Thanksgiving is a holiday that is built on tradition. Gathering with family and friends, sharing a massive meal, and being grateful. But, for healthcare travelers, the holiday can look and feel a little different. Assignments typically take you away from family and friends, and with crazy schedules, it’s not always possible to head home for the long weekend.
Still, Thanksgiving on the road doesn’t have to mean missing out on the holiday spirit. Travelers have found countless fun and creative ways to make Thanksgiving special, no matter where they are. Here are some ideas to help you celebrate, connect, and create memories while on assignment this Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving on the Road: Ways To Celebrate
🍂 Host a “Traveler’s Thanksgiving” Potluck
If you’re on assignment at a facility with other travelers, why not bring everyone together? Each person can cook (or buy!) one dish, creating a shared feast without the stress of preparing a whole meal alone. It’s a great way to build community and enjoy a little taste of home, no matter where you are.
🦃 Thanksgiving for One (or Two)
Not every Thanksgiving has to be big and elaborate. For solo travelers, couples, or roommates, keep it simple:
- Pick up a rotisserie chicken instead of a full turkey.
- Make a few easy side dishes like mashed potatoes and stuffing.
- Treat yourself to a slice of pumpkin pie from a local bakery.
It’s a smaller spread, but still captures the cozy holiday feeling.
🌎 Celebrate with New Traditions
Being away from home is the perfect chance to start new and exciting traditions:
- Try a “Gratitude Walk” through a local park to take in the fall foliage.
- Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
- Make it a movie binge night with Thanksgiving favorites like Planes, Trains, and Automobiles or A Charlie Brown Christmas.
💻 Virtual Thanksgiving with Family
Technology has made it so much easier to feel connected with family and friends while on assignment. You can plan a video call with family and friends during dinner, or keep a laptop on the table so you can “join” the meal from afar. Some travelers even cook the same recipes as their families at home, making the distance feel just a little bit smaller.
🏥 Share Gratitude with Your Team
If you’re scheduled to work on Thanksgiving, you’re not alone. Many travelers spend the holiday working. Bring in a treat to share, help plan a carry-in, and share your gratitude by acknowledging your co-workers. Sometimes the best way to celebrate is by lifting each other. And let’s be honest, if you have to work the holiday, why not have good food to help you through the shift?
✈️ Take Advantage of Your Location
One of the perks of traveling during the holiday season is getting to experience Thanksgiving somewhere new. Check out local events like parades, community dinners, or charity runs (or turkey trots). Some cities host fun and unique celebrations that you might not see back home. It is a great way to turn your assignment into an adventure.
Spending Thanksgiving on the road may not be ideal, or look exactly like it does at home, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be amazing. Whether you’re cooking a small meal, sharing the holiday with fellow travelers, or starting your own new tradition, the spirit of Thanksgiving is all about gratitude and connection. Wherever your assignment takes you, there are so many ways to make the holiday great.
