Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey and pumpkin pie; it’s a day filled with laughter, gratitude, and family. After the meal, when everyone’s gathered and in good spirits, there’s no better way to keep the fun going than with some entertaining games. Thanksgiving games can add extra joy to the day, bringing everyone together, from the youngest kids to the oldest adults.
Whether you’re looking for light-hearted competition, fun trivia, or activities to burn off that second helping of mashed potatoes, there are plenty of options to make your Thanksgiving memorable. Here’s a list of 25 Thanksgiving games for family that will have everyone laughing, bonding, and creating memories that last long after the leftovers are gone.
1. Thanksgiving Bingo
Thanksgiving Bingo is a game everyone can enjoy, from kids to grandparents. Create Bingo cards with Thanksgiving-themed images or words, like “turkey,” “gravy,” or “stuffing.” As family members call out these items, players can mark them off their cards.
This game is easy to set up and can be a great icebreaker for larger gatherings. Plus, with small prizes for the winners, Thanksgiving Bingo adds a layer of excitement that everyone will love.
2. Turkey Bowling
Turkey Bowling is a twist on classic bowling that works well indoors or outdoors. Use empty soda bottles as pins and a small pumpkin as the bowling ball. Arrange the bottles in a triangle, and let each family member take turns knocking them down.
It’s a simple but hilarious game that’s perfect for all ages. With a small pumpkin’s unpredictable rolling, Turkey Bowling is sure to bring plenty of laughs as everyone tries their best to hit a “strike.”
3. Thanksgiving Charades
Charades never goes out of style, and a Thanksgiving-themed version adds festive fun. Write down Thanksgiving-related phrases like “stuffing the turkey” or “falling asleep after dinner.” Divide into teams and take turns acting out the phrases without speaking.
Thanksgiving Charades gets everyone involved and can turn into a laugh riot as people try to act out turkey-related activities. It’s a lighthearted way to bring everyone together and works well for groups of any size.
4. Family Gratitude Circle
Set a peaceful tone with a Family Gratitude Circle, where each person shares something they’re thankful for. This game doesn’t require any materials and is a perfect way to reflect on the day’s meaning.
While not a “game” in the traditional sense, the Gratitude Circle helps everyone connect emotionally. It’s an ideal choice for families who want to bond deeply before diving into other games.
5. Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt
A Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt is a fantastic way to get everyone moving. Create a list of Thanksgiving-themed items or clues that lead family members to various locations in or around the house. Hide small items like mini pumpkins, leaves, or turkey-shaped trinkets.
This game is particularly great for kids but can be enjoyed by adults as well. It adds excitement and adventure to the day, keeping everyone engaged in a fun challenge.
6. Turkey Tag
Turkey Tag is an active game perfect for families with lots of energy to burn. Give each person a small cloth “feather” to tuck into their pocket or waistband. The goal is to collect as many feathers as possible from other players without losing your own.
This game is a high-energy, kid-friendly option that’s ideal for larger family gatherings. Turkey Tag will get everyone moving and laughing, making it a hit for both kids and adults.
7. Two Truths and a Turkey
A Thanksgiving twist on the classic “Two Truths and a Lie,” this game is easy to play around the dinner table. Each person says two things that are true and one thing that’s made up about Thanksgiving. The rest of the family has to guess which statement is the “turkey” (the lie).
Two Truths and a Turkey can reveal some surprising facts and funny fictions. It’s a light-hearted, conversation-starter game that helps everyone learn something new about each other.
8. Pumpkin Bocce Ball
If you’re lucky enough to have a large outdoor space, try Pumpkin Bocce Ball. Use small pumpkins instead of bocce balls and see who can get closest to a designated spot or target pumpkin.
This game is great for a bit of friendly outdoor competition and works well with both adults and kids. With the added challenge of using pumpkins instead of bocce balls, it’s sure to lead to plenty of laughs.
9. Thanksgiving Pictionary
For families that enjoy drawing, Thanksgiving Pictionary is a creative and fun choice. Prepare a list of Thanksgiving-themed words, like “pilgrim,” “turkey,” or “cornucopia,” and have people draw them for their team to guess.
Thanksgiving Pictionary is easy to set up and encourages everyone to showcase their artistic side (or lack thereof!). It’s a game that guarantees lots of laughter as players try to guess some wild interpretations of common Thanksgiving words.
10. Pass the Pumpkin
Pass the Pumpkin is a fun, musical game similar to hot potato. Play a Thanksgiving song, and have everyone pass around a small pumpkin. When the music stops, the person holding the pumpkin is out. Continue until there’s one person left standing.
This game is easy for all ages to play and doesn’t require much preparation. It’s a great way to keep the group moving and adds an element of suspense with the stopping and starting of the music.
11. Thanksgiving Trivia
Prepare a list of trivia questions about Thanksgiving history, fun facts, or even family-specific questions. Divide into teams and let everyone guess the answers. Questions could include topics like “What year was the first Thanksgiving?” or “How many turkeys are eaten on Thanksgiving Day in the U.S.?”
Thanksgiving Trivia is a fantastic way to add some educational fun to the gathering. It works well with both kids and adults, giving everyone a chance to learn something new and feel involved.
12. Turkey Feather Relay Race
This game is perfect for younger kids and adults who want to join in the fun. Use a small feather, and have players race to blow it across a table or along a floor without touching it.
Turkey Feather Relay Race is a simple yet challenging game that’s easy to set up. It brings out the competitive spirit and offers plenty of laughs as family members struggle to keep their feathers on track.
13. Thankful Thoughts Jar
Create a Thankful Thoughts Jar where each person writes down something they’re thankful for. Read them aloud and see if people can guess who wrote each note.
This game is a wonderful way to add a touch of warmth and reflection to Thanksgiving. It’s ideal for bringing the family together in gratitude and provides a keepsake that can be revisited year after year.
14. Thanksgiving Mad Libs
Thanksgiving Mad Libs are a fun way to add some humor to the day. Create or download Thanksgiving-themed Mad Libs that the whole family can fill out together. The sillier the results, the better!
This game is a favorite for all ages, as it brings out everyone’s creativity and humor. Thanksgiving Mad Libs can be enjoyed throughout the day, filling any downtime with laughter.
15. Pie Eating Contest
A pie-eating contest is a festive game that involves delicious treats. Use mini pies so everyone can participate, and see who can finish their pie the fastest.
This game is messy, fun, and sure to be memorable. It’s great for anyone who’s feeling competitive and doesn’t mind getting a little pie on their face.
16. Family Memory Lane
Ask everyone to bring a photo or item from a memorable family Thanksgiving. Each person can share their memory, explaining why it’s special to them.
Family Memory Lane adds a nostalgic and heartwarming touch to the day. It’s a chance for family members to connect over shared memories and reminisce about past Thanksgivings.
17. Thanksgiving Word Scramble
Create a list of Thanksgiving-related words and scramble the letters. Players then try to unscramble as many words as they can in a set time.
This game is a quick, fun mental challenge that can be enjoyed by all ages. It’s easy to set up and offers a nice mix of competition and entertainment.
18. Leaf Pile Diving (Outdoor Game)
If you live in an area with lots of fall foliage, let the kids (or adults!) enjoy a leaf pile diving game. Create a big pile of leaves and let each person take turns diving in or hunting for hidden items within the pile.
This game adds a bit of outdoor fun and encourages everyone to embrace the season. Plus, it’s a favorite among kids who love the feel of crunching leaves.
19. Thanksgiving Table Topics
Set out a jar of Thanksgiving-themed questions for everyone to draw from. Questions can range from “What’s your favorite Thanksgiving memory?” to “If you were a Thanksgiving dish, what would you be?”
Thanksgiving Table Topics spark conversations and encourage everyone to share their thoughts and experiences. It’s a low-key way to connect and learn more about each other.
20. Pumpkin Tic-Tac-Toe
Create a life-sized Tic-Tac-Toe board with small pumpkins or other fall items as the X’s and O’s. Divide into teams and play classic Tic-Tac-Toe in a festive way.
Pumpkin Tic-Tac-Toe is easy to set up, fun to play, and brings a touch of seasonal cheer to a simple game.
21. Turkey Trot Race
For families with a lot of energy, consider a Turkey Trot Race. Create a short obstacle course in your yard and let everyone take turns running or walking through it. Make it extra fun by adding “turkey” hats or costumes.
This game adds a bit of physical activity and friendly competition to the day. It’s a great choice for family members looking to burn off a bit of Thanksgiving dinner.
22. Family Talent Show
Give each family member a chance to showcase a hidden talent, whether it’s singing, dancing, or telling jokes. Set up a small “stage” area and let each person have their moment.
The Family Talent Show lets everyone shine and encourages family members to celebrate each other’s unique skills. It’s a joyful and entertaining way to end the evening.
23. Roll a Turkey Dice Game
For a quick and easy game, try Roll a Turkey. Each family member rolls a die and adds parts to their “turkey” drawing, like feathers, a beak, or wings. The first person to complete their turkey wins.
Roll a Turkey is a simple yet creative game that keeps everyone engaged. It’s great for both kids and adults, allowing for some artistic fun with a twist of competition.
24. Thanksgiving Pin the Feather on the Turkey
A Thanksgiving twist on Pin the Tail on the Donkey, this game involves trying to “pin” paper feathers on a large paper turkey while blindfolded.
It’s an easy-to-set-up game that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. Thanksgiving Pin the Feather brings laughter and light-hearted fun to the day.
25. Thanksgiving Photo Booth
Set up a DIY photo booth with Thanksgiving props like pilgrim hats, turkey feathers, and funny signs. Challenge each family member to come up with a creative pose.
The Thanksgiving Photo Booth offers everyone a chance to capture the memories and share a laugh. It’s a lovely way to end the night with some silly, memorable photos that everyone can cherish.
Conclusion
With these 25 Thanksgiving games for family, you’ll have everything you need to make Thanksgiving truly special. From laughter-filled Turkey Tag to reflective Family Memory Lane, these games bring something for everyone. Thanksgiving is about celebrating with loved ones, and these games add an extra layer of joy and connection to the day.
Whether you’re looking to keep the kids entertained, enjoy some friendly competition, or simply share heartfelt moments, these games ensure your Thanksgiving will be remembered long after the last slice of pie is eaten. So gather your family, prepare your games, and let the festivities begin—Thanksgiving has never been more fun!
