Thanksgiving Dinner Survival Guide: 8 Essential Tips

Have a Go-To Topic Bank

You know the moment: someone starts steering the conversation toward politics, and you can feel the tension rising. Instead of panicking, have a mental list of light, go-to topics ready. Think:

“Did you see that adorable dog video on TikTok?”

“What’s everyone watching on Netflix these days?”

“Who’s excited for dessert?”

These non-controversial questions can redirect the vibe when things start veering into dangerous territory. Bonus: everyone loves talking about TV or dessert.

Set Boundaries Before You Even Arrive

If you know certain topics are off-limits for you (hello, relationship status or career choices), be proactive. Let your family know ahead of time—or rehearse some polite ways to shut down those conversations. Try:

“Oh, let’s not dive into that today! Tell me about your latest hobby instead.”

“I appreciate your concern, but I’d rather not talk about that right now.”

You’re allowed to protect your peace.

Bring a Wingperson

If you’re lucky enough to have a sibling, cousin, or even a partner who gets you, enlist them as your Thanksgiving dinner wingman or wingwoman. Agree to have each other’s backs in case things get awkward. Think of it as a buddy system for family gatherings. Need a save from Aunt Karen’s relentless questioning? Your wingman can swoop in with, “Hey, we need you in the kitchen!”

Become the Entertainment Director

The best way to avoid uncomfortable silences or tense debates? Keep everyone busy. Bring a board game, suggest a group activity (like writing things you’re grateful for on slips of paper), or help out in the kitchen. Keeping people entertained shifts the focus and prevents arguments from brewing. Plus, a little fun never hurt anyone!

Master the Art of the Fake Bathroom Break

Sometimes, the best way to diffuse an awkward situation is to step away for a moment. Excuse yourself to the bathroom (or another quiet corner) and take a breather. Deep breaths, a quick scroll through your phone, or just a moment of silence can help you recharge before heading back into the fray.

Keep Calm and Focus on the Food

If things do heat up, resist the urge to jump into an argument. Instead, channel your inner zen and try to diffuse the situation. Say something like:

“I think we can agree to disagree on this one.”

“Let’s focus on the turkey—it’s amazing this year!”

Staying calm when others are spiraling can often bring the energy back down. Plus, you’ll come off as the cool, collected one.

Offer to Be the Helper

Volunteering to carve the turkey, refill drinks, or wash dishes might not sound glamorous, but it’s the perfect excuse to avoid tricky conversations. It also gives you something productive to focus on while keeping you busy in case the dinner table turns into a debate stage.

Remember Why You’re There

At the end of the day, Thanksgiving is about gratitude and connection. Focus on the positives—like the fact that Grandma made your favorite pie or your cousin’s hilarious laugh still gets you every time. Find those moments of joy, even if they’re small, and lean into them. Gratitude isn’t just for show; it’s a mindset that can make the day a lot more bearable.

Thanksgiving dinner doesn’t have to feel like a battle you have to win—it’s more like a game of strategy. With a little planning, you can make it through the holiday in one piece. And who knows? You might even have some fun.