Vegan for Thanksgiving 2024

Preparing for the holidays can feel daunting, whether you're planning a feast for yourself, a crowd, or simply bringing a dish to a potluck. But no matter what your Thanksgiving plans are, "veganizing" classic holiday dishes is easier than it may seem—and you don't have to replace your cherished traditions. Below, I've included links to some favorite vegan holiday recipes that both vegans and non-vegans will love. If you're not much of a cook, don't worry! I've also listed some brands and local businesses where you can purchase these dishes.

The day after your feast, join us at AFS for a tour, a Fun Run 5K around the sanctuary, and a Thanksgiving meal from Counter Culture with the Farmily. Get your tickets today while they last!

While you'll have the chance to meet all the residents of AFS, be sure to give a special hello to Casper, our resident turkey. Casper is one of the lucky ones, living a safe and carefree life at the sanctuary this Thanksgiving. Sadly, 46 million turkeys are killed each year for the holiday, with over 99% of them raised on industrial farms. As you enjoy time with loved ones and delicious food, take a moment to reflect on the lives lost and think about how we can all act with greater compassion to help prevent this needless suffering.

To Cook

Roast: If you are a frequent cook you probably already have most of the ingredients for this meat free “turkey roast” that will only take a couple of hours the night before. 

Mashed potatoes: Make this fluffy thanksgiving staple with only 5 ingredients. 

Gravy: In 15 minutes you will have gravy to compliment your “roast”, potatoes and stuffing.

Stuffing: This stuffing is suitable for those who are vegan and gluten free but will be loved by all. 

Pumpkin Pie: Bake this pie entirely from scratch or purchase the crust, either way this pie is delicious. 

At the Grocery

Tofurkey Plant Based Roast & Gravy: Tofurky has several different plant based turkey and ham substitutes that can be used as an entree and can be found at most major grocery stores. The one I have recommended happens to also have gravy included making it even easier to put together your holiday meal. 

Mac and “Cheese”: Mac and cheese was always my favorite thanksgiving side growing up and this one from the box is easy to make and suitable for those that are gluten free too. 

Stuffing: Right at your local whole foods you can find this highly rated stuffing to feed your whole table. 

Gravy: If you do not want to get the Tofurkey “roast” and gravy or need some extra, whole foods also has this delicious mushroom gravy. 

Dutch Apple Pie: If you’d like Whole Foods to be your one stop shop for a vegan Thanksgiving, pick up one of their vegan desserts whether it's ice cream, cookies, or a pie. 

Local Restaurants (but place your order soon!)

Cut out the cooking and shopping all while supporting a local business and place your order for a full Thanksgiving meal from these delicious restaurants and bakeries. 

Bouldin Creek Cafe: Pre Order your Thanksgiving meal by November 18th by emailing catering@bouldincree.com for everything you need from starters to dessert.  

Mr. Natural: For gatherings of all sizes, pre order your meal from Mr.Natural online before November 23rd. 

Rebel Cheese: Start off your Thanksgiving meal with one of Rebel Cheese’s seasonal Thanksgiving box available for presale now and available for local pickup. 

Zucchini Kill Bakery: Preorder your holiday desserts and breads online from Zucchini Kill Bakery. They have pies, cupcakes, cookies and more!