7 Things to Not Do at Thanksgiving in Idaho in 2024

Thanksgiving is fast approaching and has plenty of mouths watering as they anticipate the food. While the food is the highlight of the day, for others it is seeing their friends and family and enjoying a day with them. Sometimes spending time with family can be great, and other times it can cause anxiety. The holidays can be tough to manage for some, and there are a few things to not do at Thanksgiving this year in Idaho to guarantee that it is a memorable and good day for everyone.

No Talking Politics in Idaho

The election is over, and while plenty of people are excited about the result, there are also plenty of people upset about it. Talking politics with family and friends, especially when both are members of separate parties, is best left off the table. Instead of having a day full of arguments and stress, focus on more lighthearted topics and enjoy the people you are with. 

Don't Get Drunk in the Gem State

Dealing with family can be tough for some individuals and getting through the holidays is hard work. In order to relax, drinking a little wine, a beer, or another adult beverage is how some handle being around their family. A drink or two isn't bad, but having too much can make for bad results. 

Eating Meat in Idaho

Not everyone enjoys turkey, and there are also those that don't enjoy meat at all. When eating Thanksgiving in Idaho, it is best to either leave the meat on the plate or to stuff it down. Most Idahoans enjoy meat, and there is a high chance that the meat on your plate is fresh and was taken down by the host. If you don't enjoy meat, you may be in the wrong state for the holiday. 

Don't Talk Bad About the Food

Similar to not wanting to offend your host by not eating meat, the same goes for all the side dishes and desserts as well. If something is below par or not the way you prefer it to be made, it is best to keep it to yourself. A Thanksgiving meal is hard work and takes hours, if not days to prepare for. It is best to try everything and leave it on your plate what you don't like. Leave the negative comments to yourself. 

Be a Good Guest at Thanksgiving

Making sure to not bad mouth the food is one thing, but it is also important to be a good guest in other ways. Be polite and take off your shoes at the door, clean up after yourself, and don't make a mess or leave the home dirty. If you are hosting, you likely want your guests to respect your home, and if you are visiting somewhere treat their home the way you would want yours treated. It is hard work cleaning the house and preparing for family and friends, and the least you can do is respect their home. 

Planning for Black Friday

When Thanksgiving comes around, it is the start of great holiday shopping as well. Black Friday has changed through the years, with many going online shopping, but there are still those who like to go out and physically shop as well. It is rude to sit around and plan where you are going and what you are getting during the meal. Once the plates have been cleared, it is more acceptable, but don't let great deals and planning your shopping ruin the meal and time around the table. 

Don't Bad Mouth Boise State Football

Having Thanksgiving in Idaho means watching Boise State football in most households. The team is a huge part of the state, and especially this year they are having a fantastic season. Bad-mouthing the team is likely not a good idea, and cheering on another team or not being interested in their season and game that weekend could lead to an argument or disrespecting your host. For a day or the weekend, it is best to become a Boise State fan if having Thanksgiving in Idaho. 

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There are many things to do and not do at Thanksgiving. As long as you don't do the above, you should have a nice holiday in the Gem State. There are other rules as well, and each family will dictate what you can and can not get away with. Leave the politics, work, sports, and shopping, at home and focus on the people and things that mean the most to you this holiday. Have a Happy Thanksgiving in Idaho.