What Meghan Markle Says Prince Harry Would Never Forgive Her for Skipping This Thanksgiving

A Cozy Holiday at Montecito: and One Non‑Negotiable Request

As the leaves fall and the holiday season approaches, Meghan Markle is opening the door to a warm, cozy glimpse of how she and Prince Harry spend Thanksgiving at their Montecito home. Through her “As Ever” lifestyle newsletter, she shares the details of a holiday that’s grounded in family, love, and tradition with one dish that’s absolutely essential. According to Meghan, if there’s anything Harry would never forget to ask for on Thanksgiving, it’s a rich, comforting gravy.

For the Duchess of Sussex, Thanksgiving isn’t about glamor or grandeur; it’s about simplicity, togetherness, and making memories. She talks about preparing the meal with care, often involving their children in the kitchen, chopping veggies and herbs ahead of time to allow for stress‑free cooking when the day arrives. It’s a scene that feels more like a warm family home than a celebrity household.

Making It a Family Affair: Kids, Cooking, and Comfort

Meghan’s holiday philosophy centers on togetherness and intention. She encourages involving children in this case, their son and daughter, in meal prep. A simple task like chopping vegetables becomes a shared activity, a chance for little hands to help build something meaningful. A sense of pride and inclusion blossoms when kids feel they’re contributing to the family’s holiday dinner.

Beyond the cooking, Meghan emphasizes atmosphere. She talks about setting a thoughtful table, tending to the mood inside the house, and making guests or family members feel genuinely welcomed and at ease. For her, a successful Thanksgiving is one where hearts feel full long before bellies do.

The Menu That Matters: Turkey, Sage Honey, Mashed Potatoes and Yes, Gravy

While Meghan sprinkles in creative touches like using herbs from their garden or blending carrot tops into pesto for a fresh, unexpected side, she keeps the core of the meal familiar and comforting. Expect classic dishes: creamy mashed potatoes, a simple green salad livened up with edible flower petals, and of course, a beautifully roasted turkey.

But the star is gravy. Rich, warm, and deeply satisfying, that gravy is the one dish she says Harry would never forgive her for skipping. It’s more than a side; it’s a holiday staple that ties the entire meal together. A bit of gravy on potatoes, turkey, or vegetables is the difference between a good dinner and a memorable Thanksgiving.

Intention Behind Hosting Warmth, Inclusion, and Thoughtfulness

Meghan’s approach to holiday hosting reflects her values: thoughtfulness, community, and care. She encourages hosts not to shoulder all the work alone to accept help from family, friends, and even guests. The goal isn’t perfection, but presence. It’s about being there. It’s about connection.

In her own words, she wants guests, whether friends or family, to feel comfortable, welcomed, and appreciated. She suggests simple touches: candles to set the mood (unscented in the kitchen so food aromas shine), light appetizers to break the ice, and perhaps a board game or two to foster conversation. For Meghan, those small details matter as much as the main course.

Why This Matters: Traditions, Simplicity, and Real Connection

In an age of polished images and Instagram‑ready holiday tables, Meghan’s Thanksgiving message lands with quiet sincerity. She’s not chasing extravagance or grandeur. She’s leaning into warmth, purpose, and the kind of intimacy that leaves a lasting impression.

Her reveal about Harry’s “must‑have” gravy isn’t a celebrity quirk; it’s a gentle reminder that traditions, no matter how simple, anchor us. A family gathered around a table, kids helping in the kitchen, laughter, comfort food, and a touch of effort that’s what makes a holiday special.