I know it sounds crazy, but in my latest ABCNews.com column, I suggest gathering the clan for the big family celebration NOT on the fourth Thursday in November – but sometime in October. And here’s why:

• Expensive: late November airfare can be the highest of the year
• Fewer seats: the big capacity cuts will kick in this fall
• Airfare sales: October is slow for the airlines; there will be bargains

Too much of a traditionalist? Have to have Turkey Day on Thanksgiving? I’ve got some tips for you, too:

• Gather at the cheapest destination: whose house is closest to a big hub?
• Fly the cheapest days: travel the weekend before Thanksgiving, or travel on the big day itself;and don’t leave on Sunday – how about Monday or Tuesday?

All the details are in the column – including thoughts on, who gets the drumsticks?