Ah, Thanksgiving—the holiday where we gather around tables piled high with turkey, stuffing, and all the fixings, then promptly collapse into a food coma. But as much as we love the feast, it’s the aftermath that really has our hearts (and bellies) racing. Here are seven things that always seem to make an appearance right after the Thanksgiving festivities wrap up.
1. Leftover Turkey Sandwiches

Let’s kick things off with the undisputed champion of post-Thanksgiving meals: the leftover turkey sandwich. There’s something magical about slapping some turkey between two pieces of bread, adding a dollop of cranberry sauce, and feeling like a culinary genius. You might even throw in some stuffing and gravy, if you’re feeling adventurous. Honestly, who needs a fancy deli when you’ve got the ultimate comfort food just waiting in your fridge?
2. The Great Debate Over “What to Do with Leftovers”
Speaking of leftovers, this is where the family discussions can get a little heated. Do you make a turkey pot pie? Maybe a casserole? Or just keep it simple and reheat everything for the next week? The world is your oyster—or in this case, your turkey. You’ll find yourself navigating the minefield of opinions, with Grandma insisting on her famous turkey soup recipe while Uncle Bob swears by his “special” turkey enchiladas. It’s all in good fun, but you’ll definitely want to take notes because you might want to put your own spin on it next year.
3. The Holiday Decorations Come Out
The turkey may have been the star of the show, but as soon as the last slice of pie is polished off, it’s like a switch flips. Suddenly, it’s time to deck the halls! Whether you’re a fan of the classic Christmas lights or the more avant-garde inflatable Santa, you can feel the holiday spirit creeping in. There’s something about the combination of a full belly and a cozy home that makes you want to hang ornaments and blast holiday tunes. Just remember, if you’re digging out those decorations, it’s not a race—enjoy the process!
4. The Return of the Family Game Night
After all that eating, what better way to bond than over a good old-fashioned board game? Once the tables are cleared, you can bet that Monopoly, Scrabble, or even that new game Grandma swears is “the best ever” will make an appearance. You’ll find yourself laughing, arguing, and maybe even forming some unexpected alliances. Just be prepared for a competitive spirit—it’s like the post-Thanksgiving tradition to see who can claim the title of “Game Night Champion.”
5. The Annual Holiday Movie Marathon
What’s Thanksgiving without a little cinematic magic? After a day of feasting and family, you’ll likely find everyone sprawled out on the couch, ready for the holiday movie marathon. Whether it’s classic flicks like “It’s a Wonderful Life” or newer favorites like “Elf,” nothing quite beats the cozy vibe of watching a film while still wearing your stretchy pants. Bonus points if you can convince someone to make popcorn and hot chocolate!
6. The Post-Thanksgiving Sales Frenzy
Ah, the sales! As soon as the turkey leftovers are tucked away, it’s like a shopping frenzy begins. Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday—it’s a whirlwind of deals that can make your head spin. You might find yourself scrolling online or waiting in long lines, all in the name of snagging that perfect gift for someone special (or maybe just for yourself). Just remember to take a breather and perhaps even indulge in a little self-care amidst the chaos of holiday shopping!
7. The New Year’s Resolutions Start Brewing
Last but not least, as the leftovers dwindle and the decorations go up, the thoughts of New Year’s resolutions begin to creep in. Maybe it’s time to hit the gym, eat healthier, or learn that instrument you’ve always talked about picking up. Whatever it is, the post-Thanksgiving fog often brings a renewed sense of motivation. You might even find yourself discussing plans with family members, all while eyeing that last slice of pumpkin pie. Because hey, even the best resolutions can wait until January, right?
So there you have it! Thanksgiving may come and go, but it leaves a trail of delightful traditions and activities that keep the spirit alive. Whether it’s munching on leftovers, or diving into family games.
More from Vinyl and Velvet:



Leave a Reply