Take out extra tables, chairs, table linens, dinnerware, silverware, plastic ware, cups, place mats, and plates because Thanksgiving is here. Clear up some space, and make some room for a dance floor and for seating arrangements, as Thanksgiving is usually a huge family event! Music will be a must have, so arrange a playlist that you know everyone will like and hook up the sound system. Or you can hire a local band to play live music to add to the idea of a family oriented event.

Add some décor to your front door, patio, and throughout the house to enhance the mood; cornucopias, turkeys, pine cones, and everything brown, orange, yellow, and red such as balloons, streamers, and centerpieces to add to the festivities. Don’t forget to send out invitations early enough, so you can have an accurate head count to prepare as much food as you need. This way you can also create special place cards for each individual. Get out as many tables and chairs as you’ll need, and start to arrange them throughout the space; whether it is throughout the house, or out into the backyard. Gather some table linens that are appropriate for this time; Thanksgiving themed or of the traditional colors.

Most families like to cook their own Thanksgiving dinner, but if worst comes to worst and you need an alternative, there are always caterers on deck; but make sure you call ahead. Providing some sort of entertainment to keep the kids occupied will be best for everyone so that all can relax; a turkey themed jumper or bounce house, a turkey shaped piñata, or some games will do the trick.

Many people have the day off after Thanksgiving, and that particular day is what we call “Black Friday.” This day is also known as a day of outstanding retail deals; therefore it is a day of madness and crazy shoppers. If you aren’t the type to go sleep overnight in a tent while waiting in line outside of Best Buy, then there are some alternatives to spending your day off and observing your Black Friday in other ways.

Host your own cocktail party, where everyone comes dressed in black, because you know every woman has that “favorite little black dress.” Though it would be efficient to provide the leftovers from Thanksgiving dinner, provide something to eat besides that; maybe hold a vote on everyone’s favorite type of food, and then have it catered to add to the lavish effect of the party. Have a bar filled with beverages; soda, wine, alcohol, water and juices, to please your guests taste. You could even hire a bar staff so that you can enjoy the party yourself.

Considering that Christmas is an upcoming holiday, classical Christmas music would be a pleasant addition to this classic party. Hire a DJ who can play these enjoyable songs or rent out a standard jukebox that will set the mood of the evening. If you want to add some fun to the atmosphere, organize some games; whether they are board games like Monopoly, trivia games, or even casino games. Play with fake money and wager bets; make today something relaxing and enjoyable, not wild and crazy.