8 Special Activities You Can Do With Your Kids To Celebrate Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and delicious food! But it can also be a fantastic opportunity to create special memories with your kids. This year, why not step outside the traditional turkey dinner routine and engage in some fun activities that celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving? 

From crafting to cooking, these activities will not only keep the kids entertained but also help you bond as a family. It’s time to explore eight exciting ideas that will make this Thanksgiving special.

1. Create a Thanksgiving Gratitude Tree

Creating a Thanksgiving Gratitude Tree is one of the best ways to get your kids thinking about gratitude. Gather some sturdy branches and place them in a pot or a vase filled with stones to keep them steady. 

Next, grab colorful paper and scissors to cut out leaf shapes. Have each family member write something they’re thankful for on a leaf, then hang them on the branches. 

This activity encourages kids to reflect on their blessings and makes a beautiful centerpiece that everyone can enjoy throughout the holiday season. It also opens up wonderful discussions about gratitude and the things that matter most to your family.

2. DIY Thanksgiving Decorations

Turn your home into a festive haven by getting crafty with DIY Thanksgiving decorations! Gather supplies like construction paper, paint, and natural materials like leaves or pinecones.

Let your kids’ creativity flow as they create unique decorations, from colorful turkey centerpieces to charming handprint wreaths. This activity facilitates creative expression while helping kids feel invested in the holiday. Every time they see their handiwork, they’ll remember the fun they had making it together.

3. Family Cooking or Baking Day

There’s no better way to bond with your kids than by spending time in the kitchen together. Designate a day before Thanksgiving to cook or bake together as a family. Involve your kids in making traditional dishes, like pumpkin pie or mashed potatoes, or try fun new recipes. 

Cooking together is a great way to develop kitchen skills while creating delicious memories you’ll cherish for years to come. Who knows, you might even create a new family recipe that gets passed down through generations!

4. Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt

Add some excitement to your Thanksgiving festivities with a Thanksgiving-themed scavenger hunt! Create a list of items related to the holiday — think mini pumpkins, Thanksgiving-themed kitchen gadgets, or even decorative items around the house. Hide these items around your home or yard, and let the kids team up to find them all. 

This activity encourages teamwork, gets them moving, and adds a bit of competitive fun to the day. Plus, it’s a great way to keep them engaged and entertained while you prepare for the big feast.

5. Host a Thanksgiving Movie Marathon

After a day filled with activities, there’s nothing like winding down with a cozy Thanksgiving movie marathon. Pick a selection of family-friendly films that celebrate the holiday spirit. Set up a comfy viewing area with blankets, pillows, and inflatable sleepover beds.

You can create a “snack bar” with popcorn, hot cocoa, and Thanksgiving-themed treats to make it feel like a special event. Watching movies together allows you to relax, laugh, and enjoy quality time while embracing the cozy vibes of the holiday.

6. Volunteer Together

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude and giving back, making it a great time to involve your kids in some volunteer work. Find a local food bank or charity organization where you can spend a few hours helping out. 

This could mean sorting food items, serving meals, or participating in a community event. Volunteering teaches kids the importance of compassion and generosity and creates a sense of fulfillment and connection to the community. It can also be a wonderful way to spark discussions about gratitude and how we can help others during the holiday season.

7. Thanksgiving Storytime

Gather your kids and settle in for a delightful Thanksgiving storytime. Choose a cozy spot in your home, whether it’s a reading nook or a blanket fort, and dive into some Thanksgiving-themed books. 

You can read classic stories or even share family tales about past Thanksgivings. Encourage your kids to share their thoughts about the stories, which can lead to wonderful conversations about family traditions and what Thanksgiving means to them.

8. Create a Thanksgiving Photo Booth

Set up a fun Thanksgiving photo booth to capture the spirit of the holiday! Use colorful props, decorations, and a festive backdrop to create a playful environment for family photos.

Get your kids involved in making DIY props like turkey hats, signs, or funny glasses. Let them get creative with poses and expressions — silly faces are encouraged! This activity creates lasting memories and provides great keepsakes for years to come.

Let the Festivities Begin

Thanksgiving is more than just a day for feasting; it’s an opportunity to create cherished memories with your kids. By incorporating these special activities into your holiday plans, you can foster gratitude, creativity, and togetherness in a fun way. 

From cooking together, volunteering, or capturing silly photo booth moments, each activity adds a unique touch to your Thanksgiving celebration. Here’s to a day filled with love, laughter, and lasting family traditions!