What better theme for a camp family dinner? Here are some tips for creating a Thanksgiving group dinner that can make even the hottest summer camp day feel like fall.

This meal can add a touch of fancy and glamor to an otherwise grungy and rustic camp session. You can even encourage campers and counselors to dress up for this formal occasion!

• Table cover
  • White tablecloths
  • Burlap strips
  • Sticks
  • Colorful plastic leaves
• Name cards for all campers (burlap, leaf cutouts, marker, pins)
• Centerpieces (two options)
  • Leaf candle (white candles, colored leaves, twine)
  • Pinecone bowl (candle, pinecones, plastic pumpkins, large bowl)

• Menus

• Arrange tables in U-shape
• Set up white tablecloths, then place a burlap strip down the center of each table.
• Place sticks and leaves on burlap strip.
• Place one centerpiece on each table and menu next to centerpiece
• Set up plates, silverware and cups.
• Place namecards (in cabin order) at each plate setting.
  • Ask counselors to write their campers’ names beforehand. This will make the campers feel special and also help people find where to sit so it’s not chaotic.
• Instruct the cabin groups to find their tables and campers will sit where they find their name card