How to Celebrate Thanksgiving While on Assignment

Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and reflection, connecting with loved ones, and, of course, enjoying some delicious food. If you’re a travel nurse or healthcare traveler on assignment during the holiday, it might feel different from celebrating at home, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be just as special. Here’s how you can make the most of Thanksgiving, even when you’re far from home.

Thanksgiving Festivities to Enjoy on Assignment

Thanksgiving Dinner

Let’s get the most important part out of the way first. Food is the heart of Thanksgiving (arguably the most important part!), and with a little dash of creativity, you can enjoy your favorite dishes even if you won’t be spending the day cooking with friends and family. Here are some ideas to make it happen:

• Thanksgiving For One: If you are traveling alone, you can still have an amazing meal (and yummy leftovers for your shift breaks!). Check out this list of recipes for one to pare down traditional dishes to a single serving size.
• Try Local Flavors: Incorporate regional ingredients or dishes into your traditional Thanksgiving menu, such as maple flavors in Vermont or seafood-inspired sides if you’re on the coast. If cooking isn’t feasible, check out local restaurants offering Thanksgiving takeout or dine-in specials.
• Host a Potluck: Still want to gather around a table in the traditional style? Invite fellow travelers and others from your unit, friends, neighbors, or others over for a Thanksgiving potluck. If you’re working the holiday, pick another day to enjoy good company and food.

Festive and Relaxing Activities

There may not be as many festivities around Thanksgiving as other holidays, but there are still plenty of traditions you can enjoy!

•     Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: Tune in live or stream it later to enjoy the floats, balloons, and performances.
•     Netflix and Chill: Revisit Thanksgiving classics like “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles,” or dive into holiday-themed films to get into the spirit.
•     Get Your Football On: Tradition is tradition! Cheer on your favorite team or organize a touch football game with friends and fellow travelers.
•     Decorate Your Space: Start setting up winter holiday decorations to make your temporary home feel festive and inviting.
•     Take a Thanksgiving Walk or Run: Whether you participate in a local “Turkey Trot” or take a leisurely stroll, it’s a great way to stay active and soak in the day’s spirit.

Share the Gratitude of the Holiday

Thanksgiving is about gratitude and connection; even while on assignment, you can nurture those values.

•     Virtual Gatherings: Share a meal or play games over video calls with family and friends. It’s not the same as being there in person, but it’s a wonderful way to stay connected.
•     Journal or Write Gratitude Notes: Spend time reflecting in a journal about what you are thankful for, or send notes to your loved ones on why you are thankful to have them in your life and supporting your travel journey.
•     Give Back: Volunteer at a local shelter or participate in a food drive to spread the Thanksgiving spirit.

Explore Your Assignment Destination

Thanksgiving offers an opportunity to discover the unique traditions and experiences of your assignment destination.

•     Visit Local Holiday Markets: Many towns host Thanksgiving or seasonal markets with local goods, crafts, and treats.
•     Embrace the Outdoors: Take advantage of the long weekend to hike, explore parks, or take a scenic drive. Thanksgiving is a great time to appreciate nature’s beauty.
•     Learn Local Traditions: Each community celebrates Thanksgiving differently. Look for events or activities specific to your area.

Where Will Your Next Travel Assignment Take You?

While Thanksgiving on assignment might not look like your usual celebration, it can still be meaningful, delicious, and fun. With a little creativity and an open mind, you’ll find plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday, connect with others, and create memories that last a lifetime.

This time of year is also the perfect time to start planning your assignments for the start of the new year. Don’t wait until after the holidays to plan where you want to go. Talk with your TNAA recruiter about where you want to go and get ready to make next year your best travel journey yet!

When you travel with TNAA, you’re traveling with a full-support travel nurse agency that has your back every step of the way. From credentialing to housing, we’re here to support you throughout every assignment.

Ready to get started? Check out our available jobs and apply today!