Feast and Courtesy: Thanksgiving Etiquette Quiz

The countdown is on, and family is arriving for Thanksgiving dinner in a matter of days. As a host, your preparations have already begun—you have purchased the turkey, candied the yams and are focused on creating a joyful environment as everyone gathers. There are tables to be set and flowers to arrange, but first, can you pass the turkey and the Thanksgiving etiquette quiz? Put your knowledge to the test, and allow the spirit of gratitude to guide you through this festive quiz.

Thanksgiving Etiquette Quiz: True or False

The perfect guest knows to always show up with a delicious dessert that their host can serve at the main dining event.

False: Never show up with food items and expect your host to serve them at their special holiday feast. The host has gone to great lengths to make their menu perfect, and your contribution may not be a welcome guest. Always ask first and let your host say “yes” or “no thank you.”

A holiday host should always include a “plus one” on the invitation to make the guest more comfortable.

False: The host specifically invites who they would like to be in attendance. There are a variety of reasons there is not a “plus one” on the invite, either formally by a mailed invitation, or verbally. They want the festivities to be simple, personal, and intimate, or their budget may not allow extra guests.

A good guest knows they should always arrive a “fashionably” 5 minutes early to show the host they are mannerly and well groomed.

False: A guest should arrive on time to a party – not early and not more than ten minutes late.

It’s perfectly acceptable to put an early guest “to work” chopping, whisking, cutting, and lighting candles.

True: Yes, a host can politely request the early bird guest help out to keep them busy and entertained, as well as assist with last-minute duties.

It’s terribly rude to ask the host who is on the guest list.

False: It’s not rude to ask the host who is on the guest list when the intention is to do a little research on guests to appear interesting and engaging. When the guest is deciding whether they want to attend the party, based on who will be on the guest list, then it’s rude.

The host should never have to make the first toast.

False: The host should always make the first toast, welcoming their guests and inviting them to enjoy the food and friendship.

When someone honors you with a toast, you should always take a sip of liquid, even if there is no liquor in your glass.

False: One never drinks to oneself when their name is mentioned in a toast. Wait for everyone to take a sip, then you can drink after the toast is complete.

A committed partner, or spouse, or first-time date, should mix and mingle and let you do the same throughout the evening.

True: The role of a good guest is to make pleasant conversation with people they are not familiar with and engage with those they do not already know. Be sure and introduce yourself using your first and last name, extend your hand for a handshake, and use their name in conversation to help you remember.

For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go to” social and professional (manners) skills authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas. 

For even more Thanksgiving Etiquette, refer to our Thanksgiving Etiquette Q&A blog post. See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook. Find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account and keep up with her latest tweets. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and HuffPost.