Thanksgiving Expenses
The average price per family to make Thanksgiving dinner is approximately $44.61. This breaks down to about $4.61 per person, assuming a meal is created for 10 people. I found this estimate to be pretty close to what I paid last night at the grocery store last night. However, I’m assuming this estimate doesn’t include alcohol, which for some will cost $44.61 for a single bottle of wine.
I have noticed from past years, that shopping later rather than sooner has actually saved me money when preparing for the big thanksgiving meal. Closer towards Thanksgiving, grocery stores tend to mark down their festive foods because they order such abundance in preparation for the holiday. Turkey’s for example were marked down to $0.49/pound last night, which is more than half of the price it originally was. Other on sale items were stovetop stuffing, gravy, canned vegetables, ice cream, and pies (I sense a theme).
What other consumer related activity do we relate to Thanksgiving? I’m glad you asked, it’s shopping. Although this Friday is expected to be less than previous years in terms of spending because of our economic conditions, people are still going to spend like crazy this weekend. The market can be beneficial to consumers if we look for the best possible bargains. I would suggest looking when it comes to in store shopping. You still have time before Christmas; there is no reason to spend like crazy on this Friday. Get a good idea of what you want to purchase, and then go home, and look around to where you can find the same product for less (usually this will be online). For me, I’m going to do a lot of my shopping through my credit card company, who has teamed up with multiple stores. They are going to be offering a crazy 20-30% cashback on a variety of purchase, check to see if you have access to similar deals.
Entertainment is another expense families are faced with over Thanksgiving. Many families go to movies; I recommend renting one instead if this still can fit your tradition. Wednesday is considered one of the biggest bar nights of the year, and perhaps many of us will find ourselves at one. Call your favorite pubs and see who will be offering the best deals; you and your friends/family will be thankful you called.
No matter how you will be spending your money this Thanksgiving, MYM wishes you a great Turkey day and we hope you can milk the most from your time off, leftovers, and shopping dollars. $
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Comments
That’s cheap, I spent $80 on my turkey alone. But it is a pastured turkey from a local farm (and it weighs 22 lbs). That’s the only part I’m providing, everything else is potluck from other family members. I’m sure I’ll have tons of leftovers and the bones will be made into stock.
I use the Chase Freedom card. It’s a holiday special that only lasts a few days, I’m sure other cards have similar specials.
Susy - Your turkey is of much better quality than our Safeway brand one! Enjoy.
What credit card do you use where they are offering that high of cash back?