Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving dinner countdown checklist

4 weeks out

• Pick the date and style (seated, potluck, game-day, pie night)
• Send the invite with an RSVP date 10 days before the party
• Order a fresh turkey, or plan when to buy a frozen one

2 weeks out

• Lock the menu; if it's a potluck, assign dishes by category
• Ask about allergies and dietary needs
• Count chairs, plates, glasses and serving dishes; borrow or rent what's missing
• Order anything for the table: runner, napkins, candles, place cards

1 week out

• Final headcount; nudge anyone who hasn't replied
• Write the cooking schedule backward from dinnertime
• Big grocery run for everything that keeps
• Make the playlist

3 days out

• Move a frozen turkey to the fridge (1 day per 4 to 5 lb)
• Make pie dough, cranberry sauce and anything that freezes
• Freeze the ice cubes and any ice ring

1 day out

• Bake pies, assemble casseroles, make mashed potatoes
• Set the table and label serving dishes with sticky notes
• Chill wine and drinks; clear fridge space for leftovers

Day of

• Turkey in the oven on schedule
• Set out the drink station and a spot for coats
• Light candles and start the playlist 15 minutes before the doorbell

After

• Send leftovers home in containers
• Text or mail thank-yous to anyone who brought a dish