Thanksgiving Traditions to Gobble Up from the GMA Hosts

1. Make Time for Loved Ones

To the GMA hosts, the best part of the holiday is gathering with friends and family and enjoying cherished moments together Taking a second to look around and feel the warmth of the people in your life is all you need to do this holiday to truly embrace the day.

"Thanksgiving is all about bringing people together. I love inviting as many people as possible, whether they’re family or friends. The more, the merrier," says co-anchor Michael Strahan.

This year, co-anchor Robin Roberts plans to trade in the crisp northeastern air for sea breezes as she travels to Florida. "Normally, we have a big family gathering, but this year Amber and I are spending Thanksgiving just the two of us in Key West," says Roberts. "It’s our happy place, and I’m looking forward to reflecting on our blessings in a peaceful setting."

2. Buffet All the Way

When asked how they serve a Thanksgiving meal, the hosts revealed that they usually opt for a buffet, dish-it-yourself style. "We’ve had it both ways, but I’d say it’s more of a free-for-all," says Strahan. "People tend to go back for seconds or thirds before they even finish the first one. It’s all about making sure everyone gets what they want, and there’s never any shortage of food."

Roberts and her loved ones enjoy a delectable tablescape, with the turkey taking center stage and the side dishes surrounding it. Co-anchor George Stephanopoulos agrees that a buffet is a necessity so everyone can load their plate with the exact portions and items to make them (and their bellies) happy.

3. Timing Is Key

The time of day your Thanksgiving meal is served makes all the difference, according to the hosts. For Roberts and Stephanopoulos, 2 p.m. is the sweet spot, leaving plenty of time post-meal to relax and be present. While some families elect for midday, many spend the day in anticipation of dinner with light snacking as parades and sports stream across televisions.

"I’ve had Thanksgiving as early as 1 p.m., but it’s usually around 5 p.m.," says Strahan. "That gives everyone time to relax, watch a little football, and work up an appetite before we sit down. Plus, after dinner, there’s always room for dessert!"

4. Designate Roles in the Kitchen

"Thanksgiving is a team effort in the kitchen," says Roberts. "Everyone brings their favorite dish. I always look forward to my sister’s mother-in-law’s chicken and dumplings—they were the highlight of every meal."

Designating dishes makes for an organized kitchen (and a stress-free holiday). Stephanopoulos is in charge of the turkey each year, and his spouse, Alexandra Wentworth, makes the side dishes. As for Strahan, his best-learned practice is to stay clear of the kitchen while sending gratitude to the chef.

"Let's just say this: If you’re not the one in the kitchen, it’s best to stay out of the way and make sure you compliment the chef a lot, which is what I do more often than not," says Strahan.

5. Express Gratitude

And don't forget to give thanks while the food is still hot. Many take the opportunity to circle the table (in between bites) and share what they're most grateful for over the past year. Roberts notes that Thanksgiving is about being together and appreciating the gift of each other's company. "That’s truly the greatest gift," she says.

When asked what they're most thankful for this year, the responses from the hosts were nothing short of heartwarming.

"This year, I’m especially thankful for my family’s health and for the time we get to spend together, says Strahan. "With everything going on in the world, it’s the little things that count the most. I’m also grateful for the chance to keep doing what I love and to be able to share those moments with the people who matter most to me."

"I'm most thankful for family, friends, and good health—these are the things that matter the most," says Stephanopoulos.