Thanksgiving Traditions on the Farm

It’s that time of year again. Time to gather and celebrate all the things for which we are thankful, the most important being that we are actually able to gather again. 

And the first rule of the farm: when we gather, we eat!

If you live on a farm like us, most likely, your Thanksgiving Day includes feeding livestock and working the ranch. After all, it’s hard to get a day off on the farm!! But what we’re looking forward to the most after the work is done is to prepare that traditional holiday meal full of old farm favorites, plus a few new dishes we’ve been anxious to try. 

First things first — Let’s talk turkey 

Deep-fried, baked, or smoked. In our family, it’s a competition between all three, and the votes are always split evenly across the board. Or maybe you’re a ham family or even roast duck fans. No matter your favorite, the meat is the centerpiece, so take the opportunity to flaunt your skills! 

Of course, the table will be full of all the traditional casseroles. In fact, Thanksgiving is that one holiday that allows you to eat casseroles guilt-free! 

• green bean casserole
• corn casserole 
• sweet potato casserole
• broccoli casserole

The list goes on and on. Is there even a vegetable that doesn’t taste better when combined with cream of mushroom soup or sour cream? 

We say definitely not.

And who doesn’t have an opinion on the great stuffing or dressing debate? 

Spoiler alert: it’s dressing!

Don’t forget the fresh vegetables from the farm, though. This is the perfect meal to show off the fruits of your labor. To round out the thoroughly traditional Thanksgiving meal is the ever-dependable cranberry sauce, giblet gravy, and the homemade rolls of your choice. 

And dessert! 

What would Thanksgiving be without pies, pies, and more pies? Pecan, coconut, pumpkin, chess, apple, or rhubarb – you can’t go wrong.

This traditional Thanksgiving meal might be why this holiday is a family favorite.

But what about other favorite Thanksgiving traditions?  

Does your day include watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade? There’s no better way to get in the holiday spirit. 

What about a friendly game of football in the front yard or open field to work off that heavy meal? Or if you’re really ambitious, look for a 5K to get the day started.

If watching football is more your speed, the Thanksgiving Day games are always great. And sometimes, they even provide the perfect background for a good nap (that tryptophan is no joke. That’s our excuse, and we’re sticking to it)!

Have you been thinking about starting some new traditions for Thanksgiving? How about trying a new – even healthy – side dish? Google is your friend when you’re searching for ideas, and your family will love the addition. 

What about a trip? It’s a great time to load up the car and head out to explore some of those places in America you always wanted to see. 

Whatever Thanksgiving traditions you celebrate and new traditions you begin, this is sure to be a holiday to remember. We will no longer take the simple things for granted, and we proudly celebrate sharing these and other Thanksgiving traditions with family and friends. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

If you enjoyed this article, check out 6 Unique Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving With Loved Ones! and 8 Fall Decor Ideas For The Season Ahead!