Getting together at the holidays is a special time to catch up with family and friends who you may not see very often throughout the year. Sometimes situations like these can make you stop and think, “What do I talk about at holiday gatherings?”. Here are a few ideas and tips for starting conversations, complimenting others, and successfully navigating the day.

Here are some ideas for things to say at Thanksgiving gatherings:

Compliment the food. Let the host or cook know how much you enjoyed the meal. Be specific about the dishes you liked best.

Share a funny story or anecdote. Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to gather and reminisce. Share a funny story or anecdote from your childhood or from a recent event.

Express your gratitude. Take a moment to express your gratitude for the people in your life. Let them know how much you appreciate their presence and support.

Ask about others. Show genuine interest in the lives of your family and friends. Ask them about their work, their hobbies, and their families.

Offer to help. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving, offer to help with the cooking or cleanup. If you’re a guest, offer to help with setting the table or clearing the dishes.

Listen actively. Be a good listener and show that you’re interested in what others have to say. Make eye contact, nod your head, and ask follow-up questions.

Avoid controversial topics. Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to come together and enjoy each other’s company. It’s best to avoid controversial topics such as politics or religion.

Have fun! Thanksgiving is a time for celebration and joy. Relax, enjoy the company of your loved ones, and have a wonderful time!

Here are some additional tips for making small talk at Thanksgiving:

Start with a common interest. Find something you and the other person have in common, such as a hobby, a sport, or a shared interest.

Ask open-ended questions. Open-ended questions encourage the other person to share more information about themselves.

Listen carefully. Pay attention to what the other person is saying and respond thoughtfully.

Be positive and upbeat. Focus on the positive aspects of the holiday and the people you’re with.

Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Be genuine and authentic in your interactions with others.

By following these tips, you can make small talk at Thanksgiving and create lasting memories with your loved ones. From our family-owned business to your family, we wish you a safe & happy holiday season.