THANKSGIVING ON A BUDGET

Thanksgiving is one of those holidays that feels warm and cozy – until you check your bank account. Between travel, groceries, and the temptation to “celebrate properly,” it’s easy for college students to spend money they don’t really have. But being broke doesn’t mean you have to skip the fun. Here’s how to enjoy Thanksgiving without draining your wallet.

COOK SIMPLE AND SHARE THE LOAD

You don’t need a full-course meal to celebrate. If you’re hosting or joining a Friendsgiving, split the menu. One person brings drinks, another brings dessert, and someone else handles the main dish. Cooking together turns it into a fun group activity –and you’ll spend less than you would eating out.

SHOP SMART -- AND EARLY

The earlier you buy, the more you save. Grocery stores usually drop prices on turkeys, potatoes, and canned goods in the first two weeks of November. Compare prices using store apps like those at Safeway, Fred Meyer, or WinCo, and take advantage of student discounts or coupons. A small turkey breast or rotisserie chicken can also feed several people without the cost of a whole bird.

USE CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Many colleges, including MHCC, and local food pantries give out free or discounted Thanksgiving meal kits for students. Check your school’s student resource center or nearby community centers. Some churches and nonprofits even host free dinners for students staying in town.

SKIP THE BRAND NAMES

Store brands taste the same – seriously. Whether it’s stuffing mix, pie crust, or cranberry sauce, buying generic can cut your grocery bill in half. No one will know the difference, especially once everything’s covered in gravy.

GET CREATIVE WITH LEFTOVERS

Thanksgiving leftovers are basically free meal prep. Turn turkey into sandwiches, soups, or fried rice; mashed potatoes become potato cakes. Even leftover veggies can go into omelets or wraps. Stretching your food means stretching your dollars.

SAVE ON TRAVEL (OR STAY PUT)

If you’re traveling home, book bus or train tickets early and use student discount sites like Greyhound Student Advantage, Amtrak Student Deals, or GasBuddy for cheaper carpool options. If home is too far, celebrate locally: Video call your family and make new traditions with nearby friends.

DIY YOUR DECOR AND ENTERTAINMENT

Forget buying fancy decorations: You can create a cozy setup with candles, thrift store finds, or fall leaves. For entertainment, stream a movie, play board games, or host a gratitude circle where everyone shares one good thing from the year.

DON'T LET SOCIAL MEDIA PRESSURE YOU

You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect dinner table to have a good Thanksgiving. The best moments usually happen when you’re laughing over burnt rolls or sharing stories with people you care about. Focus on the memory, not the aesthetics.

FINAL THOUGHT: College Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be expensive to be special. Whether you’re eating takeout with friends or FaceTiming family from your dorm, the heart of the holiday is the same – gratitude, laughter, and connection. And that’s something you can afford every year.