As Thanksgiving approaches, many people are exploring alternative ways to celebrate. Whether it’s due to dietary preferences, ethical considerations, or simply a desire to try something new, there are plenty of exciting alternatives to the traditional Thanksgiving feast.
Having an alternative Thanksgiving with a special focus on creating a vegan meal, not only can be delicious, but it also fosters a sense of gratitude and respect for animals. We will also explore creative ways to involve children in the preparation of the food as well as the table, making the holiday a memorable and enriching experience for everyone from the family to the invited guests.
Respecting Animals and Teaching Children
Beyond the delicious food, Thanksgiving is an ideal time to instill values of compassion and respect for animals in children. Engaging them in the preparation process can be both educational and fun.
The Vegan Thanksgiving Feast:
Embracing a vegan Thanksgiving is not only a compassionate choice but also an opportunity to explore a diverse and flavorful array of plant-based dishes. From appetizers to desserts, there are countless options that will leave your guests impressed and satisfied.
– Made in a ramekin and baked with a beautiful vegan biscuit on top makes for a perfect entrée filled with carrots, peas and onions.
Stuffed Acorn Squash
– Roasted acorn squash halves filled with a delicious mixture of quinoa, cranberries, and pecans.
Mushroom Wellington
– A savory pastry filled with a medley of mushrooms, spinach, and herbs, wrapped in flaky puff pastry.
Vegan Mashed Potatoes
– Creamy mashed potatoes made with plant-based butter and non-dairy milk.
Cranberry Orange Sauce
– A refreshing twist on the classic cranberry sauce with the addition of citrusy orange flavors.
Pumpkin Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream
– A delectable vegan pumpkin pie topped with luscious coconut whipped cream.
Creative Table Setting
There are so many different ways to get the kids involved with setting up the environment. One of those ways is utilizing their skills in creating the table setting. Just think about all of the different milestones these kids can use as they are setting the table for this Thanksgiving meal!
– Use butcher paper as tablecloths and provide crayons at each child’s place setting. Children can draw and color, creating a personalized and festive atmosphere.
Paper Woven Placemats
– Foster children’s skills in self-esteem, language development, cutting, and fine motor skills by having them create paper woven placemats. These handmade placemats add a unique touch to the table.
Grateful Tree Activity
– Set up a “Grateful Tree” on the table with paper cutouts of fall-colored leaves and pencils at each setting. Encourage guests, especially children, to write something they are thankful for on the leaves. Collect the leaves in a bowl and later have the host read them aloud and attach them to sticks or twigs in a glass vase.
Handprint Turkey Placeholders
– Children can make simple but adorable handprint turkeys as placeholders for each guest. Write the guest’s name on the turkey, and watch as the children beam with pride at their contributions to the celebration.
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, reflection, and connection. By embracing alternative meals and incorporating meaningful activities, such as the Grateful Tree and creative table settings, as well as making a felt board story for your little ones to help teach colors, families can cultivate a sense of togetherness and appreciation for both the delicious food on the table and the values that bind us, while teaching respect for animals and life. This Thanksgiving let’s celebrate not only the bounty of the harvest but also the bonds we share with each other and the world around us.
