Quiz: How to Host a Holiday Gathering

More than half of adults 50-plus (52 percent) say holiday travel is worthwhile when loved ones can gather in one place. Others value making memories across generations (35 percent), reconnecting with people they do not see often (32 percent) and maintaining family traditions (29 percent).

Cost is the leading travel concern, cited by 52 percent of those surveyed. Still, 43 percent expect to spend at least $2,000, and 18 percent expect to spend $5,000 or more. Nearly 4 in 10 (38 percent) expect to spend more on travel than on holiday gifts. 

To save money, please your guests and bring goodies to other hosts, look for opportunities to buy in bulk. For example, one case of your favorite moderately priced wine might cover multiple events. You’ll also find a wide assortment of festive foods at Costco or Sam’s Club. Just be sure not to overbuy.

Defrosting in the refrigerator is the safest method. Plan for one day of thawing there for every 4 to 5 pounds of turkey. You should never thaw your frozen turkey by leaving it on the counter at room temperature. In fact, no food should be left out in what is called the danger zone — between 40 and 140 degrees F — for more than two hours because this is when bacteria grows rapidly.