7 Hacks for Hosting Thanksgiving in a Small Space

Hosting Thanksgiving in a small space is basically the holiday Olympics (complete with a 300-meter dash to figure out where you even put the forks). But the truth is, many have done it before, so there’s no reason why you can’t figure it out!

All you really need is a bit of creativity and the confidence of someone who refuses to let square footage dictate their holiday spirit. Here are seven hacks to pull off a cramped-but-cozy Thanksgiving.

1. Commit to the Fact That It’s a Little Tight
2. Clear Clutter Like Your Life Depends on it
3. Seating Doesn’t Have to Match (Or Even Be Chairs)
4. Serve Food Buffet-Style
5. Make Sure You Prep Ahead
6. Borrow Without Shame
7. Remember That Experiences Outweigh Square Footage

Commit to the Fact That It’s a Little Tight

Rule number one: stop apologizing for your small space. Guests don’t come over expecting a Martha Stewart spread with an annex dining room. They’re there for you and the food at the end of the day.

Small spaces only feel awkward if you act like they’re awkward. So lean in, and own the cozy charm!

Clear Clutter Like Your Life Depends on it

Nothing shrinks a space faster than stuff. Before anyone arrives, temporarily rehome anything that isn’t directly involved in the hosting process. Any and all surfaces are precious real estate, so keep counters, tabletops, and shelves as clean as possible. Future you will be grateful.

Seating Doesn’t Have to Match (Or Even Be Chairs)

Forget the fantasy of one grand table with matching chairs and monogrammed napkins. We’re doing… creative seating here.

Floor cushions, stools, ottomans, benches, your roommate’s yoga blocks…  it all counts. Kids especially love sitting on the floor, hallway, or even clustered around a coffee table like it’s a tiny banquet hall. 

Serve Food Buffet-Style

If you’re short on table space, don’t waste it with the turkey parade. Set up a buffet on your kitchen counter or a folding table instead of the dining space. Setting things up with specific stations keeps traffic flowing and frees up space where it matters.

Make Sure You Prep Ahead

Small spaces mean small ovens, tiny counters, and exactly zero room for last-minute chaos. So plan more than you think you need to!

Make sides the day before, borrow roasting pans, outsource a dish or two, use your slow cooker, and let guests bring dessert (or make the whole thing a potluck!) Every make-ahead moment buys you sanity on the big day.

Borrow Without Shame

Short on cutlery? Not enough serving bowls? Dining table the size of a placemat? Just ask your guests to supply whatever you need. People love to contribute, especially if it spares them from cooking a full turkey.

Remember That Experiences Outweigh Square Footage

Years from now, no one will remember how tightly packed the living room was or whether they balanced their plate on an ottoman. They’ll remember the laughter, the shared food, and how fantastic it was for their friend to offer up their cozy, tiny home.