Practice These Table Manners at Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones, diving into delicious food, and celebrating gratitude. But, let’s be honest – awkward moments at the dinner table can put a damper on even the coziest feast.
Whether it’s figuring out which fork to use or avoiding a conversation faux pas, good table manners can help everyone feel more at ease. And guess what? These aren’t just for Thanksgiving – they’re great to know for any meal, all year long.
Together, let’s review some practical and easy-to-follow tips to keep your dining game going strong.
Thanksgiving Table Manners
A big part of any meal is the conversation. So, let’s make it count! The key? Keep things light and engaging.
Skip the Drama: Thanksgiving is not the time to hash out debates on politics or controversial stuff. Chat about family memories, holiday traditions, or what everyone’s thankful for.
Listen as Much as You Talk: Show you’re interested by making eye contact, nodding, and not interrupting others as they’re speaking.
Take Turns Talking: Don’t hog the conversation spotlight. Let everyone have their moment to shine.
Watch Your Tone: Keep your voice friendly and calm. No one likes to shout over a meal.
Arrive and Settle In Smoothly
How you show up and take your seat says a lot about you – and sets the tone for the meal.
Be On Time: Arriving late can throw off the flow and stress out the host. If you’re running late, give them a heads-up.
Wait for the Green Light: Don’t plop down or dig in until the host says it’s time.
Help Out if You Can: If someone needs a hand – whether it’s grabbing their plate or finding a seat – be sure to lend one.
The Lowdown on Napkin Know-How
Your napkin isn’t just for wiping your mouth. It’s kind of a secret etiquette weapon.
Unfold and Place It: Once you sit down, pop that napkin on your lap. If you need to leave the table, set it on your chair – not the table.
Use iI Gently: Dab your mouth – don’t wipe like you’re scrubbing a countertop. And before you sip your drink, give your lips a quick pat.
Utensil Confidence: It’s Easier Than You Think
Do you remember that scene in Titanic when Jack asked Molly Brown what to do with all those utensils? She simply said, “Start from the outside and work your way in.” When in doubt, you can also mimic those around you. Still, having an idea of how to handle them makes you look like a pro.
Work From the Outside In: Back to Molly Brown. The utensils farthest from your plate are for the first course. Keep moving inward with each dish.
Knife and Fork Positions: Rest them in a V-shape on your plate when you’re taking a break. Finished? Place them parallel on the plate with the handles at 4:00.
No Utensil Waving: Don’t talk with a fork in hand. I’s a utensil, not a pointer.
Tackling the Thanksgiving Spread
Thanksgiving dinners can get a little hectic when it's serving time. Here are a few tips to help you keep the slow:
Wait to Dig In: Hold off on eating until everyone’s served and the host gives the go-ahead.
Pass to the Right: When someone asks for the gravy, hand it to your right instead of reaching across the table.
Start Small: Take reasonable portions the first time around. You can always go back for seconds.
Give Compliments: If you love the stuffing, pumpkin pie, or Thanksgiving table setting, let the cook know. It’ll make their day.
Eat Neatly (and Without Stress)
It’s easy to get carried away with all that tasty food, but a little care goes a long way.
Chew With Your Mouth Closed: Although this technically belongs under table manners for kids, believe it or not, some people still do it. The truth is, nobody wants a front-row seat to our turkey chewing.
Keep Bites Small: This makes eating easier and chatting in between bites less of a juggling act.
Don’t Multitask: Never talk with food in your mouth or sip your drink while still chewing.
Handle Inedible Bits Quietly: Got a bone or a seed? Use your fork to discreetly move it to the side of your plate.
Perfect Your Posture
How you sit at the table says a lot, even if we don’t realize it.
Sit Up Straight: Good posture shows you’re engaged and respectful.
No Elbows On the Table: At least while eating. After the meal? Sure, go for it.
Don’t Sprawl: Keep your arms and legs to yourself to avoid crowding your neighbors.
Made a Mistake? No Biggie – Fix It Gracefully
Nobody’s perfect. If you mess up, just handle it with a smile and move on.
Spill Something? Apologize, grab a napkin, and clean it up. No need to make it a big deal.
Don’t Like the Food? Take a small portion and leave the rest – no need to comment.
Grabbed the Wrong Fork? No worries. Just roll with it and switch to the right one next time.
Show Your Gratitude
Thanksgiving is all about being thankful, and that definitely extends to your host.
Say Thanks: A simple, “This was amazing. Thank you so much!” goes a long way.
Bring a Little Gift: It doesn’t have to be fancy – flowers, wine, or even homemade cookies are great.
Follow-Up: A thank-you note, text, or email the next day is a lovely gesture to show your appreciation.
Make It a Year-Round Thing
Thanksgiving is a great time to brush up on manners, but these tips are just as handy for any occasion.
Dining Out: Treat restaurant staff with respect, and follow basic table manners to make everyone’s experience better.
Everyday Meals: Even casual meals at home are a good chance to practice. Plus, it makes family dinners feel a little extra special.
Special Occasions: Weddings, work dinners, or a fancy event? These skills will leave you feeling confident and prepared.
Bon Appétit!
Good table manners aren’t about being fancy. They’re about making everyone feel comfortable and appreciated. Whether it’s chatting politely, using your utensils like a pro, or just saying, “Thank you,” these small gestures add up. This Thanksgiving, let’s bring our best selves to the table, and allow these habits stick with us long after the pumpkin pie is gone.
Speaking of which, keep coming back to check out our healthy and lifestyle pages. We’re updating them daily with recipes, shopping deals, and thanksgiving table ideas ideas to help you welcome the season of joy with a spirit of peace and happiness.