7 Tips for Celebrating Thanksgiving Abroad

This blog post was updated on November 7, 2024.

Traveling during the holidays can be the perfect recipe for all sorts of complications — cranky family members, cranberry sauce that just won’t gel, or not enough room on the couch to nap are just a few examples. But when you’re traveling abroad during the Thanksgiving holiday, you’re likely to face a different set of issues. Honoring such an important holiday in a foreign country can be disorienting.

That’s why we want to help you with these tips to help you celebrate Thanksgiving abroad!

Check Dining Options Ahead of Time

Since it’s just a regular Thursday for the rest of the world, you shouldn’t expect special menus in restaurants. Hotels catering to Americans, however, may have turkey on the menu for the day! Call ahead and ask. They might even help you find a place that is helping out expats with some genuine Thanksgiving fare. If you’re staying in an apartment or villa — which is more economical if your family is big — then cooking your own dinner may be the next best thing when it comes to getting homey results.

Go Local

While we all miss the flavors of home. But you might take this opportunity to embrace the local cuisine, wherever you happen to be. That may mean incorporating local elements into your meal—have raclettes instead of mashed potatoes if you’re skiing in Switzerland, or couscous instead of stuffing if you’re sunning in Morocco. Who knows, you may find a new favorite tradition to bring home with you for next year!

Join up With Other Expats

Thanks to social media, it’s easy to find fellow American ex-pats in your new home. You can probably find a Facebook group or local associations specifically for Americans. If you find yourself craving a Thanksgiving celebration, your expat friends are the perfect resource. One of them might be throwing a Thanksgiving celebration and invite you to join. If that happens, make sure to offer to bring something to share. Or, if no one else is organizing anything, offer to hold a potluck. It’s a great way to connect for the holiday.

Attend a Local Cultural Event

Part of the joy of going abroad is learning about different customs and traditions. This can include harvest festivals, which are common in many parts of the world from Germany to the Philippines. While the tenor of the celebration may be different from what you are used to, chances are you’ll have a great time if you leave behind your expectations and go with an open mind. You might also consider concerts, sporting events, or local holiday celebrations and incorporate these into your new international Thanksgiving tradition.

Invite New Local Friends for Dinner

Maybe you’ve made some friends in your travels. Why not share your traditions with them? Many will probably be curious to learn about an American holiday. You can prepare a couple of the dishes you grew up with while encouraging them to bring whatever they’d like to share. The important thing is not the menu, but the sense of community and the laughter.

Order Ingredients Ahead of Time

If you know you’ll be craving traditional Thanksgiving foods, be aware that these may be hard to find locally. Not every country has turkeys, for example. These birds are native to the Americas, after all. Even if you can find them, they might be smaller than you’re used to. It also might be hard to scare up some cranberries, fresh or otherwise. Other foods, such as potatoes or green beans, will be easier to find. By planning your menu in advance and ordering ingredients early where possible, you’ll maximize the chances of having a feast you’ll enjoy.

Attend Your Family’s Thanksgiving Virtually

Thanks to the internet, it’s easier than ever to celebrate with your family even if you are thousands of miles away. Simply set up a Zoom or Skype session. Eat your own meal while they eat theirs. Due to the time difference, you might be having eggs while your family has dinner, or vice versa. However, the main thing is that you are enjoying the company of those you love. That’s what really matters.

FAQs:

Q: What if I can’t find a place serving Thanksgiving dinner?
A: If restaurants and hotels don’t offer Thanksgiving meals, consider hosting your own gathering. Invite other expats or locals to join you, creating a potluck atmosphere where everyone contributes a dish. This way, you can enjoy a festive meal and share your traditions.

Q: How can I find local markets for Thanksgiving ingredients?
A: Use apps like Google Maps or TripAdvisor to locate local markets and grocery stores. Additionally, join expat forums or social media groups to get recommendations from fellow Americans in your area for specialty food shops.

Q: What if I have dietary restrictions?
A: Communicate your dietary needs clearly, whether you’re dining out or hosting at home. If dining with others, consider bringing a dish that accommodates your restrictions. Don’t hesitate to ask restaurants about menu ingredients; many are willing to help.

Q: Can I celebrate Thanksgiving at a local restaurant?
A: Yes, many hotels and restaurants in tourist areas may offer Thanksgiving specials, particularly those that cater to American travelers. It’s advisable to check in advance and make reservations if possible.

Q: What are some non-traditional ways to celebrate abroad?
A: Consider activities like taking a cooking class that focuses on local cuisine, volunteering at a community event, or exploring local markets. The aim is to create meaningful experiences while embracing the culture around you.

Q: How can I keep my Thanksgiving traditions while overseas?
A: Embrace the opportunity to blend traditions. Cook traditional dishes while incorporating local flavors or customs. Capture moments through photos or journaling to keep your traditions alive even when far from home.

Q: Is it common for locals to know about Thanksgiving?
A: Awareness of Thanksgiving varies by country. In tourist areas, some locals may know about the holiday, but in more remote locations, it might be less familiar. Be prepared to explain its significance if you’re celebrating with locals.

Have you ever celebrated Thanksgiving abroad? Got any other tips? Let us know in the comments!