshmallows feel a bit too… much…

Swap: Use a pecan crumble topping rather than marshmallows. It’s elegant, crunchy, and far more British-friendly.

5. Green Bean Casserole

A staple dish in the USA, but cream of mushroom soup (the key ingredient) differs slightly here.

Swap: Use any standard condensed mushroom soup or make a simple creamy mushroom sauce from scratch.

Fried onions for the topping can be replaced with crispy shallots or even French’s style onions if you can find them online.

6. Cranberry Sauce

Easily found in UK supermarkets this time of year.

To make it feel more “harvest feast” than “Christmas dinner,” add orange zest and a dash of cinnamon.

7. Pumpkin Pie

The defining Thanksgiving dessert, though tinned pumpkin isn’t always easy to find in smaller UK shops.

Swap:

Use roasted butternut squash purée (it tastes almost identical once spiced).

A spiced apple pie or pecan pie also fits the theme perfectly if you want a simpler option.

Other American Dishes You Can Easily Recreate

Biscuits (American scones): UK scones minus the sugar work nicely. Serve with gravy.

Mac and cheese: Creamy, indulgent, and widely loved on both sides of the Atlantic.

Cornbread: Can be made from scratch with polenta if you can’t find boxed mixes.

Drinks to Serve

Thanksgiving drinks tend to be warming and autumnal:

Spiced apple cider (our version is non-alcoholic; add rum if you like)

Mulled apple juice

Brown ales or amber ales

A nice bottle of red for the table

Pumpkin spice lattes for fun

Decorations and Atmosphere

Because Thanksgiving sits so close to Christmas, you can keep things simple:

Warm autumn colours (gold, amber, deep red)

Pumpkins or gourds if you still have any leftover from October

Candles or fairy lights

A table set with rustic linens and seasonal foliage

It’s cosy, relaxed, and not nearly as formal as a Christmas dinner.

A Thanksgiving the British Way

There’s no right or wrong way to celebrate Thanksgiving as a Brit. Think of it as a chance to enjoy great food, good company, and a welcome moment of calm before December begins in earnest.

You can follow American recipes closely, or add your own British touches. Serve a full turkey feast, or simply host an autumn supper with gratitude at its core. The whole charm of celebrating Thanksgiving in the UK is that you can make the holiday your own.

I am truly blessed that my "day job" employer is based in the USA and invites all employees to enjoy Thanksgiving by having a day off in honour of the occasion. 

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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