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The Countdown

When your holiday event arrives, follow our countdown tips and all should flow smoothly!

About a Month Ahead

Countdown - About a Month Before
  • Plan the menu (number of appetizers and side dishes.) Keep a running list on your refrigerator so you can add or delete items.
  • Consider your oven space, the number of burners you have, and your refrigeration space when planning your menu.
  • Don't plan to serve more than 2 dishes that require last-minute preparation.
  • Consider your available space for warming and chilling when planning your appetizers. Some of the appetizers should be able to be made in advance.
  • Incorporate the dishes that guests will bring into your plan.
  • Not sure how much to make to feed your crowd? Click here to see how much you should prepare.
  • Order fresh turkey. If you’re buying a frozen turkey, you still have time, but don’t wait until the last minute.
  • Check out our Holiday Recipes & Menus for inspiration.

4 Days Before

Countdown - 4 Days Before
  • Start defrosting frozen turkey in refrigerator. (If turkey is still frozen when you are ready to use it, run it under cold water.)
  • Make a shopping list and purchase non-perishables.
  • Shop in the early morning or late evening to save time at the check-out line.
  • Stock up on ice to use for beverages.

2 Days Before

PHILADELPHIA New York-Style Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake

Day Before

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
  • Make casserole side dishes, such as Cheesy Green Bean Casserole, Cheesy Broccoli Casserole or Broccoli and Corn Scallop.
  • Arrange flowers and decorate centerpiece.
  • Get out the cooking and serving utensils, pitchers, platters, gravy boats, and pots and pans you'll need for the next day.
  • Pick up fresh turkey.
  • Set the adults’ and kids’ tables.
  • You can make garnishes such as Green Onion Flowers and Carrot Curls.
  • Make a timetable which lets you know when a dish is to be taken out of the fridge, put in the oven, made on top of the stove, or assembled on the spot.

      • Morning of the Dinner

      STOVE TOP In-the-Bird Directions
      • The fridge will be fairly packed; keep an insulated cooler and plenty of ice handy for extra refrigeration needs. Chill wine or other beverages in fridge or outside on porch.
      • Give yourself 20 minutes to stuff the turkey.
      • Try our STOVE TOP In-the-Bird Directions. Remember, using the microwave is a great way to save time when preparing STOVE TOP Stuffing.
      • Turkey needs to cool for a half an hour after it comes out of the oven. It's a good idea to make the gravy while the turkey rests.
      • Leave about 15 minutes for carving the turkey. Check out our video for inspiration 
      • Check your running list to make sure you haven’t forgotten any dishes.
      the countdown