Thanksgiving Wherever You Are

10/26/2022

This month, I've included some great crafts and ideas to help you and your family enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday wherever you are. These aren't just useful for one year, but can turn into treasured traditions!

1. Engage Locally

Most Foreign Service families won't be driving to Grandma's for this American holiday, but we will be gathering around the table with some new and old friends to celebrate the time-honored celebration. Here are some ideas to brighten up your holiday and share your meal.

Invite a Marine to join your family.
Invite a single person at post, a couple, or a single parent and kids to join you.
Invite a favorite locally employed staff member to your Thanksgiving table. Along the way, you can show them some American tradition and culture.
Celebrate it on a different day or multiple times to include those American expats who don't get the holiday off from school or work.

2. Make a Thankful Tree

This tradition is simple and easily replicated anywhere you live.

Cut a tree trunk shape out of construction paper and put it on a wall. (Or if you would prefer to purchase one on Amazon, you can click here).
Cut out some paper leaves (instructional video here), collect dried ones, or order pre-cut ones.
In a basket or container close by, provide Sharpie markers and tape.
Throughout the month of November, have family members add little things to the tree for which they are thankful. (For example "my friends", "jellybeans" or "my pet")
Invite friends and neighbors to add leaves as well.
Photograph the tree before you take it down!