Thanksgiving is a beautiful time to create lasting memories with your kids and family.
Engaging in fun activities entertains kids and helps them appreciate the holiday's spirit of gratitude and togetherness.
From crafting decorations to preparing festive treats, there are endless opportunities to bond and celebrate this special occasion together.
You may search for meaningful ways to keep your kids engaged as the holiday approaches.
This blog post offers 35 fun Thanksgiving activities kids and the whole family can enjoy.
You'll discover ideas catering to different age groups and interests, ensuring everyone can participate and have fun.
Let this Thanksgiving be more than just a meal. Transform it into a memorable experience filled with laughter and creativity.
Get ready to explore activities that will enrich your holiday and strengthen family connections.
Crafts and Creativity
Engaging in Thanksgiving-themed crafts with kids can enhance their excitement for the holiday. These activities promote creativity while also allowing for family bonding.
Consider these fun and easy projects that make perfect decorations or keepsakes.
1. Thanksgiving-Themed Coloring Pages
Thanksgiving-themed coloring pages are an excellent way for children to express their creativity.
You can find various printable pages online featuring turkeys, pumpkins, and harvest scenes.
Set up a coloring station with crayons, markers, and colored pencils.
Encourage kids to experiment with different colors and techniques.
Once completed, display their artwork around the house or turn them into festive greeting cards to share with family and friends.
2. DIY Turkey Hats
Creating DIY turkey hats is a fun and interactive craft. You need brown construction paper, feathers, glue, and scissors.
Start by cutting a strip of paper for the headband. Then, cut out a turkey's face, complete with eyes and a beak. Add colorful feathers to the back to make it vibrant.
This project encourages creativity and provides a fun accessory for your Thanksgiving celebration.
3. Handprint Turkey Keepsakes
Handprint turkey keepsakes are a personal and memorable craft project. All you need is cardstock, paint, and a few simple supplies.
Have your child dip their hand in brown paint and press it onto the cardstock. Once it dries, they can add details like feathers and a beak, turning their handprint into a turkey.
These keepsakes make wonderful gifts for family members or can be hung as festive decorations.
4. Nature Suncatchers
Nature suncatchers combine creativity with outdoor exploration.
Gather fallen leaves, flowers, and other natural items with your kids. Use clear contact paper or wax paper as the base.
Arrange the collected items on one side, then cover them with another layer of contact paper to seal.
Hang these suncatchers in a window to let the light shine through, creating beautiful patterns.
5. Leaf Print Placemats
Leaf print placemats are a perfect blend of nature and art.
Collect various leaves from your yard or local park. Paint one side of the leaves with washable paint, then press them onto a piece of sturdy paper or cardstock.
Once dried, you can laminate the printed designs to create durable, festive placemats for your Thanksgiving table.
6. Turkey Centerpiece
A turkey centerpiece can be a delightful addition to your holiday table. Begin by using a round base, like a pie plate, then decorate it with artificial leaves, pumpkins, and gourds.
Create a turkey using craft materials, like tissue paper or foam. Place the turkey at the center, surrounded by the decorative elements.
This project allows for creativity while providing a focal point that adds charm to your Thanksgiving meal.
Outdoor Fun
Thanksgiving is a great time to get outside and enjoy activities with the kids. Engaging in outdoor fun excites the holiday while promoting physical activity and family bonding.
7. Watching the Thanksgiving Parade
Gather your family to watch the Thanksgiving parade together. You can find local parades or tune in to televised events.
Set up a cozy outdoor space with blankets and snacks, making everyone comfortable.
Encourage your kids to predict which floats will appear next or discuss their favorite balloons.
This interactive approach keeps everyone engaged. You can even make it educational by discussing the history and significance of Thanksgiving celebrations.
8. Turkey Tag
Combine classic tag with a Thanksgiving twist in Turkey Tag.
In Turkey Tag, one person is designated as the “turkey,” while the others are “hunters.”
You can use scarves or fabric to create “turkey” costumes for added fun.
Set boundaries for the play area and let the game begin.
This activity encourages running, dodging, and strategy. Kids will love the thrill of the chase, and it’s a great way to burn off some energy.
9. Pumpkin Roll Relay
This fun relay requires minimal setup. Gather some small pumpkins and create two teams.
Position a start and finish line, then have each team line up. Each participant rolls a pumpkin using their hands, feet, or an object like a broom.
The next team member can only go once the pumpkin crosses the line. This activity not only enhances coordination, but also promotes teamwork and friendly competition.
10. Leaf Pile Adventure
Fall leaves provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor fun.
Start by raking leaves into a large pile. Once the pile is ready, let your kids jump in and have fun.
You can structure it by setting challenges, such as who can make the biggest splash or build the tallest leaf tower.
This activity fosters creativity and provides a sensory experience with the different textures and aromas of the leaves.
11. Thanksgiving-Themed Scavenger Hunt
Organize a scavenger hunt with Thanksgiving-themed items around your yard or a local park.
Create a list with acorns, pine cones, or specific colored leaves.
To make it exciting, hide small surprises, such as mini-pumpkins or turkey decorations. Provide clues or riddles for an additional challenge.
This engages critical thinking and encourages nature exploration, making it both educational and enjoyable.
12. Family Football
Gather your family for an informal football game in the backyard or at a nearby park.
You can set up teams based on age or skill level, ensuring everyone participates.
Use a soft football to minimize the risk of injuries.
Establish simple rules to keep the game engaging for younger kids while allowing for some competitive spirit among older players.
This activity promotes teamwork while encouraging exercise in a fun and friendly atmosphere.
Musical Entertainment
Engaging kids with music during Thanksgiving can create joyful memories. Whether singing songs, hosting a karaoke night, or crafting homemade instruments, these musical activities can enhance the festive atmosphere.
13. Thanksgiving Songs
Thanksgiving songs are a delightful way to engage your family. You can introduce classics like “Over the River and Through the Woods” or “Turkey in the Straw.”
These songs feature fun, catchy lyrics that kids can sing along to.
Create a playlist of festive tunes to play in the background during dinner or while preparing food. Include contemporary favorites along with traditional songs to cater to all ages.
You can encourage participation by teaching the words and actions that accompany the songs, making it interactive.
Consider organizing a mini sing-along where everyone can join in. This fosters a sense of community and celebration.
14. Family Karaoke
Having a family karaoke session can transform your Thanksgiving gathering.
Set up a karaoke machine, or use apps on your smart device to create a fun singing competition. You can choose Thanksgiving-themed songs, popular hits, or classic tunes everyone knows.
Consider pairing the activity with a scoring system for an added competitive edge. Let each family member select their favorite song to perform.
Encourage kids to blend creativity, such as incorporating silly dance moves or unique costumes.
This can help children build confidence and enjoy the spotlight, creating lasting memories full of laughter.
15. Homemade Musical Instruments
Creating homemade musical instruments can be an entertaining project for kids.
You can craft simple instruments using everyday items, like shakers made from plastic bottles filled with rice or beans. You can also try making drums using pots or pans and wooden spoons.
For an added twist, explore how to create different sounds by varying the hitting methods.
This activity allows kids to explore music while enhancing their fine motor skills.
After crafting, hold a mini-parade or performance showcasing the homemade instruments. This encourages collaboration and creativity, making it a memorable experience for the entire family.
Educational Games and Activities
Engaging children in educational games and activities during Thanksgiving can enhance their understanding of the holiday and its significance. These activities combine learning with fun, making them ideal for family gatherings.
16. Thanksgiving History Quiz
Creating a Thanksgiving history quiz can be an enjoyable way to teach kids about the holiday's origins.
Prepare questions covering topics such as the pilgrims, Native Americans, and the first Thanksgiving feast.
Sample Questions:
- Who were the pilgrims?
- What year was the first Thanksgiving celebrated?
- Which Native American tribe helped the pilgrims?
You can organize this quiz in teams or as individuals.
Offering small prizes, like Thanksgiving-themed stickers, can motivate participation.
This activity encourages curiosity about history and fosters teamwork.
17. Board Games With a Thanksgiving Twist
Board games can be adapted to incorporate Thanksgiving themes, providing both entertainment and learning.
Consider games like “Thanksgiving Bingo” or “Turkey Trivia” that blend fun with educational content.
Thanksgiving Bingo involves creating cards featuring Thanksgiving-related items such as turkey, corn, and pumpkins.
Turkey Trivia can include questions about Thanksgiving facts, foods, and traditions.
These games not only reinforce knowledge, but also promote healthy competition and family bonding.
18. Puzzle Time
Puzzles are excellent for developing problem-solving skills while celebrating Thanksgiving. You can find Thanksgiving-themed jigsaw puzzles featuring scenes of harvest or the pilgrims.
Consider organizing a puzzle-building session. Encourage your kids to work together to complete a giant puzzle or time them while completing smaller ones.
This activity enhances cognitive skills and promotes patience. It also allows for discussions about Thanksgiving traditions, making it educational and enjoyable.
Cooking and Baking Together
Engaging in cooking and baking activities during Thanksgiving can be a delightful way to bond with kids. These activities not only teach valuable skills but also create lasting memories. Here's how to involve your children in the kitchen for festive fun.
19. Making Pumpkin Waffles for Thanksgiving Breakfast
Start your Thanksgiving morning with homemade pumpkin waffles.
Gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Maple syrup for serving
Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Combine both until just blended.
Preheat your waffle maker and spoon in the batter.
Cook until golden brown, then serve with maple syrup and whipped cream.
Kids will love pouring the syrup and decorating their waffles.
20. Baking Pumpkin Pies
Baking pumpkin pies is a true Thanksgiving tradition. You’ll need:
- One prepared pie crust
- One can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ginger
- 1/4 tsp cloves
- Three eggs
- 1 cup evaporated milk
Blend the pumpkin, sugar, spices, and salt in a large bowl. Stir in the eggs and evaporated milk until smooth.
Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce to 350°F and bake for another 40–50 minutes.
Let it cool before slicing. Your kids can help with measuring and stirring.
21. Making Edible Cornucopias
Creating edible cornucopias is a fun and creative edible craft. You'll need:
- Ice cream cones
- Assorted candies (e.g., gummies, chocolate, nuts)
- Royal icing for decoration (optional)
Start by filling ice cream cones with a variety of candies. This can include fruit chews for vegetables and chocolates for treats.
Use royal icing to secure any decorations or embellishments.
Kids can personalize their cornucopias by choosing their favorite candies.
This activity combines creativity with a tasty treat they can enjoy later.
22. Making Hot Chocolate
Warm up with a homemade hot chocolate perfect for chilly Thanksgiving evenings. For this simple recipe, gather:
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- Marshmallows for garnish
Bring water to a boil in a small saucepan and add cocoa powder and sugar. Stir well until combined.
Gradually add the milk while heating gently, whisking to maintain a smooth texture.
Once warmed through, pour into mugs and top with marshmallows. Kids can help mix and pour, making this a cozy family activity.
23. Decorating Thanksgiving Cookies
Decorating cookies is a playful way to express creativity. You'll need:
- Sugar cookie dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Royal icing in various colors
- Sprinkles, edible glitter, or chocolate chips
Bake the cookies according to instructions and let them cool completely.
Set up a decorating station with icing and toppings.
Kids can pipe icing into different shapes and sprinkle with their favorite toppings.
Encourage them to create Thanksgiving themes, such as turkeys or pumpkins. This fun activity allows for artistic expression and results in the sharing of delicious treats.
Gratitude Activities
Engaging in gratitude activities with children fosters appreciation and builds a positive mindset. These activities encourage kids to express their thoughts and feelings while cultivating a sense of thankfulness.
24. Sharing Thankful Thoughts
Set aside time for a family discussion where everyone shares things they are thankful for.
You can do this around the dinner table or during a cozy evening at home. Encourage kids to articulate specific reasons they're grateful.
For instance, instead of saying, “I’m thankful for my toys,” they might say, “I’m thankful for my bike because it helps me play outside with friends.”
This approach not only enhances communication skills but also deepens the emotional connection within the family.
Use this time to reflect on the goodness in your lives, which can lead to open conversations about values and appreciation.
25. Gratitude Tree
Create a gratitude tree to visualize what your family is thankful for.
Start by drawing a large tree trunk and branches on a poster board. Then, provide colorful paper leaves on which each family member can write something they appreciate.
Over time, as you add more leaves, the tree will transform into a vibrant symbol of gratitude.
Place the tree in a common area to remind everyone of their blessings.
This activity nurtures a creative spirit while reinforcing positive feelings. You can even take photos of the tree throughout the season to capture its growth.
26. Thank You Cards
Making thank you cards is a wonderful way for kids to express gratitude.
Gather supplies such as colored paper, markers, and stickers.
Encourage children to design and write thank-you notes to people who have positively impacted their lives, such as teachers, friends, or family members.
Guide them to personalize each card with specific references, like thanking a teacher for a fun lesson.
These cards can be mailed or delivered personally.
This activity teaches the importance of kindness and appreciation, highlighting the value of acknowledging others' contributions to their lives.
27. Sharing Circle
A sharing circle can be a structured way for kids to express gratitude.
Arrange a circle with family members sitting together, and let each person take turns sharing something they are thankful for.
To make it engaging, introduce a “talking stick.” The person holding it can speak while the others listen quietly.
This practice builds respect and patience, both of which are essential parts of communication.
You can incorporate themes, such as sharing something they’re thankful for in nature or from the past week.
This activity promotes active listening and fosters community spirit while making gratitude a regular part of family practice.
Volunteering and Charity
Volunteering and charity activities during Thanksgiving foster a sense of community in children.
These experiences not only give back but also teach valuable lessons about gratitude and empathy. Here are some meaningful ways for you and your kids to participate.
28. Community Service
Consider volunteering as a family at local shelters or community centers.
Many organizations seek extra hands during Thanksgiving for meal preparation, serving, or cleanup.
Research local opportunities through websites like VolunteerMatch or your community’s social media pages.
Involving your children in these activities allows them to witness kindness in action.
Reinforce the significance of helping those in need by discussing the impact of your work afterward.
Aim for a commitment of a few hours to provide a meaningful contribution.
Your participation can inspire other families in your community to join in the spirit of service.
29. Creating Blessing Bags
Creating blessing bags is a hands-on way for your family to spread warmth during Thanksgiving.
Gather essential items like toiletries, snacks, socks, or gloves.
Use reusable bags for packaging, allowing children to get creative with decorations. It's an excellent opportunity for them to express themselves artistically.
Once the bags are assembled, distribute them to those in need. You can give them to local shelters, hospitals, or people you encounter in your community.
Involving your children in this process teaches them about resourcefulness and compassion.
30. Donating to a Food Bank
Food banks often experience a surge in demand around Thanksgiving.
You can help by organizing a food drive within your family or neighborhood.
Begin by identifying a local food bank to support. Then, create a list of non-perishable items to collect, such as canned goods, pasta, and rice.
Encourage your kids to brainstorm creative ways to gather donations, like setting up a collection box or hosting a small event.
When delivering the items, involve your children in the process. Discuss the importance of food security and how contributions make a difference. This hands-on approach teaches them generosity and social responsibility.
Reflecting on Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving offers a unique opportunity to reflect on various aspects of family, culture, and personal experiences. This time can deepen connections with loved ones and enrich your understanding of what the holiday represents.
31. Family History and Stories
Engaging with family history during Thanksgiving can enrich you and your kids.
Start by sharing stories about your ancestors and their Thanksgiving traditions. Consider creating a family tree to visualize your lineage.
Have each family member share their favorite Thanksgiving memory. This could be a humorous anecdote or a meaningful lesson learned.
Encourage your children to ask questions to foster curiosity and engagement.
Capturing these stories in a family scrapbook can also preserve memories for future generations.
32. Cultural Significance
Thanksgiving isn’t just a moment to gather together; it’s also steeped in cultural significance.
Explore the origins of the holiday and its evolution over time with your family. Discuss the meaning behind traditional foods, such as turkey and cranberry sauce, and how they connect to various cultures.
Highlight the importance of gratitude and community, as Thanksgiving fosters a sense of belonging.
Use activities like cooking traditional recipes together to reinforce cultural ties.
Encourage conversations about other cultural celebrations related to gratitude to broaden perspectives.
33. Personal Reflections
Encourage personal reflections during Thanksgiving to help you and your family articulate feelings and gratitude.
Consider starting a tradition of sharing what you’re thankful for at the dinner table. This fosters a sense of appreciation among family members.
You might also engage in a journaling activity where each person writes down their thoughts on gratitude throughout November.
Sharing these reflections can strengthen bonds and provide insight into each family member’s experiences and feelings.
Relaxation and Downtime
Thanksgiving offers a wonderful opportunity for relaxation and bonding with kids. Taking time for downtime activities helps recharge energy and encourages family connection.
34. Thanksgiving Movie Night
Set aside an evening for a cozy Thanksgiving movie night.
Gather your favorite blankets and pillows, and create a comfortable viewing space in the living room.
Choose movies centered around Thanksgiving themes or family gatherings. Some popular options include A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, Free Birds, and Planes, Trains and Automobiles.
Prepare some festive snacks like popcorn sprinkled with cinnamon or pumpkin pie bites.
Encourage the kids to share their favorite movie moments, sparking discussions and laughter.
This simple tradition can become a cherished part of your Thanksgiving celebrations.
35. Bedtime Stories
Incorporate a bedtime storytime with a Thanksgiving twist.
Select books emphasizing gratitude, family, and friendship to align with the holiday spirit.
Books like Thank You, Thanksgiving by David Milgrim, and The Very First Thanksgiving by Jean Craighead George are excellent choices.
Read together while snuggling up in bed, allowing the calming ambiance to promote relaxation before sleep. Invite your kids to pick their favorite stories, making the experience interactive.
You could even include a short discussion on what they are thankful for this year, fostering reflection and connection in a tranquil setting.
Final Thoughts About Thanksgiving Activities for Kids
Thanksgiving is a wonderful opportunity for you and your children to bond through various activities.
Engaging in fun projects, games, and crafts can create lasting memories.
Remember, the goal is to make the holiday enjoyable for your kids while instilling important values.
These activities foster creativity and imagination.
Plan ahead, gather supplies, and let your kids lead some activities. This will empower them and increase their excitement.
The focus should be on participation, laughter, and togetherness.
Enjoy these moments, as they can make your Thanksgiving celebration truly special.
Love this post? Check out more articles related to Thanksgiving and gratitude:
- 101 Things to Be Grateful for in Your Life
- 55 Funny Thanksgiving Memes for Turkey Day
- 55 Bible Verses About Gratitude to Be More Thankful in Life
- 19 Printable Gratitude Coloring Pages to Show Thankfulness
- Benefits of Gratitude: 31 Powerful Reasons to Be More Grateful
