Preparing a large meal, which often features a turkey with all the trimmings, is a time-honored tradition.
Food defrosts from the outside inward.
If left to thaw at room temperature, bacteria can multiply to dangerous levels on the outside of the turkey before the inside thaws completely. Allow one day for each five pounds. Thaw the turkey in a clean sink. Put it in a heavy plastic freezer bag secured with a twist tie. Cover the bird with cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.