30 Best Thanksgiving Activities For Families

Thanksgiving is such a special time, isn’t it? 😀 Families come together, tables are set with delicious food, and there’s this cozy sense of gratitude in the air. But, as much as the meal is a huge part of Thanksgiving, there’s so much more we can do to make the day memorable. That’s where Thanksgiving activities come in! 🥳

This list of 30 Thanksgiving activities will give your family plenty of fun, bonding moments, and maybe even start a few new traditions. 😎

I’ve gathered a mix of activities that everyone can enjoy, from simple crafts for the little ones to games that even the adults won’t want to miss. 😍

Whether you’re looking to get outdoors, try a creative DIY project, or simply have some laid-back fun after dinner, there’s an activity here for every kind of family vibe. 😜

I’ll even share a few stories from my own Thanksgiving days 🤓—because, let’s face it, a good memory is the best part of any holiday!

So, if you’re ready to make this Thanksgiving one to remember, dive into these Thanksgiving activities and let the good times begin. You might just find a new family favorite! 🤪

1. Family Bonding Games

Sometimes, the simplest games bring the biggest laughs. 😆 From classic board games to Thanksgiving charades, these activities let everyone—kids, teens, and adults—join in on the fun. There’s nothing like a little friendly competition to spark some holiday cheer! 🥳

2. Gratitude Circle

A gratitude circle is a beautiful way to kick off Thanksgiving activities. Have each person share something they’re thankful for. It’s a lovely reminder of the little (and big) things we sometimes overlook. 🤩

3. DIY Thanksgiving Crafts

Crafting is a favorite Thanksgiving activity for kids, but adults can join in too! Try making handprint turkeys, leaf garlands, or paper pumpkins. It’s a creative way to decorate while keeping little hands busy. 🙂

4. Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt

Create a Thanksgiving-themed scavenger hunt in your home or backyard. 🤠 This is one of the best Thanksgiving activities for kids to explore and discover. Adults can join in too, or hide the clues!

5. Pumpkin Bowling

Transform pumpkins into “bowling balls” for a fun Thanksgiving activity. Set up pins (like empty cans) and let everyone try their hand at rolling the pumpkin down the “lane.” 🎃

6. Cooking Together

Cooking the Thanksgiving feast doesn’t have to fall on one person. Make it a family event! Divvy up tasks, let kids stir and mix, and watch the magic happen. It’s a fun Thanksgiving activity that also makes the meal more meaningful. 😋

7. Thanksgiving Movie Marathon

After a big meal, nothing feels better than relaxing with a Thanksgiving movie marathon. It’s a great way to wind down and enjoy time together. 🤓

8. Volunteer Together

Giving back as a family is a meaningful Thanksgiving activity for adults and kids alike. Spend a few hours at a local food bank or shelter, or bring items to donate. 🥰

9. Decorate a Thankful Tree

Create a Thankful Tree with branches and paper leaves. Each family member can write what they’re thankful for on a leaf and hang it on the tree—a lovely way to display gratitude. 🥰

10. Thanksgiving Nature Walk

A peaceful nature walk is a wonderful way to connect with family and enjoy the fall scenery. Collect leaves, pinecones, and acorns to use for other Thanksgiving activities when you’re back 😇.

11. Family History Storytelling

Share family stories and learn more about past generations. This Thanksgiving activity lets everyone connect with their roots and creates a sense of belonging. 🤠

12. Photo Booth Fun

Set up a DIY photo booth with Thanksgiving props. It’s a fun Thanksgiving activity for kids and adults alike, and you’ll have memories to keep. 🥸

13. Board Game Tournament

Organize a tournament with classic games everyone loves. It’s a simple, entertaining way to spend the holiday together. 🥳

14. Create Thanksgiving Memory Books

Scrapbook a Thanksgiving memory book with everyone adding their favorite memories and photos. This Thanksgiving activity creates a keepsake that grows more meaningful each year. 🤩

15. Story Time for the Kids

Gather the little ones for a cozy story time with Thanksgiving-themed books. It’s a quiet activity that gives kids a chance to wind down. 🥱

16. Outdoor Football or Tag

Get outdoors and burn off some energy with a friendly game of football or tag. It’s a Thanksgiving activity the whole family can enjoy, and it works off some of that pumpkin pie! 🫠

17. Decorate Thanksgiving Cookies

Baking and decorating Thanksgiving-themed cookies is a creative and tasty activity. Kids love getting hands-on, and adults get to enjoy the sweet results. 😋

18. Turkey Trot Race

A mini Turkey Trot race is a fun Thanksgiving activity that lets everyone get a little competitive and stretch their legs. Winner gets bragging rights! 🥳

19. Family Talent Show

Let everyone showcase their talents—singing, dancing, or even telling jokes. It’s a lively Thanksgiving activity that creates plenty of laughs. 🤣

20. Craft Thanksgiving Place Cards

Create personalized place cards for the Thanksgiving table. It’s a simple, crafty activity that adds a personal touch to dinner. 😍

21. Pumpkin Tic-Tac-Toe

Play a festive game of Tic-Tac-Toe using mini pumpkins and acorns as markers. This Thanksgiving activity is perfect for kids and adults who enjoy a lighthearted challenge. 🤪

22. Write Thanksgiving Cards

Sit down together and write Thanksgiving cards to loved ones or those who couldn’t attend. It’s a thoughtful way to stay connected and show you’re thinking of them. 😊

23. Thanksgiving Puzzle Challenge

Work together on a Thanksgiving-themed puzzle. It’s a relaxing Thanksgiving activity for adults and kids, perfect for winding down after the big meal. 😎

24. Make Gratitude Jars

Create gratitude jars by writing things you’re thankful for on slips of paper. Save them to read next Thanksgiving as a reminder of this year’s moments. 🥳

25. Decorate the Dinner Table Together

Get everyone involved in decorating the Thanksgiving table. It’s a simple but meaningful activity that lets everyone put their personal touch on the dinner setting. 🤩

26. Thanksgiving Bingo

Thanksgiving Bingo is a fun game for kids and adults, featuring holiday-related images or words on Bingo cards. It’s a lighthearted, easy game everyone can enjoy. 🥳

27. Plan Next Year’s Gathering

Take a few minutes to brainstorm ideas for next Thanksgiving. Reflecting on what everyone loved this year makes next year even better! 😎

28. Play “Who Am I?” Game

A Thanksgiving twist on “Who Am I?” where players guess which family member or famous Thanksgiving figure they’re pretending to be. It’s fun for all ages and sure to bring some laughs. 😲

29. Have a S’mores Night

End the day with a cozy S’mores night, whether outdoors by a fire pit or indoors with a mini marshmallow roast. It’s a delicious way to finish off Thanksgiving. 😝

30. Group Family Photo Session

Don’t forget to capture the day! Gather everyone for a group family photo session to preserve memories. It’s a perfect way to end a day full of Thanksgiving activities. 🤠

And there you have it—30 one of the kind Thanksgiving activities to make this holiday memorable! Whether you’re crafting, cooking, playing games, or sharing stories, these moments are what make Thanksgiving truly special. 🥳

I love that these simple activities allow us to spend quality time together, create new traditions, and just enjoy each other’s company without any rush. 🥰

Thanksgiving is about more than just a great meal; it’s a chance to pause and appreciate the people in our lives.

Whether you’re gathered around a board game or the dinner table, these Thanksgiving activities remind us of what really matters: family, gratitude, and a whole lot of laughter. 😂

I hope you and your family find a few new favorites from this list, and maybe even make a few memories you’ll treasure for years to come. Happy Thanksgiving! 💗