Many people feel that Thanksgiving can be "too much work" because it often involves extensive meal preparation, hosting a large group of family, extensive cleaning, travel arrangements, and the pressure to create a perfect holiday experience, which can lead to significant stress and time commitment, particularly for the person taking on the role of host.

Key reasons why Thanksgiving can feel like too much work:
Cooking complexity:
Preparing a large Thanksgiving meal with multiple dishes, including a turkey, can take hours of cooking time and meticulous planning.
Guest expectations:

The pressure to provide a plentiful and impressive meal for a large group can add stress.
Cleaning responsibilities:
Thoroughly cleaning the house before and after a large gathering can be time-consuming.
Family dynamics:
Navigating potential family tensions or disagreements that can arise during holiday gatherings can be emotionally draining.
Travel logistics:
If traveling to see family for Thanksgiving, the planning and execution of travel arrangements can add to the stress.
Ways to manage Thanksgiving stress and workload:
Delegate tasks: Ask family members to bring side dishes or desserts, or help with setting up, cleaning, or cooking.
Simplify the menu: Choose a smaller meal with fewer dishes or opt for pre-made options.
Offer to host elsewhere: If you don't want to handle the full hosting responsibility, suggest celebrating at someone else's home.
Set boundaries: Communicate your needs and limitations to family members to manage expectations.
Prioritize self-care: Take breaks during the day to relax and avoid getting overwhelmed.