I

t's November, that festive time of year when we gather together to ask the Lord's blessings…to fill up on traditional foods like turkey, pumpkin pie, turkey, cranberry sauce, candied yams, and (belch) turkey leftovers…to count the shopping days till Christmas…to watch endless hours of football…and for a cornucopia of reasons to celebrate November!

By the way, a friend of mine gives a "leftovers" party on the Friday after Thanksgiving every year. Everyone brings a different entrée or dessert and the food is fabulous. It's something to consider…Thanksgiving with family, and Friday-after with friends!

No matter how you celebrate November, when the gang's all here, there's sure to be an abundance of food, fun, and festivities!

November is…

National American Indian Heritage Month - In honor of Native Americans, host a "First Thanksgiving Meal", featuring some of the foods served in 1621, when the Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag Indians enjoyed an autumnal feast. Through cooperation and collaboration, they dined on geese, turkey, lobster, cod, duck, and venison with a host of side dishes made of Indian corn and assorted fruits. Go ahead - prepare your main dish and make your own cornbread, whip up your own butter (just put buttermilk in a jar and shake it till it turns to butter), make fruit compote, bake apple and pumpkin pies, dress as Pilgrims and Indians and have yourselves an old fashioned Thanksgiving! The kids can get into the spirit, too. Have them paint paper grocery bags with Native American designs and wear them as vests by cutting a vertical slit down the front, armholes in the gussets, and fringe at the bottom.

 

National Fig Week - Nov. 1-7. This is a holiday to give thanks for the almighty California fig and to create an awareness of its high-fiber and nutritional dietary value. But what about its versatility and fashion potential? If this isn't an invitation to dress (or undress) like our founding mom and pop, nothing is. Have an "Adam and Eve Party" - fig leaves optional. For info: California Fit Advisory Board, PO Box 709, Fresno, CA 93713. (900) 588-2344. Fax: (559) 224-3449. info@californiafigs.com.

 

National Lifewriting Month - Like you need an excuse to talk about yourself! This is the perfect time to get all the juicy details down on paper and to share the story of your life and hard times with your friends at a "This Is My Life Party". Make sure everyone brings their own autobiographical stories and watch the fun (and blushes) begin! For info: Soleil Lifestory Network.

 

Peanut Butter Lovers' Month - Mmmmm….Peanut Butter cookies… sandwiches… candy… cakes… You'd have to be nutty to resist that stick-to-the-roof-of-your-mouth sensation! Need to raise money for some worthy cause? Have a Peanut Butter Bake-off, accepting only original recipes using peanut butter as the main ingredient, to celebrate America's favorite food and #1 sandwich! For info: Peanut Advisory Board, 500 Sugar Mill Rd., Ste. 105A, Atlanta, GA30350. www.peanutbutterlovers.com.

 

Other Holidays

November 3

Japan: Culture Day - Ah-so! Take this opportunity to learn about Japan, its people, and its culture. Invite your friends to dress in kimonos, decorate with festive lanterns and red and white balloons, play Japanese music, and serve Sushi, Saki, and other native Japanese delicacies. Leave your Samurai swords at the door.

 

Sandwich Day - This is the birthday of John Montague, Fourth Earl of Sandwich, the man credited with inventing the sandwich (hence its name). How did he come to invent this popular food? He devised this nourishing food model as an effort to save time so he could focus his full attention on his 24-hour gambling junket - and we've enjoyed the sandwich ever since! Timesaving and delicious "sandwiches for everyone" at your next Casino Night Party!

 

Birthdays of Dennis Miller and Roseanne Barr - 1952. Talk about the astrological phenomena of the 20th century! The heavens must have really been in (or out of) alignment to make way for the birth of these two super stars. Here's a FUNtastic idea for a party: Host an All-Star Humor Extravaganza and invite your friends to impersonate their favorite comedians/comediennes at an open-mike night.

November 4

Anniversary of the King Tut Tomb Discovery - Celebrate one of the greatest archaeological discoveries ever! Tutankhamen became pharaoh of Egypt at the tender age of nine and died at nineteen. His royal tomb was discovered intact 3000 years after his death and the relics may be seen in Egypt's National Museum in Cairo. Tut! Tut! It's Party Time! Go ahead - invite your friends to walk, talk, and dress like an Egyptian!

 

Mischief Night - Traditionally a British holiday celebrated in England, Australia, and New Zealand, I don't see any reason not to bring it over for us Yanks to take a shot at! After all, mischief is a birthright of ALL children! Have a Mischievous Memories Party and share stories of the most memorable mischief you've ever gotten into, with prizes for the funniest, stupidest, and naughtiest pranks.

 

Birthday of Will Rogers - Born in 1879, William Penn Adair Rogers, the American writer, actor, humorist, and grassroots philosopher once said, "I never met a man I didn't like." Obviously, he never met some of the men I've dated! Call all your girlfriends and have a "Man-Bashing Party."

 

Loretta Swit's Birthday - 1937. Actress noted for her starring role in the TV series M*A*S*H*. Great theme for a party!

November 5

Birthday of Roy Rogers - 1912. Who could forget the "King of Cowboys," his lovely wife, Dale Evans, and his horse, Trigger, as they wished us "Happy Trails" every week in the '50's? Have a "Happy Trails Western Party" for old time's sake!

November 10

Richard Burton's 75th Birthday - 1925 - 1984. One of the greatest acting talents of our time, this Welsch-born actor is best remembered for his roles in Cleopatra, Becket, Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf?, Anne of a Thousand Days, and Equus (not to mention being the husband of Elizabeth Taylor). Perhaps there's a Taylor-made "Best of Burton Movie Party" in your future. Rent the videos and have a ball!

 

Microsoft Releases Windows: Anniversary - Yes, it seems like only yesterday, but it was on this date in 1983 that Windows, an extension of the MS-DOS program, was unleashed on the unsuspecting masses to make us PC-dependent and ever-so-much more intelligent. Have a PC Party - All Crashers Welcome!

 

"Sesame Street" TV Premiere Anniversary - 1969. Education and fun, all rolled into one. This feature brought to you by the letter "P" for "Party." Through singing, puppetry, and film clips, children have been learning their numbers and letters for 31 years! For kids and adults everywhere, today's the perfect day to have a "Sesame Street Party." (After all, if you can read this, you probably have Bert & Ernie, Big Bird, Grover, The Count, Kermit the Frog, and Oscar to thank!) There's tons of Sesame Street partyware items on the market to make your party extra special.

November 11

Bonza Bottler Day™ - "To celebrate when the number of the day is the same as the number of the month…an excuse to have a party at least once a month." No argument here! 

 

"God Bless America" First Performed - 1938. Written especially for Kate Smith, this patriotic classic became her signature piece and most requested song. Have a God Bless America patriotic-themed party - lots of flags, stars & stripes, red, white & blue balloons, patriotic music - the works! Is this a great country or what?!

 

Veterans Day - Formerly known as "Armistice Day", this patriotic holiday memorializes veterans who have served their country. Many people observe silent memorial at the 11th hour of the11th day of the 11th month. Generally celebrated with parades and speeches. Have your own patriotic celebration (see "God Bless America" above for suggestions.)

November 12

Grace Kelly's Birthday - 1929. Stunning American award-winning actress, noted for her roles in To Catch a Thief and Rear Window, to name a few of the over fifty movies she made. In one of her most glamorous portrayals, her incredible beauty captured the heart of Prince Rainier III. In 1956 they were married and Grace Kelly became known as Princess Grace of Monaco. A tragic car accident ended her fairytale life in 1982. Calling all would-be princesses…make today a Princess Day! Invite your friends for a Pamper Me Party -- do the spa thing or give each other manicures, pedicures, hairdos. Top off the day with champagne and decadent desserts fit for a queen!

November 15

America Recycles Day - Don't throw it away - re-use, re-sell, recycle it! Have a joint venture Garage Sale with some friends and donate the cash to a hospital or charity. For info: Environmental Defense Fund, 257 Park Ave. South, New York, NY 10010. (800) CALL-LEDF. www.edf.org.

 

American Education Week - . Education Rules! If you can read this, thank a teacher with a Teacher Appreciation Party! For info: Natl. Teachers Assn. (NEA), 1201 16th St. NW, Washington, DC 20036. (202) 833-4000. www.nea.org.

November 17

Homemade Bread Day - Mmmm…nothing says lovin' like fresh-baked bread in the oven! Invite your friends and family to make, bake, and enjoy the wonders of bread, right in your own kitchen. Have a Bread Tasting Party, inviting guests to bring their favorite homemade breads (with recipes to share). Beside its nutritional value, bread dough can also be used to make decorative holiday ornaments, wreaths, and baskets. Just bake, cool, varnish, and voila! You can be the Martha Stewart of Homemade Bread! For info: Homemade Bread Day Committee, PO Box 3, Montague, MI 49437-0003.

 

World Peace Day - A day set aside for every one of us to demonstrate our desire for peace, often noted by prayers, driving with headlights on, wearing a white ribbon (symbolic of peace), and petition-signing. Have a Pray for Peace Party, complete with goodies from all ethnic backgrounds. For info: peaceguy@peaceday.org. www.peaceday.org.

 

Martin Scorcese's Birthday - 1942. One of the all-time great film directors. Among his classics are Mean Streets, The Color of Money, Raging Bull, Goodfellas. Sounds like a Scorcese Film Fest to me!

November 18

Mickey Mouse's Birthday - "The comical activities of squeaky-voiced Mickey Mouse first appeared in 1928, on the screen of the Colony Theater at New York City. The film, Walt Disney's "Steamboat Willie," was the first animated cartoon talking picture." Grab your mouse ears, rent some Mickey Mouse cartoons, and invite everyone you know to a Mickey Mouse Theme Party! Lots of Mickey Mouse partyware products are available to add to the fun and festivities.

 

Alan Shepard's Birthday - 1923-1998. First American in space, this former astronaut is in a very elite group. Not only is he one of only 12 people who have walked on the moon, but he holds the distinction for being the only American lunar golfer. He actually took his six iron in space and practiced his drive. Now really - if you were going in space, what is the single personal item you'd take with you? Have a Lunar Walk and Talk Party -- use celestial themed decorations and have your guests tell what they'd bring with them on a journey into space and why. It's sure to make for an interesting evening!

November 19

Birthday of James A. Garfield - 1939 - 1882. Not only was he the twentieth president of the United States, but he holds the added distinction of being the first lefty president! His term and life were cut short by an assassin's bullet. Host a Lefty Party - make invitations that open backwards, have everyone use only their left hands throughout the party, and let the fun begin!

 

"Rocky and His Friends" TV Premiere Anniversary - 1959. "Watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat - Oops! Wrong hat!" Only one of thousands of humorous bits and antics on the show which provided hours of delightful entertainment to young and old. Rocket J. Squirrel, known as Rocky to his friends and viewers, blasted into our living rooms each week, accompanied by his partner in fun, Bullwinkle, the lovable though flaky moose. These popular cartoon characters, their villainous counterparts, Boris Badenov and Natasha, Fractured Fairy Tales, Bullwinkle's Corner, Mr. Peabody (the brilliant talking dog) and Sherman live on in our hearts - and recently reappeared on the silver screen. Host a Rocky & Bullwinkle Party, with everyone dressing up as their favorite characters, ready to act out their favorite parts.

 

Have a Bad Day Day:- For those who are filled with revulsion at being told daily to "have a nice day," this day is a brief respite. Store and business owners are to ask workers to tell customers to "have a bad day." Annually, November 19^th

November 22

National Game and Puzzle Week - A great reason for a party—games, puzzles and more! Have them all over and play, play, play. 

 

November 24

Happy Thanksgiving! - Check out our Thanksgiving Day Planning Guide for great holiday ideas!

November 25

Joe DiMaggio's Birthday - 1914-1999. Now there was a baseball hero! Noted for his hitting streak in 56 consecutive games, he was American League MVP for three years, batting champ in '39, led the league in RBI's in '41 and 48, and a Baseball Hall of Fame inductee. But wait - there's more. Joe made headlines with his marriage to actress Marilyn Monroe. After retiring from baseball, he perked up our lives as spokesperson for Mr. Coffee™. Have a Baseball Theme Party and show clips, blips, and bloopers from old baseball games, with guests doing the play-by-plays. Top it off with plenty of peanuts, popcorn, Cracker Jacks™ and foot-long hotdogs. Mmmmm. Batters up…and bottoms up!

 

Shopping Reminder Day - Only 24 shopping days to Christmas. Get ready, get set…SHOP!

November 26

Casablanca Premiere Anniversary - 1942. Everyone knows that Bogie and Bergman starred in this classic romantic film, but did you know that due to the landing of the Allies in North Africa on November 8th, its release was moved up 7 months to Thanksgiving Day? It was then released to general audiences in January,1943 during Roosevelt-Churchill conferences, held in…you guessed it…Casablanca! Turn your party room into Rick's Café and have a "Return to Casablanca" or "Play it Again, Sam" party, with invited guests dressed as Bogie & Berman in trench coats and floppy-brimmed hats…oh, my heart be still!

 

Sojourner Truth, Death Anniversary - 1883. Born about 1790, this amazing African American woman was sold as a slave four different times in her early lifetime, but went on to become one of the first activists for abolition and women's rights. Okay, girlfriends - stand up and be counted. Read books and articles by famous women and present your findings at a Women Count party.

 

"The Price Is Right" TV Premiere Anniversary - 1956. This popular price-guessing show is TV's longest-running daily game show. Contestants are selected from the studio audience and have to guess the price of items closest to, and without going over, the manufacturer's suggested price. It's fun and particularly apropos this time of year. Have a Price Is Right party - using the packaged retail version or make your own. Either way, guests will have a great time showing off their shopping savvy.

November 27

Black Friday - The busiest shopping day of the year. If you ask me, it should be Green Friday, with all the cash that changes hands. And when you're all done, get together with your friends for a drink.

You'll need it. Happy Shopping!

 

Buy Nothing Day - Hmmm. Does this make sense? Holding "Buy Nothing Day" the day after Thanksgiving which happens to be the busiest shopping day of the year?! Oh well. 

 

Sinkie Day - "Sinkies (people who occasionally dine over the kitchen sink) are encouraged to celebrate this time-honored, casual-yet-tasteful cuisine culture. This is a particularly appropriate day to become acquainted with the Sinkie style of dining" …using leftovers from Thanksgiving. I love this idea. Invite everyone over to eat over the sink—think of how little there will be to clean up (unless you’re without a disposal). For information, contact the Intl. Assn. of People Who Dine Over The Kitchen Sink.