Gen Z wants a stress-free holiday—and turkey isn’t always part of the plan

A new national survey suggests younger Americans may be reshaping long-standing holiday meal traditions. While turkey remains the most common meal on Thanksgiving tables, four in five Gen Z respondents are the most likely to say the bird is eaten mainly out of tradition, according to recent study.

The findings show that holiday hosting continues to put financial pressure on many households, and these concerns may be driving menu changes across age groups. Although turkey is still widely served, more than half of Americans say they would prefer a different main protein.

Survey shows majority would choose another protein over turkey

The survey found that 54% of young Americans would rather serve a different protein than turkey at a holiday meal. When given a list of alternatives, respondents selected:

• 59% chicken
• 49% pork or ham
• 49% beef or steak
• 23% fish or seafood
• 8% plant-based proteins

Only 12% of Gen Z respondents chose turkey as their preferred protein, the lowest among generations. At the same time, 75% said they have prepared a turkey before, showing that familiarity with the dish is not the issue; only their preference has changed. 

Cost, cleaning, and scheduling remain top holiday stressors

The holiday season continues to bring significant stress for many households. According to the survey, the most stressful tasks are consistent across generations.

Respondents identified four leading sources of pressure:

• 58% found cleaning for guests stressful
• 58% said coordinating schedules for the holiday season is challenging
• 57% found the cost of the meal higher 
• 56% said uncomfortable conversations make them stressed during hosting 

These areas are the most challenging for Gen Z, making them the generation most likely to seek simpler holiday routines. The survey also reported that 75% of celebrations include more than five guests, which may contribute to the difficulty of preparing meals, organizing time, and managing group expectations.

Economic pressures are influencing holiday menu choices

Rising grocery prices and larger gatherings are shaping how Americans approach their holiday meals. The survey found that 54% of respondents plan to look for ways to save money this season.

A whole turkey is one of the biggest holiday expenses, and many households say it no longer fits their needs.

Key findings include:

• 46% said a whole turkey is too much food.
• That number rises to 63% among people who are intentionally choosing less expensive protein options.

These responses suggest that waste reduction and cost control are significant factors in meal planning. Hosts may opt for chicken, ham, beef, or smaller turkey cuts to lower costs and reduce leftovers.

Gen Z’s approach: less pressure, more practicality

Compared with older generations, Gen Z appears to prioritize manageable routines over formal holiday expectations. The study suggests families are moving toward holiday hosting that is easier to plan and less demanding to organize, mainly due to schedules, budgets, and larger gatherings.

The survey notes that “doing it all isn’t the goal anymore. Doing it easily is,” reflecting a growing preference for simpler hosting strategies among younger respondents.

What does this mean for holiday hosts?

Holiday meals may shift toward hosting that’s not only affordable but also easier to manage for everyone. Instead of building the entire menu around one main item, hosts may start choosing foods that match the size of their gathering and what people actually enjoy eating. That can mean offering a couple of protein options, using smaller portions, or picking dishes that are easier to put on the table when guests are of different age groups and have different preferences. 

Here are some ways families can ease the stress of hosting while still hosting a holiday gathering that feels relaxed and enjoyable.

• Pick portions that suit your group. Smaller cuts, such as turkey breasts, chicken pieces, or sliced ham, help avoid leftovers without limiting choices.
  
• Pair a familiar option with something different. Adding a second protein or preparing it differently can help accommodate everyone’s tastes without increasing the workload.
  
• Use dishes that are easy to serve. Roasts, sliced meats, and smaller cuts make it easier for guests to help themselves, especially when the table is full.
  
• Plan around what your guests actually prefer. If your group leans toward chicken, beef, or ham, it’s reasonable to shape the rest of the meal around that instead of following a traditional routine out of obligation.

No matter how people plan their meals, the day is still about slowing down, making room for the people they care about, and creating a relaxed, welcoming setting. Every household handles the holiday a little differently, and that’s what keeps these gatherings special. 

Whether it is turkey, chicken, ham, or beef, the main dish may be evolving, but the purpose of the holiday remains the same: spending time with our loved ones and making memories.