Banish Holiday Stress with These 18 Do-Ahead Tasks

The holidays are a time for joy, togetherness, and great food. But let’s be honest: they can also be overwhelming. From cleaning and decorating to cooking and hosting, the list of tasks seems endless. Fortunately, a little planning and preparation can make a world of difference. By tackling some tasks ahead of time, you’ll save yourself from last-minute stress and be able to enjoy the festivities with family and friends. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you can make and do in advance for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

1. Wash and Polish Your Tableware

Start by taking inventory of your glasses, plates, silverware, and serving dishes. Wash and polish everything to make sure it’s spotless for the big day. If you’re hosting a larger crowd, consider borrowing or renting additional items. Don’t forget the water glasses, wine glasses, and champagne flutes, which often need a good polish to sparkle.

2. Iron Linens

Ironing tablecloths and napkins ahead of time can save you from scrambling on the day of your celebration. Store them on hangers or flat in a clean, dry place to keep them wrinkle-free. If you use fabric chair covers, consider ironing those as well. Bonus tip: spray a light mist of linen spray for a fresh scent when your guests arrive. You can also forgo them altogether! Use place mats, or nothing at all, with good quality paper napkins.

3. Take Inventory of Chairs and Seating

Do you have enough chairs for everyone? If not, arrange to borrow or rent extras. Folding chairs can be dressed up with cushions or slipcovers to match your holiday décor. Set up your dining area a few days ahead to ensure everything fits comfortably and flows well.

4. Make Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is one of the easiest dishes to prepare ahead. It freezes beautifully and tastes even better after a few days when the flavors have melded. Prepare it a week or two before your event, store it in an airtight container, and freeze or refrigerate it. On the day of, simply thaw and serve. We have several recipes for you.

5. Prepare Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the fridge. To reheat, spread them in a casserole dish, add a splash of cream or milk, and warm them in the oven or microwave. Alternatively, you can freeze mashed potatoes. Just be sure to incorporate plenty of butter and cream, as these ingredients help maintain a creamy texture after thawing. Here is our favorite Do-Ahead Mashed Potato recipe.

6. Cook and Freeze Gravy

Gravy often steals the spotlight at the holiday table, and luckily, it’s easy to prepare in advance. Make your gravy a week ahead and freeze it in portions. On the big day, defrost and reheat it in a saucepan, whisking to restore its smooth texture. If you plan to make pan drippings on the day of the feast, you can combine them with your pre-made gravy for an extra boost of flavor. We have a make-ahead recipe for you!

7. Bake Desserts That Freeze Well

Certain desserts are perfect candidates for freezing. Pies, such as apple or pumpkin, freeze well unbaked. Simply prepare the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze. When ready to bake, place it directly in the oven without thawing. I also like to make pumpkin pie filling, and pecan pie filling head and they can be refrigerated in airtight contains for a couple days, then bake the pies the morning of serving.

Cakes, cookies, and even cheesecakes can also be made ahead and stored in the freezer. For Christmas, consider freezing cookie dough so you can bake fresh batches as needed. Check out the recipe for our Chocolate Pecan Pie with Whiskey, shown above.

8. Prepare Stuffing

Stuffing (or dressing, depending on your region) is another dish that can be made ahead. Prepare it fully and freeze it in a casserole dish or make just the bread mixture and freeze it separately. On the day of the event, thaw, add broth or stock, and bake until golden brown. Looking for a gluten-free cornbread stuffing?

9. Assemble Casseroles

Casseroles are a holiday favorite and lend themselves well to advance preparation. Green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, and even breakfast casseroles for Christmas morning can be assembled a day or two ahead. Cover and refrigerate them, then bake right before serving.

10. Prep Appetizers and Snacks

Simplify your day-of hosting duties by prepping appetizers and snacks ahead of time. Cheese boards can be pre-arranged (minus the crackers) and stored in the fridge, covered tightly with plastic wrap. Dips, such as spinach-artichoke dip or hummus, can be made days in advance and kept in airtight containers.

11. Organize Your Pantry and Shop Early

Check your pantry a couple of weeks before the holidays to ensure you have all the staples you’ll need, such as flour, sugar, spices, and baking ingredients. Shopping early can help you avoid last-minute trips to crowded grocery stores. Store non-perishables in an organized manner so you can quickly access what you need when it’s time to cook.

12. Prep Vegetables

Chopping vegetables ahead of time can save hours on the day of your event. Carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes can be peeled and chopped a day or two in advance. Store them in airtight containers or resealable bags in the refrigerator. For leafy greens, wash, dry, and store them with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.

13. Set the Table Early

If your dining area won’t be used in the days leading up to the holiday, set the table a day or two ahead. Arrange plates, silverware, glasses, and napkins, and add any decorative touches like centerpieces, candles, or place cards. This step ensures a polished and festive look without the rush.

14. Freeze Rolls and Bread

Dinner rolls and other bread items can be baked ahead and frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. On the day of your meal, reheat them in the oven for that fresh-baked warmth and aroma.

15. Decorate in Stages

Holiday decorations can be overwhelming if tackled all at once. Start with larger elements, like your Christmas tree or Thanksgiving centerpiece, and gradually add smaller touches like garlands, candles, and ornaments. If you’re hosting outdoors, make sure lights and heaters are set up well in advance.

16. Label and Organize Serving Dishes

Label serving dishes and utensils with sticky notes to indicate which dish goes where. This simple step prevents confusion and saves time during plating and serving. It’s also helpful for delegating tasks to family members or guests.

17. Plan Drinks and Ice

Decide on your drink menu in advance, whether it’s wine, cocktails, or non-alcoholic options. Stock up on beverages early and prepare mixers or syrups ahead of time. If you’re serving chilled drinks, ensure you have enough ice or consider buying extra bags of ice to store in a cooler.

18. Plan Cleanup Supplies

Stock up on trash bags, dish soap, and paper towels to ensure a smooth cleanup process. Consider having a designated area for dirty dishes and enlisting helpers for post-meal tidying.

Happy Holidays!

The holidays are meant to be a time of celebration and connection, not stress. By tackling these tasks ahead of time, you’ll free up your schedule for what truly matters—making memories with loved ones. With a little planning and preparation, you can host a Thanksgiving or Christmas to remember.

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READ: 10 Graceful Ways to Keep Politics Off the Thanksgiving Menu

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