Above all, the one thing that never fails to get people talking is a shared love of the latest TV show, movie, or book. If you’re stuck in an awkward silence, ask your family or friends about the best shows they’ve recently binge-watched or the latest book they couldn’t put down. You’ll even have something to watch and read once the holiday break comes around.

• What show are you most excited about right now?
• Where were you when [insert topical event] happened?
• How did you celebrate last year?
• What holiday movie are you looking forward to seeing?
• What are you most thankful for?