Thanksgiving is often synonymous with turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, but the reality is not everyone finds turkey to be the star of the show—or even appealing for their holiday feast. With prices of traditional Thanksgiving dishes fluctuated and taste preferences diversifying, many are opting for alternative culinary traditions or completely different dishes altogether. From unique family traditions to modern twists on the classic menu, the spirit of Thanksgiving is being reshaped year by year.
At Orange Coast College, students shared some of their unique Thanksgiving traditions, with many straying from the usual turkey setup. Lex Acevez, who studies Radiologic Technology, embraces her family’s Mexican heritage by incorporating dishes like tamales and pozole during Thanksgiving. “With my mom’s side of the family, we’ve got our traditional foods,” Acevez explained, but noted her smaller gatherings with just her parents feature more Americanized choices like ham and potatoes. This blend of culinary traditions perfectly encapsulates the melding of cultures around the dining table.
Similarly, Julia Hendershot, studying Psychology, holds onto her family's Italian roots by enjoying shrimp as part of their Thanksgiving meal. “It’s something we don’t have often, so it’s more of a Thanksgiving thing,” she remarked. Hendershot also highlighted playful aspects of family gatherings, recalling chaotic Pictionary games enjoyed during visits to Florida, demonstrating how food and fun intertwine during the holidays.
Another student, Nikolett Hoyt, expresses her Eastern European roots with Greek dishes at Thanksgiving. “We have more Greek food than anything,” she shared, stating they still include turkey and ham but alternate between lamb and goat. For her, the meals reflect the culinary enjoyment of their heritage, rather than being tied to the holiday itself.
Meanwhile, OCC’s Kayla Gonzalez shared her excitement about the growing trend of “Friendsgiving,” where friends gather to create their own Thanksgiving feast apart from familiar family traditions. “We all came together and brought our own dishes. We made it potluck style,” Gonzalez said. She appreciates this communal cooking experience, noting how it encourages culinary creativity and collaboration among friends.
Similarly, Adrina Mosqueda, pursuing Respiratory Care, believes Thanksgiving is more about the company rather than the food. “We all give thanks and get literally in a circle,” she explained. Her emphasis on gratitude over culinary specifics speaks volumes about current attitudes toward the holiday.
On a broader scale, some people are taking alternative approaches to Thanksgiving dinners altogether. Recognizing not everyone is fond of traditional turkey, experts have noted significant shifts this season. The result of balancing food preferences and lifestyle changes has led many families to find joy and comfort through other culinary avenues. From hearty pastas to taco feasts, the list of viable Thanksgiving alternatives grows.
One culinary exploration fans have gravitated toward involves pizza. Advisors note how homemade pizzas can come together easily and become fun family projects, especially for those with kids who enjoy customizing their culinary creations. Not wanting to shy away from adventurous cuisine gives families the opportunity to develop new traditions in the kitchen.
Meanwhile, there’s something appealing about pasta. Spaghetti, lasagna, and mostaccioli are not only versatile and affordable but can also easily accommodate large gatherings. Coupled with garlic bread and salad—perhaps accompanied by red wine—it draws families together, whether for Thanksgiving or as part of other seasonal celebrations.
While Thanksgiving typically focuses on one specific bird, it’s clear from this year’s outlook and conversations around the holiday—diversity reigns supreme. Many families opt for sushi, Chinese food, or Southern barbeque as their meal centerpiece, showcasing how Thanksgiving is blossoming with broader influences and individual tastes shaping their culinary choices.
Taking the dynamic shifts within the Thanksgiving diet to community levels, many restaurants are stepping up to offer their unique takes on traditional meals. For those dining out, the modern restaurant scene provides exciting options for holiday meals. Just like the students at OCC, they reflect traditions from various cultures or simply provide alternatives for those wanting to dine but skip the elaborate home cooking.
Restaurants like The Capital Grille cater to those needing something upscale to celebrate the holiday. Their special Thanksgiving menu features roasted turkey with gourmet sides like mashed potatoes and cranberry relish. The upscale atmosphere makes it the perfect place for families seeking to enjoy the holiday with less pressure than cooking from scratch.
Pappadeaux's Seafood Kitchen introduces Southern flavor with traditional turkey alongside their signature seafood dishes. For many, the inclusion of shrimp and crab enables families to blend holiday expectations with regional specialties.
If your idea of Thanksgiving leans toward the family-style ambiance, Buca di Beppo serves hearty portions meant to be shared. Their traditional Thanksgiving dinner pairs turkey with Italian-inspired dishes, creating communal dining experiences over large platters of food.
For those nostalgic for comfort food, visiting Cracker Barrel on Thanksgiving can evoke feelings of home, offering turkey with all the usual fixings. With year-round classics, it embodies the essence of many family Thanksgivings.
The Cheesecake Factory boasts versatility, catering menus to fit various preferences. With its extensive menu, diners may choose between Thanksgiving classics or enjoy various cuisines including steak and pasta, showcasing the growing cravings for alternatives.
On the more unique end, Texas de Brazil takes diners on flavor excursions with their Brazilian steakhouse flair, featuring meats and traditional sides. This offers both fun and food, emphasizing dining experiences beyond what’s commonly expected on Thanksgiving.
Lastly, Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse features decadence for those wanting to celebrate the holiday with elegance. Their Thanksgiving spread offers prime options, intertwining the luxurious dining with the warmth of traditional meals.
This year has tested the waters, with culinary traditions blossoming as families reflect personal tastes and cultural heritages during Thanksgiving. Whether at home or out at restaurants, many people are set to embrace new traditions, recognizing it’s not just the food but the people gathered at the table who make Thanksgiving memorable.
