Breakers might still be decorated for the holidays too, which is usually impressive. My parents took a friend there after Christmas and it was still all decked out. Not sure how long they keep it that way.

It’s been 10 years since I lived there but I loved JP (Jamaica Plain). It’s part of Boston but there’s a lot of green space for walking/biking/running, etc. Much lower property taxes but the downside is dealing with Boston Public Schools or paying for private school. Worth a look though.

Another vote for Warren. I grew up there, classic small town America but better schools, restaurants, art scene etc. over the past decade or two.

Edit: it’s about 30 min to Newport and maybe 20 to Providence.

Yes, that’s definitely an option, you just have to make sure you keep it cold enough that the turkey doesn’t spoil.

I also started brining my turkey several years ago and I definitely think it’s better.

A brine bag is the way to go. It’s a very thick plastic bag so it resists leaks. It’s easier to get in your fridge than trying to brine the turkey in a big pot (like a lobster pot) and trying to fit that in your fridge.

I didn’t have anybody to show me how to do it, I just figured it out from the internet. It’s not that hard, just read up on it now, so you can get everything you need ahead of time. Good luck!

Edit, I just realized that this redditor was talking about a dry brine, sorry. I’ve never done that, I’ve always done a wet brine. But I would agree that the dry brine is probably easier and maybe a good place to start.

The wet brine worked out fine for me but I had cooked a few turkeys before trying it out. The dry brine is probably easier for a first timer? Again, good luck.

Most grocery store will let you reserve a fresh turkey now.

You tell them size (how many pounds) and when you want to pick it up. The turkey will take up a lot of fridge space, so I always order several weeks in advance and then pick it up the morning before Thanksgiving (Wednesday). Then I brine it overnight and cook it Thanksgiving day.

At the risk of jinxing myself, I’ve never had an issue, they always have my turkey ready at pick up time the day before Thanksgiving. I’ve always used Stop and Shop and been perfectly satisfied. We just got a Market Basket, so I may try them this year.