7 Things to Not Do at Thanksgiving in California in 2024

Thanksgiving will be here before you know it. Many are excited to see their friends and family members, while others are stressed, anxious, and dread seeing their family. For some the holidays are special because they don't have to work, they get to travel, and they see their loved ones that they only see once or twice a year. For others, it is a time they dread as they have to suffer through family members they can't stand, football that they don't want to watch, and perhaps food they don't like. Everyone views the holiday season differently, but no matter who you are, there are some things you shouldn't do on Thanksgiving this year in California.

Don't Talk Politics at Thanksgiving

Many want to talk about politics, especially after the recent election, but when it comes to spending time with friends and family, it is best to stay clear of talking politics. Politics usually ends in arguments, and Thanksgiving is not the day to bring it up. Unless someone has the same views as you, it is best to avoid the topic altogether to keep peace this year. 

Don't Miss the Meal Because of Surfing

While surfing is a part of life for some people in California, Thanksgiving is a day for family and friends and is the one day you can miss hitting the waves. If you can't resist, make sure to be done in time to be back for the meal to not upset the family. It is a great way to work up an appetite, but don't lose track of time. 

Don't Miss the Meal Snowboarding

The beauty of living in California is you can surf or snowboard on Thanksgiving, but the same as surfing, if you can't resist the slopes, make sure you keep an eye on the time so that you don't miss the feast. It is a nice way to get away from family members you want to avoid, but to keep peace be there for the meal at least. 

Don't Get Drunk at Thanksgiving

Being around certain family members can cause anxiety for many, and the best way to handle it for many is to turn to booze. While a glass of wine, a beer, or a drink or two is ok, make sure to know your limit from relaxing to getting drunk. Having too much can ruin the day, not only for you but for those around you as well. 

Don't Bad Mouth the Food

Not everyone is going to like every dish that is made. Family members have been in the kitchen hard at work though, so it is best to keep your opinion to yourself and either keep something off your plate or blame it on getting full that you were unable to eat something. Do not bad mouth the food that someone worked hard at preparing. 

Don't Be Shopping During the Meal

While Thanksgiving is supposed to be about enjoying time as a family or with friends, many Americans think of it as the beginning of the shopping season and a big shopping weekend. This is true, but the shopping can happen after the meal or the next day. Do not spend the day on your phone or computer browsing what you want to buy, and instead spend time with family and appreciate them. The shopping can wait. 

Be a Good Guest

It should go without saying, but make sure to be a good guest this holiday season. It takes a lot of work to host the holidays. Cleaning the house, cooking, making sure everyone is taken care of, and much more. Be respectful of their home, and think of how you would want guests to act if you were hosting. Don't leave trash around the home, don't make a mess, take your shoes off if they ask, and treat their home better than you treat yours.

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The most important thing this year is to enjoy your family and get full on as much food as you can. Avoid doing the above, and Thanksgiving might be enjoyable for everyone. The good news is that if someone at your Thanksgiving does do any of these, it will likely make for a good story that you will be talking about next year at Thanksgiving.