For Kimberly Darling, Thanksgiving means ditching the traditional turkey in favour of alligator, adding a swampy twist to her feast near Chicago. While the holiday typically stars turkey, daring hosts like Darling and others embrace alternatives like antelope, kangaroo, and elk. Meat providers note a rising demand for exotic options, with S. Ottomanelli & Sons reporting up to 25% of Thanksgiving orders for meats like kangaroo and elk. Individuals like Ed Butler from New Hampshire and Kim Famighetti from Austin are enthusiastic about serving various game meats, elevating the holiday menu with elk, bear, and antelope. Despite the hefty prices and unusual choices like python steak, consumers continue to explore unique meats, emphasising tradition while expanding culinary horizons.

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