With Thanksgiving less than a week away, many Central Coast shoppers are buying groceries for a smaller holiday dinner to stay safe during the pandemic.
This trend is now being encouraged by the San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department to reduce spikes in COVID-19 cases.
Thanksgiving in past years has been part holiday and part family and friend reunion. Which lead public health experts to be concerned about how holiday celebrations could lead to a spike in cases. https://t.co/a6bZFHDLQd
— SLO Public Health (@SLOPublicHealth) November 17, 2020
Atascadero resident Christine Gray said she's going to spend Thanksgiving with just her husband this year.
She opted for a turkey breast, instead of a full-sized bird.
“It is different, but we all need to be conscientious and safe," Gray said.
California Fresh Market in San Luis Obispo says they've seen an uptick in those purchasing prepared meals this year, as many people are keeping dinner portions small.
“It’s just exhausting trying to make a full Thanksgiving meal for two people," San Luis Obispo resident Meredith Simmons said.
For those wanting to get out and enjoy the holiday safely, there are options to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.
Café Roma in San Luis Obispo, among many other restaurants, will be offering holiday specials for those dining in and taking out Thursday evening.
“I’m just looking forward to giving people something that is memorable, something that is back to normal for this 2020 COVID year," Café Roma owner Marco Rizzo said.
While festivities may look different this year, some are keeping old traditions alive.
“My husband will cook a pumpkin pie, he’s really great at that, so we're looking forward to that and of course lots of whip cream," Gray said.
Others are choosing to give thanks.
“Our family has been safe and healthy so for us it’s really kind of going back to the basics of just being grateful for everything," Simmons said.
