Georgia Kirkendall

Again it’s that time of the year, when you can eat your heart out and sleep the afternoon away without being judged for it. Thanksgiving is a time for food, family, and snoozing. How much better can it get? Although, many are hesitant to start planning for a gigantic feast. Remember last year? I do. It seems like just yesterday we were all quarantined, eating a measly meal and watching a subdued Macy’s Day Parade on a grainy computer screen. Personally, zooming with extended family was the most disastrous part of my makeshift holiday. Grandpa couldn’t figure out how to unmute himself, and baby cousin Lucy kept licking the camera screen. Is this what we have to look forward to this November? Sequestered celebrations and tiny-turkey shortages? The good news is no. However, it might be a stretch to hope for a completely normal turkey day. 

In 2020, many stores closed on Thanksgiving Day in an effort to encourage quarantining. There’s no easier way to spread disease than having hoards of people frantically combing the shopping aisles for that last can of congealed cranberry sauce. Major businesses are using the same tactics this year. Be aware that places such as Walmart and Target will have their doors closed on Thanksgiving, but also are extending their Black Friday sales to weeks, both in-store and online. 

Another coronavirus resultant to watch out for are turkey prices. Due to labor shortages and rising inflation, your turkey this year might be a bit more pricey than usual. Thankfully, you can be rest assured that there won’t be another shortage like last year. In 2020 families sought out small turkeys, because of small gatherings, and they ran out fast. Yet this year is predicted to be abundant in turkey pickings. Still, it wouldn’t hurt to claim your Tom early this Thanksgiving. 

What may be considered the most exciting part of Thanksgiving, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, is back in full swing this year. In 2020, the famous parade was extremely modified, with a shortened route through the streets of New York, and no viewers in attendance. But this year, crowds are welcome to attend, with no proof needed of vaccination status. As always, it is recommended to mask up in such crowded environments and practice social distancing. Participants in the parade will be required to be vaccinated and masked. The parade will feature 15 character balloons, 28 floats, 36 novelty and heritage inflatables, 10 marching bands, and 9 performance groups. Just to name a few celebrities, Jimmie Allen, Kristin Chenoweth, and the cast and Muppets of “Sesame Street” will appear in this grandiose celebration. And, as always, Santa!