Butterball has introduced the Butterball Buddy, a free, turkey-shaped device designed to help Thanksgiving hosts distribute cooking, cleaning and other holiday tasks among their guests.
The gadget is passed around during the gathering. When it chimes and vibrates, the person holding it receives a preprogrammed chore, such as setting the table, helping prepare food or washing dishes. After completing the task, that guest passes the device to someone else so responsibilities can be shared before, during and after the meal.
The limited-edition Butterball Buddy is being released ahead of Thanksgiving 2026 through three giveaways in November. The first giveaway begins November 2 at 1 p.m. ET through Butterball’s dedicated website, with additional quantities becoming available at the same time on November 9 and November 16. Each giveaway is limited to available supplies.
Butterball said the idea was informed by its 2026 Togetherness Report. According to the company, 85% of Thanksgiving hosts would prefer guests to offer help, but only 38% ask them to contribute. The company also reported that one-third of hosts avoid requesting assistance because they do not want to inconvenience their guests.
The Butterball Buddy can also be used as a kitchen timer after Thanksgiving. Its back includes contact information for Butterball’s Turkey Talk-Line.
Butterball is reopening the Turkey Talk-Line on November 2 for its 45th anniversary. More than 50 experts will be available through December 24 to answer questions about preparing, thawing, cooking and serving turkey. The service can be reached by calling 1-800-BUTTERBALL, texting 844-877-3456, or contacting Butterball through its website and social media channels.
Sources: Dexerto.