Who will carve the Turkey this Thanksgiving?
Carving the Turkey is an honour and a chore (if we are being honest here…)
Etiquette dictates that the person who cooks the Turkey has the final say in who carves the Turkey. If you are like me, and have a blended family, we like to share the honour of carving the turkey each year.
It’s not only nice to share the task – it also frees up the hosts to make sure drinks are filled, all dishes are on the table and generally tend to your guests needs.
We display an ‘Who will Carve the Turkey?’ sign near the entrance so everyone sees it when they enter.
Why I like the “Who will carve the Turkey” sign and you might too…
The Who will carve the Turkey sign helps to avoid any confusion or awkwardness about who should take on the responsibility of carving the turkey.
I was invited my friend’s Thanksgiving dinner and after witnessing the bitter squabbling over who would carve the Turkey I vowed never to have that happen in my home! Seriously, grown men were posturing and their wives snipping. I was sooo uncomfortable. The poor hostess who had been cooking all day nearly lost it!
Angela
Conversation starter
Setting up a sign can engage guests and spark conversations. It becomes a talking point and a way to break the ice, especially if people are meeting for the first time or if the gathering is larger than usual.
Tradition
If your family or group has a tradition of passing down the honour of turkey carving, the sign can help continue that tradition and add a sense of nostalgia to the event.
Avoiding the Guesswork
Guests often wonder who the designated carver is, and this sign eliminates the need for them to guess or inquire, making the overall experience smoother.
Festive Atmosphere
A cute sign contributes to the overall festive atmosphere of the Thanksgiving gathering. It’s a small detail that can enhance the décor and ambiance.
Photos and Memories
A sign with the carver’s name can make for great photo opportunities. It captures the moment and becomes a memory that can be cherished for years to come.
Preparation and Planning
Knowing who will carve the turkey in advance allows you to plan the setup accordingly. You can make sure the carving area is well-prepared with the necessary tools and space where the person will be sitting.
Involving Children
If it’s a family event, involving children in the decision can be exciting for them. The sign can be a way to let them feel included and responsible for an important task.
Light-hearted Competition
If your group enjoys friendly competition, you can turn the decision into a game or draw lots to select the carver, adding an element of surprise and entertainment.
Creating Memories
The sign becomes a part of the Thanksgiving tradition itself, reminding everyone of the moments shared and the individuals who have played a special role in the festivities.
Ultimately, the “Who Will Carve the Turkey?” sign can enhance the Thanksgiving experience by providing structure, creating connections, and adding to the overall enjoyment of the gathering.
FYI – we usually just carve a token slice in our Turkey i.e. the drumstick joint then I whisk the bird into the kitchen and carve it and place it on platters. So much easier than having everyone watch you make a mess (and giving advice!) You might like this video from Bon Appetit.
Angela
Overall, while a “Who Will Carve the Turkey?” sign is not a necessity, it can add an element of organization, tradition, and fun to Thanksgiving gatherings, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.
What is your Turkey Carving tradition?
