You moved in a few weeks ago, there are still boxes in the corner and somehow you agreed to host Thanksgiving. First: congratulations. A holiday is one of the best ways to turn a new house into a home.
Second: you do not need a perfectly unpacked house. You need a working kitchen, a place to sit and a plan. Here is how to get there.
Unpack in this order
- The kitchen. Pots, pans, baking dishes, knives, the roasting pan and serving dishes. Everything else can wait.
- The dining area. Table, chairs and a tablecloth. Borrow folding chairs if you need more seats.
- One bathroom for guests. Towels, soap, toilet paper and a small trash can.
- The living room. Clear a place to sit and watch the game. Boxes can go against a wall or into a closet.
Hide boxes the smart way
Stack leftover boxes neatly against one wall and throw a tablecloth or blanket over them. Instant side table, and nobody will notice.
Get to know your new kitchen first
Every oven is different, and the worst time to find out yours runs hot is with a 15-pound turkey inside. The weekend before:
New kitchen test run
- Bake something simple and check the oven temperature
- Make sure your roasting pan fits in the oven
- Test every burner and the oven fan
- Clear space in the fridge for the turkey
- Find the breaker panel and the water shut-off
- Stock up on foil, trash bags and paper towels
Don't forget the turkey thaw
A frozen turkey needs about one day in the refrigerator for every 4 to 5 pounds, according to the USDA. A 12-pound turkey needs about three days, so if you are reading this on Monday of Thanksgiving week, it is time to move it to the fridge. Bigger birds needed to start sooner. Put it on a tray on the bottom shelf so it does not drip.
Keep the menu simple
- Make it a potluck. Guests love to help, and it takes pressure off your new kitchen.
- Use disposable roasting pans if yours is still somewhere in a box.
- Cook ahead. Casseroles and pies can be made the day before.
- Plan the leftovers. Have containers ready so guests can take some home.
Make it feel like home
A few small things make a big difference: hang one or two pictures, put out candles, add a few pumpkins or flowers to the table and play some music. Give guests a quick tour, boxes and all. It is part of the fun.
Need help getting there? Our crew can unpack for you so the kitchen and dining room are ready fast, and our handy work service can assemble furniture and mount the TV before the game.
Moving Thanksgiving week?
Holiday weeks book up early, and the day before Thanksgiving has heavy traffic. If you can, move the week before so you have time to settle in.
Still planning your holiday move?
Our 2-mover crew is $129/hr with no travel fee, and packing and unpacking are billed at the same rate. Request a free quote and we will help you pick a date that leaves time to settle in.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to thaw a turkey in the fridge?
About one day for every 4 to 5 pounds, according to the USDA. A 16-pound turkey needs about four days in the refrigerator.
What should I unpack first in a new home?
Start with the kitchen, then beds and bathrooms. If you are hosting a holiday, add the dining table and chairs and one guest bathroom to the top of the list.