Most In MN Plan Thanksgiving Within Own Household: Patch Survey

MINNESOTA — Most Minnesotans plan to spend the Thanksgiving holiday celebrating within their own household only as coronavirus cases spike in the state and across the country and public health officials urge Americans to keep their gatherings small and refrain from traveling, according to a Patch survey.

The survey, which appeared this week in questionnaire form, is not meant to be a scientific poll but only give a broad idea of public sentiment.

And while the vast majority of the 545 respondents said they planned to celebrate within their own household (67 percent) or plan on celebrating virtually (7.7 percent), some respondents (18 percent) still planned on celebrating with those outside their own household.

Some respondents shared more details about how they were limiting their plans this year.

— "My mother in law is a horrible cook so I am very thankful not to have to go to my in-laws for the holidays and get stuck watching football all day!"

— "We normally celebrate by inviting 20+ family and friends into our home for dinner, following a neighborhood football game and walk around the lake. This year, we'll have dinner for three, after a walk and a family zoom."

— "Keep it small, live another day and think big next year!"

— "My extended family will not be coming to our house this year. That means we will be 2 at the table instead of 25."

— "Not celebrating at all. Too risky for myself and family."

— "We're sad that we can't be with relatives in person, but know that saving lives is worth it. And it's actually been kind of fun figuring out what things to do online and will make a great story to tell the grandkids someday."

— "I want to be here next year and a few more after that. So I’m following all precautions."

— "We are celebrating normally with the exception of not having my 1 sons family who's wife is a front line Pharmacist in a hospital."

A few respondents said they were not changing their plans.

— "Live your life. Nothing is guaranteed and there are many more ways to die more likely than COVID, including the mental health effects of long-term isolation and suicides from economic devastation."

— "I think one should be able to Celebrate with family"

— "I’m not in favor of the government (the governor) restricting me and my family. As a matter of fact, I resent it! And our poor small businesses! Not good."

Gov. Tim Walz Wednesday announced a "four-week pause" on social activities, in-person dining, sports, and gym usage as a way to combat the latest spike in coronavirus cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.

Walz's office has ramped up warnings and restrictions related to the virus as cases have "skyrocketed" across the state and the region.

Respondents to Patch's survey also overwhelmingly said they were concerned about how Thanksgiving will contribute to a rise in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations. Respondents also agreed that those celebrating with people outside of their households should wear face masks.