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Arizona 'Thanksgiving grandma' Wanda Dench joins Airbnb to host strangers for festive holiday dinner

Wanda Dench went viral when she mistakenly texted Jamal Hinton instead of her grandson with a Thanksgiving dinner invite in 2016

PRESCOTT VALLEY, ARIZONA: Arizona's beloved 'Thanksgiving Grandma' Wanda Dench, who achieved Internet fame after mistakenly inviting a stranger to her family's Thanksgiving dinner in 2016, is once again opening her heart and home to embrace the spirit of the holiday season.

It all began when Dench mistakenly texted Jamal Hinton instead of her grandson with a Thanksgiving dinner invite.

Hinton's polite acceptance and Dench's heartfelt welcome

Hinton, recognizing the mix-up, courteously responded, but Dench, displaying an incredible warmth and open-heartedness, insisted he join them for the feast.

Arizona's Family recounted Dench playfully recalling their initial Thanksgiving dinner. “I do know the first Thanksgiving he didn’t bring anything over,” Wanda said jokingly. “Wow! Throwing people under the bus, golly!” laughed Jamal.

Since that fortuitous mix-up, Hinton has been a welcome guest at Dench's Thanksgiving table every year.

Join 'Thanksgiving Grandma' and Jamal Hinton for a festive dinner experience

This year, Dench, affectionately known as the 'Thanksgiving Grandma', is partnering with Airbnb to extend her warm hospitality to more guests.

In an effort to recreate the magic of that accidental tradition, she's inviting two individuals to join her and Hinton for an early festive dinner on November 20 at her residence in Prescott Valley.

The reservation cost is $16, a nod to the year when this accidental yet heartwarming Thanksgiving tradition commenced.

While guests are responsible for their travel expenses, the opportunity to share in this unique tradition with Dench and Hinton promises to be a priceless experience.

On Airbnb's platform, the event's description encapsulates the heartwarming story, saying, "Some may recognize us from our viral text mishap that led to our first Thanksgiving together back in 2016. And eight years later, we’re practically family. To commemorate our lasting friendship, we’re excited to become Airbnb Hosts and welcome new guests into our holiday tradition, creating meaningful connections in the process."

The heartwarming tale of Wanda Dench and Jamal Hinton's accidental Thanksgiving connection has transcended a mere mishap, transforming into a beautiful tradition that exemplifies the true spirit of the holiday season.