A Poe-Inspired Thanksgiving with Heart and Community

Thanksgiving is a time of warmth, tradition, and good food. It's when tables fill with family favorites and kitchens come alive with the scent of slow-roasting comfort. But not every table looks the same, and not everyone has what they need when the holiday rolls around.

At Joy Holiday Family, we believe that Thanksgiving should be for everyone. That includes families facing food insecurity and individuals with dietary restrictions who are often left out of traditional meal distributions. This year, we’re combining storytelling, recipe-sharing, and real action by spotlighting a unique collaboration that celebrates both the joy of food and the importance of inclusion.

A Cozy Mystery and a Gluten-Free Menu

We're teaming up with author N.E. Carlisle, whose culinary cozy mystery Hazelnuts and Homicide features a Poe-themed Thanksgiving dinner that’s completely gluten free. This is more than just a fun twist. It’s a thoughtful nod to the many families and individuals who rely on food pantries, mutual aid groups, and community kitchens but need safe options that fit their dietary needs.

The fictional town of Hazelton might be mysterious, but the menu is full of real-life recipes that are accessible and heartwarming. From Dark Roast Turkey with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze to Lenore’s Fallen Apples and Macabre Brussels Sprouts, the dishes bring a literary flair to the holiday table. You can watch each recipe come together on our YouTube channel in a special playlist celebrating this Poe-themed feast.

Giving That Makes a Difference

We invite you to do more than cook this year. Here are a few easy ways to make your Thanksgiving table—and your giving—more inclusive:

• Donate shelf-stable gluten-free foods or low-sodium items to your local food pantry

• Share extra portions of your favorite allergy-friendly dishes with neighbors through community fridges or aid networks

• Encourage local food drives to clearly label and include options for people with dietary restrictions

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Whether you’re preparing a cozy mystery-inspired dinner or simply making an extra batch of mashed potatoes, a little planning can help make sure someone else feels welcome and nourished this season.

Gratitude in Action

Thanksgiving is about more than food. It’s about making space for others, whether at your table or in your heart. And it’s about choosing to feed both body and spirit.

From our kitchen to yours, we hope this holiday brings delicious moments, new ideas, and opportunities to care for one another.

Explore the full Poe-themed menu on our YouTube playlistLearn more about Hazelnuts and Homicide and author N.E. Carlisle at linktr.ee/necarlisle

A Poe-worthy twist on tradition — this gluten-free apple tart drizzled with spiced caramel is a darkly delicious finish to our Hazelnuts and Homicide–inspired Thanksgiving feast.