Martha Stewart Trades Turkey for Italy in Thanksgiving Getaway With Grandchildren

Martha Stewart, the undisputed queen of home entertaining, surprised fans this year by forgoing the traditional Thanksgiving turkey and opting for an overseas holiday in Rome. The 83-year-old lifestyle icon spent the holiday with her grandchildren, Jude and Truman, embracing Italian culture instead of hosting her usual elaborate feast.

Stewart, who has long been known for her exquisite Thanksgiving spreads and entertaining tips, shared glimpses of her Roman adventure on social media. Her itinerary included visits to historical landmarks such as the Colosseum and Vatican City, as well as indulgent meals featuring classic Italian dishes like pasta carbonara and truffle risotto.

The decision to travel during Thanksgiving reflects a growing trend among Americans who are choosing experiences over tradition. Travel agencies report an increase in holiday bookings, with many families opting for destinations that offer both relaxation and cultural enrichment. According to recent travel data, international Thanksgiving getaways have surged by 20% over the past five years, as more people prioritize creating memories over cooking at home.

"For years, Thanksgiving was all about gathering around the dinner table," said a travel industry analyst. "Now, we’re seeing more families take advantage of the long weekend to explore new places together. The idea of Thanksgiving is evolving—it’s less about the meal and more about the time spent with loved ones, wherever that may be."

Stewart’s decision to travel instead of hosting a grand feast also reflects shifting lifestyle priorities. While she remains an authority on holiday entertaining, her choice to break from tradition sends a message that celebrating Thanksgiving is not confined to a single format. Whether at home or abroad, the emphasis remains on gratitude and quality time with family.

With Thanksgiving travel becoming increasingly popular, Stewart’s Roman holiday might just inspire others to rethink how they spend the holiday season. Whether it’s a Tuscan vineyard, a Parisian café, or a tropical beach, more Americans are discovering that Thanksgiving can be just as meaningful—if not more so—when celebrated in a new and exciting setting.