Fun and Meaningful Thanksgiving Activities to Try This Year

Thanksgiving can often feel like a blur. 

You spend hours cooking, cleaning, prepping ( and let’s be real, worrying if the turkey will be dry again), and suddenly the day is over. Then, everyone is scrolling their phone, pie crumbs are everywhere, and you’re left wondering – was that it?

It doesn’t matter what stage you are in life, or how exactly you are spending Thanksgiving, unless you become super intentional, it will often feel like just another day, which is a shame. Because of all the holidays, Thanksgiving has the most potential.

So, why don’t you try to make this year a little different? More intentional?

What if Thanksgiving didn’t just revolve around food, but also around the feeling of connection, presence, and actual gratitude?

Of course, there are all the tried-and-true Thanksgiving favorites like watching the game, snoozing on the couch, and catching up with relatives. But there are plenty of other ways to make Turkey Day truly intentional.

You don’t need a full event planner itinerary to make it so. You just need a few intentional activities that will make the Thanksgiving feel meaningful and, dare I say, memorable.

Here is our list of 17 simple but heartfelt Thanksgiving activities that will help you slow down, have fun, and maybe even start a new tradition or two. 

17 Thanksgiving Activities You Should Try This Year

1. Write Thank-You Letters to the People Who’ve Made a Difference in Your Life

It’s one thing to feel grateful. It’s another to actually say it out loud, or better yet, write it. 

Set out some simple stationery or index cards and invite everyone to write a simple, heartfelt thank-you letter to someone who impacted their life this year. Maybe it is a teacher, a mentor, a friend. 

It doesn’t matter who. And you don’t even have to send the thank-you letter. Expressing it is more than enough to show your gratitude this Thanksgiving. 

This is a powerful Thanksgiving activity for kids and adults alike. 

If you feel like sending it, you can mail it the next day or merely snap a photo and text it. 

I bet it will make their Thanksgiving. 

2. Make a Gratitude Jar

Don’t overthink it. Grab a mason jar, some slips of paper, and a few pens, and let the magic happen.

Throughout the day, encourage everyone to write down what they’re thankful for and drop it in the jar. 

You can then read them before dinner or save them to open next year. 

Either way, it is an awesome way to take a few minutes to really appreciate all the small and big things. 

You can even make it a holiday season gratitude tradition and leave the jar out through Christmas and New Year’s, and add to it whenever something small but wonderful happens. It is a great way to take one small moment to appreciate one small thing. 

RELATED: GRATITUDE PRACTICES TO START THIS THANKSGIVING AND HOLIDAY SEASON.

3. Share Family Stories and Memories 

One of the core themes of Thanksgiving is togetherness and connection. What better way to experience this than sharing family stories and memories? 

While making food, or gathered around the table, share all the cool memories from childhood or a funny past Thanksgiving story. Because there will always be something memorable. Maybe that time when Aunt Jenny dropped the turkey? 

Such a small activity can really knit the family together and is a great way for kids to hear stories they have never heard before. 

4. Volunteer and Give Back to Your Community 

Nothing realigns your heart like helping someone else. 

Whether it is delivering meals, serving at a local shelter, or putting together care packages for a family in need, volunteering on or around Thanksgiving brings the meaning of the season into sharp and beautiful focus. 

And if getting out of the house isn’t possible. You can still give from home. Donate online, write encouraging notes to essential workers, or put together simple gift baskets as a family and deliver them later. 

Gratitude in action is one of the best traditions you can start. It works for families, friends who enjoy friendsgiving together, or even coworkers.

5. Host a Friendsgiving Celebration

Friendsgiving isn’t just for people who, due to circumstances, can’t see their families. Friendsgiving is deeper than that. It’s for anyone who wants to celebrate with their chosen family. 

Whether you celebrate the weekend before, the night of, or even a simple brunch the next day, it doesn’t need to be super fancy to be memorable. 

In fact, don’t stress about doing everything if you are hosting. Potluck works best. Add some games and an awesome playlist, and you’ve the coziest and most laughter-filled Thanksgiving. 

Remember, don’t be afraid to make it your own. Have a party that really speaks to your friend group.

6. Go on a Nature Walk or Hike

Sometimes the best thing you can do on a busy holiday is to step outside and breathe for a minute.

Take a walk in the crisp air, notice the quiet beauty of late Fall, and relax.

It could be a short walk in a local trail, a stroll around the block, or even a few barefoot steps in your backyard. 

Trust me, you’ll feel more grounded and probably go back inside ready for another slice of pie.

7. Try a New Thanksgiving Recipe or Two

Yes, Thanksgiving has its stars of the show when it comes to food. We are not trying to step on that. 

Merely shake things up by adding something new to your table. And it doesn’t have to be completely new. Try an awesome twist on classic dishes like stuffing and mashed potatoes.

You could also make it a recipe swap where family or friends bring in a dish they have recently discovered that is kinda Thanksgiving-themed. 

Trying a new recipe is bound to make the day more fun and memorable, and the meal feel fresh and exciting. 

8. Bake Together as a Family 

Yes, it will be messy. Yes, someone will definitely spill the flour and make a huge mess. But honestly, that’s half the fun and the memories kids will remember years later.

Thanksgiving isn’t what it used to be. As kids, on Thanksgiving, my sister and I helped Mom in the kitchen. These days, it feels more performative. It’s about the perfect family photo, but not spending quality time together. 

Baking is a beautiful way to slow down and bond. Whether you’re making pie, pumpkin bread, or cookies shaped like turkeys, there’s no better way to spend Thanksgiving as a family. 

Little ones can decorate, older kids can measure, and grown-ups can sneak chocolate chips while doing the heavy lifting.

9. Play Thanksgiving-themed Games 

Games are a great way to shake off the post-meal sleepiness and spark some joy, good banter, and great memories. 

Go for some classics such as Thanksgiving Bingo, Pumpkin Toss, or Pin the Feather on the Turkey. 

But for a really authentic experience, albeit without all the bragging rights, try a gratitude game where the players get to share what they’re thankful for. It is a super thoughtful experience that actually appreciates Thanksgiving. 

If you’re feeling extra playful, you can try a backyard football game or a Thanksgiving-themed relay. 

Make it fun. Laughter might be your favorite memory of the day. 

10. Host a Turkey Day Scavenger Hunt 

This one is a hit for kids. And it can be surprisingly fun for adults. This is when you get to know just how competitive it can get, family or not. 

Don’t overthink it. Make it fun and simple. 

Create a simple list of things to find in the house or backyard, and let the games begin. You can get cheap items from the dollar store or use items around the house. 

You can add in a few goofy challenges that are Thanksgiving-themed to really make it fun. You’d die with laughter seeing your dad gobble like a turkey, or your terrible pie drawing all in the name of winning a simple challenge, and the bragging rights, of course. 

11. Host a Thanksgiving Talent Show 

Yes, this can be super cringe. But it doesn’t need to be. 

Make it more fun than mandatory. You know, each person can share a little talent. Singing, dancing, telling jokes, telling stories, magic tricks,  in fact, anything is fair game. 

Kids especially love this. And it is a great way for them to build confidence. And adults might just surprise you. 

This is a good way to get some good energy on Thanksgiving.

12. DIY Thanksgiving Decorations 

Don’t fuss. Pull out the craft bin and see what you can make with what you already have. Leaf garlands, handprint turkeys, jar centerpieces with dried herbs. Anything goes. 

Thanksgiving crafts are a great way to entertain kids while grown-ups cook, and should be a non-negotiable on your Thanksgiving activities.

13. Set Up a Thanksgiving Photo Booth

You don’t need to make it fancy. After all, it is mostly for the vibes and the memories. Pimp up a corner and get good lighting and a backdrop, and a few props. Simple props like paper pilgrim hats, turkey masks, and handwritten signs will work. 

If you make it fun, the little ones will enjoy it, and you’ll get great pictures to show them when they get older. 

Let everyone take snaps throughout the day. You’ll end up with some sweet and silly pictures that are truly frame-worthy. 

Please don’t obsess trying to get the “perfect” picture for IG. That’s not what Thanksgiving is about, and you’ll end up frustrating everyone. Let it be a fun Thanksgiving activity. 

14. Have a Thanksgiving Movie Marathon

Going for Thanksgiving-ish flicks is a great way to relax after the dishes are done and the second round of dessert is settling. 

Make it a whole thing. Pull out cozy blankets, make some popcorn, and queue up something. 

You can go for popular choices like Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, or family-oriented like Instant Family, or a Fall-Halloweenly vibe like the Addams Family Values. Doesn’t matter which one; whatever movie gives your family the warm fuzzies. 

And there’s no shame in falling asleep halfway through it. It just means you’re super cozy.

15. Watch the Thanksgiving Parade 

This is a classic for a reason. It has been a holiday tradition for nearly 100 years! Whether you’re a float fanatic or just here for the Broadway numbers, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade adds sparkle to your morning. 

Make it more fun with bingo cards or vote on your favorite float. 

If you are feeling up to it, plan a trip to New York City to watch it in person. 

16. Explore and Learn About Other Thanksgiving Traditions Around the World 

Thanksgiving isn’t the only harvest celebration out there. Take a few minutes to learn about how other cultures and communities give thanks- like Japan’s kinro Kansha no Hi ( Labor Thanksgiving Day) or Germany’s Erntedankfest.

It’s a simple and meaningful way to broaden your perspective and appreciate different cultures. It will make you more appreciative of society and the world.

And it can spark great conversation around the table.

17. Practice  Mindfulness and Reflection 

Before the day ends, make sure you take some time to sit down and reflect. Maybe light a candle. Breathe deeply and probably journal a few thoughts grounded in gratitude. 

You can even guide the group for a few minutes of reflection. 

Simple questions like “What was today’s best moment?” Or “What I am thankful for right now “ or “Who made this year easier?” can spark deep gratitude and really fill in that Thanksgiving energy. 

Final Thoughts on Meaningful Thanksgiving Activities 

Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be loud, perfect, or packed with activities to be meaningful.

A few intentional touches, like a letter, a walk, laughter, and good food, can make the day.

Whether you try just one or all 17 Thanksgiving activities, the goal isn’t to impress anyone. It’s to connect with your people, with the season, and most importantly, with yourself and what you are grateful for. 

P.S. If you are craving a slower, simpler holiday this year, don’t miss out on our latest blog, How to Have a Slow and Intentional Thanksgiving or Gratitude Practices to Start this Thanksgiving.

Happy Thanksgiving, my loves.