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  • 5 cooking classes that will help you ace your Thanksgiving dinner
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5 cooking classes that will help you ace your Thanksgiving dinner

From how to make your own pie crust to learning all of the gravy basics, here’s where to learn everything you need for Thanksgiving Day.

By Michele Kettner November 1, 2019 at 1:26 pm

Photo courtesy Sur la Table

Can’t tell a cranberry from a crouton? Don’t worry, these local classes have you covered. You’ll be whipping up a basted turkey and sweet apple pie in no time.

Families Unplugged: Turkey Day Treats
Let your kids get in on Thanksgiving Day fun by having the family create a turkey centerpiece for the table. This isn’t your normal centerpiece, as this one will be crafted out of fruits and veggies. This program is intended for children ages 5 and older. // Nov. 16; 10 a.m.-noon; Walter Reed Community Center: 2909 16th St. S., Arlington; $8-$9.20

This post originally appeared in our November 2019 issue. Want more fun things to do? Subscribe to our newsletters.

Thanksgiving Essentials
If this is your first time cooking a turkey, head over to Sur La Table to learn the basics for creating a Thanksgiving Day meal. Impress your guests by learning how to make a dry-brined roasted turkey with wild mushroom gravy, buttermilk mashed potatoes and pumpkin mousse with bourbon whipped cream. // Nov. 16; noon; Sur La Table: 1101 S. Joyce St., Suite B-20, Arlington; $79

Cookie Decorating: Thanksgiving Sugar Cookies
Skip the pumpkin pie this year and show off your baking skills with some cute Thanksgiving cookies. Make your dessert plate extra festive with colorful leaf, turkey and pumpkin cookies. This class is open to participants 13 and older. // Nov. 23; 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; Fran’s Cake & Candy Supplies: 10927 Main St., Fairfax; $85

Wine & Thanksgiving Pie Pairing
Spend the day at the vineyard sampling Thanksgiving’s favorite duo, wine and pie. Pair 8 Chains North’s delectable Thanksgiving wines with tasty pies from Mom’s Apple Pie Company. Be sure to pick up your favorite combo during Thanksgiving week to impress your family at dinner. // Nov. 23 & 24; 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; 8 Chains North: 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford; $9-$14

The Story of Pie
Nothing is more American than pie. Learn about the history of the popular dessert and how the delish dish has been adapted into different cultures. After the history lesson, spend the afternoon indulging your craving of pie with a side of tea. // Nov. 24, 1 p.m.; Green Spring Gardens: 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria; $15-$36

Michele Kettner

Michele Kettner

Audience Engagement Editor

Michele Kettner joined Northern Virginia Magazine in 2020 after spending two semesters as an editorial intern at the magazine. The University of Maryland graduate is currently the audience engagement editor and covers everything from can’t-miss things to do and holiday events to new restaurant and store openings throughout Northern Virginia.

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