Thanksgiving is the perfect time to create memories and traditions with loved ones. But between the turkey and pumpkin pie, we sometimes miss out on those fun moments that bring us closer together. This year, why not sprinkle in a few activities designed to spark laughter, sharing, and gratitude?
Here are 7 easy ideas to bring even more joy to your Thanksgiving celebration:
1. The “Gratitude Garland”
Give everyone a small piece of colorful paper and ask them to write one thing they’re grateful for—a single word or a quick phrase. Once everyone shares, link the papers together to create a “Gratitude Garland.” Drape it across the table, hang it on a doorway, or display it along a staircase. It’s a beautiful, ongoing reminder of all the little (and big!) things your family appreciates—and something you can add to every year.
2. Family Recipe Story Swap
Thanksgiving is full of cherished recipes, so why not swap the stories behind them? Whether it’s Grandma’s secret stuffing or Dad’s famous mashed potatoes, sharing the history or meaning behind each dish makes every bite more special. Want to take it further? Start a family recipe book with everyone’s contributions to pass down for future Thanksgivings!
3. Thanksgiving Bingo
Create a bingo card with funny Thanksgiving moments:
• “Someone says they’re too full”
• “A spill happens”
• “A new family story is shared”
• “Seconds on dessert”
Hand out the cards and let everyone check off squares as the moments happen. The first to shout “Bingo!” wins a fun prize—like a pass to skip dish duty or an extra slice of pie!
4. Start the Best Conversations
If you want to create memories that last long after the last bite of pumpkin pie, this is your Thanksgiving must-have. Holiday Conversation Cards are the easiest way to spark meaningful moments with everyone at the table—from grandparents to kids.
Here’s how it works: Place a card at each place setting or pass the deck around during dessert. Each card is filled with thoughtful, fun prompts like:
• “What’s your favorite Thanksgiving memory?”
• “What are you most thankful for right now?”
• “Would you rather cook the turkey or do the dishes?”
In minutes, you’ll have the whole family sharing heartfelt stories, laughing at funny memories, and connecting in a way that feels genuine and joyful. These questions take the pressure off “making small talk” and create the kind of Thanksgiving magic that people talk about for years to come.
This is the kind of activity you’ll want to make a new tradition. Trust us—once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated Thanksgiving without them!
5. Tabletop Turkey Trivia
Test everyone’s Thanksgiving knowledge with a quick game of trivia. Write up a few questions about Thanksgiving history, family traditions, or even random fall facts (did you know wild turkeys can run up to 20 mph?). Divide into teams or play individually, and keep it lighthearted for all ages. It’s a fun way to mix laughter with learning something new!
6. Pass the Compliment Game
Here’s a heartwarming way to end the meal. Fill a basket with cards that say, “What I appreciate most about you is…” and pass it around the table. Each person picks a card, writes a compliment for someone, and shares it out loud. It’s a simple way to leave everyone feeling valued and loved—and isn’t that what Thanksgiving is all about?
7. Family Time Capsule
Create a family time capsule to capture this year’s gratitude. Pass out paper and ask everyone to write a note to their “future self” or describe what they’re most thankful for. Add small mementos like a photo or recipe card if anyone has one. Seal everything up and plan to open it next Thanksgiving—or even further down the line—for a meaningful walk down memory lane.
Thanksgiving is the ultimate time for creating new memories and cherishing old ones. By weaving in fun activities like these, you’ll keep everyone engaged, having fun, and sharing experiences that deepen your connection.
So this year, try something new, have a laugh, and make Thanksgiving even more magical with the people you love most.
