Thanksgiving is more than just a meal—it’s a time to connect, give thanks, and create lasting memories with family. For kids, it’s an exciting holiday filled with cozy traditions, laughter, and fun activities. But keeping little ones engaged throughout the day can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve gathered 23 kid-friendly Thanksgiving activities that add creativity, joy, and even a little learning to the day.
Whether you’re looking for easy crafts, active games, or hands-on activities, this guide has something for every child. These ideas will keep kids entertained, help them express gratitude, and even learn a bit about Thanksgiving traditions. Let’s dive into some fantastic Thanksgiving activities that kids are sure to enjoy and remember!
1. Create a Thankful Tree
Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, and making a thankful tree is a fun way for kids to reflect on what they’re thankful for. Gather a small tree branch or make one from brown construction paper, then cut out leaves in various colors for each child.
Encourage kids to write something they’re thankful for on each leaf before attaching them to the branches. It’s a creative craft that also sparks meaningful conversations about gratitude, which is what Thanksgiving is all about. Plus, the tree can double as a festive decoration for the day!
2. DIY Turkey Hats
Turkey hats are a fun craft activity that also makes for a cute Thanksgiving outfit. Using construction paper, cut out shapes for feathers, eyes, and a beak, then help kids glue them onto a headband or paper hat.
Kids can customize their hats with googly eyes and colorful feathers, making each one unique. It’s a simple craft that they can wear proudly around the house or even at the Thanksgiving dinner table for some extra festive flair.
3. Pinecone Turkeys
For a natural and creative craft, kids can make their very own pinecone turkeys. Start by collecting pinecones from outside, then use colored paper or craft feathers to create the turkey’s tail.
Add googly eyes and a small paper beak to bring the turkeys to life, giving kids a fun keepsake. These pinecone turkeys can be used as table decorations, adding a playful touch to your Thanksgiving setup.
4. Turkey Tag
Turkey Tag is a high-energy game that’s perfect for letting kids burn off some pre-dinner excitement. Attach a few paper “feathers” to each child’s back, setting the goal to grab each other’s feathers without losing their own.
This game keeps kids active and laughing while they chase each other around. It’s a great way to get them moving and provides lots of laughter and fun in between Thanksgiving activities.
5. Thanksgiving Bingo
Thanksgiving Bingo is a classic game that kids love, and it’s easy to customize with a Thanksgiving theme. Create or print out bingo cards with pictures of turkeys, pumpkins, and pies, then gather kids to play.
As you call out each item, kids mark it on their cards, aiming to get a “Bingo!” It’s a quiet, relaxing game that works well to keep them entertained while adults are preparing the Thanksgiving feast.
6. Pin the Tail on the Turkey
A Thanksgiving twist on the classic game, “Pin the Tail on the Turkey” is fun for all ages. Draw a large turkey on a poster board and leave off the tail, then blindfold each child, spin them around, and let them try to “pin” it on.
Kids will enjoy the challenge and the funny results as they attempt to place the tail in the right spot. This simple game brings lots of laughs and is a festive way to add some lighthearted fun to the day.
7. Make Thanksgiving Cookies
Kids love getting hands-on in the kitchen, and decorating Thanksgiving cookies is a fun way to get them involved. Set up a cookie station with turkey-shaped cookies, icing, and sprinkles, letting kids decorate their cookies however they like.
They can enjoy their tasty creations afterward or share them with family members. It’s a fun, tasty way to bring everyone together and add a sweet touch to Thanksgiving.
8. DIY Mini Pumpkin Pies
Mini pumpkin pies are a delicious treat that kids can make themselves. Provide mini pie crusts and canned pumpkin filling, then let kids mix, pour, and decorate their pies with a little guidance.
Kids enjoy the pride of preparing their own pies and can look forward to eating them after the Thanksgiving meal. It’s a fun way to teach them about baking and share a traditional Thanksgiving dessert.
9. Create a Fruit and Veggie Turkey Platter
A fruit and veggie turkey platter is a creative way to encourage healthy snacking. Use a round fruit like an apple for the turkey’s body, then arrange colorful slices of fruits and veggies as feathers.
Kids will enjoy arranging their edible masterpiece and can snack on it once they’re finished. It’s a healthy, hands-on activity that’s both fun and delicious.
10. Gratitude Journal for Kids
A gratitude journal is a meaningful way for kids to reflect on what they’re thankful for, not just on Thanksgiving, but every day. Give each child a small notebook and some fun markers, then let them write or draw something they’re grateful for.
This simple activity can become a cherished keepsake and teaches kids the importance of gratitude. It’s a quiet activity that allows for reflection and personal expression.
11. Thanksgiving Cards for Family
Creating Thanksgiving cards is a sweet way for kids to show their appreciation for family. Give them blank cards, markers, and stickers, and let them decorate each card with their unique designs.
They can write notes of gratitude inside, making each card a heartfelt keepsake. Passing these cards around the Thanksgiving table adds a special, personal touch to the celebration.
12. Make a Thankful Garland
A thankful garland is both a craft activity and a beautiful Thanksgiving decoration. Kids can write things they’re thankful for on small pieces of paper, then string them together to create a garland to hang up.
This garland becomes a reminder of gratitude that the whole family can enjoy throughout the holiday. It’s a simple, festive activity that adds a thoughtful touch to your Thanksgiving decor.
13. Read Thanksgiving Books
Thanksgiving books provide a quiet activity that also teaches kids about the holiday. Set up a cozy reading nook with books that explain the history of Thanksgiving or stories about gratitude.
Kids can read alone or take turns reading aloud, which also creates an opportunity for family bonding. It’s a relaxing way to unwind and learn more about Thanksgiving traditions.
14. Thanksgiving Word Search
A Thanksgiving-themed word search is a fun way for kids to practice vocabulary while celebrating the holiday. Print a word search with holiday-related words, like “turkey,” “gratitude,” and “family,” then challenge kids to find them all.
This quiet activity is perfect for winding down, and it can be completed alone or in pairs. Word searches combine fun with learning, making it an engaging Thanksgiving activity.
15. Turkey Math Games
Turkey math games are a playful way to incorporate learning into Thanksgiving activities. Use turkey-themed counting or addition games for younger kids, while older children can try solving holiday-related puzzles.
These games bring a bit of educational fun to the day, helping kids keep their minds sharp. It’s a great way to keep them engaged and add a little learning to the festivities.
16. Scavenger Hunt
An outdoor scavenger hunt adds excitement and a chance to explore nature. Create a list of fall-themed items like acorns, colorful leaves, and pinecones, then let kids search for them outside.
This activity lets them enjoy the crisp autumn weather while hunting for treasures. It’s a fun way to spend time outdoors and explore the beauty of the season.
17. Fall Leaf Pile Jumping
Sometimes, the simplest activities bring the most joy. Rake up a large pile of leaves, and let kids jump in, toss them around, and enjoy some carefree fall fun.
Leaf jumping provides endless giggles and is a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors. It’s a classic autumn activity that gets kids moving and smiling.
18. Nature Walk and Thanksgiving Discussion
A family nature walk is a perfect opportunity to talk about the meaning of Thanksgiving. Encourage kids to observe nature, collect items like pinecones, and share what they’re grateful for.
It combines outdoor exploration with thoughtful discussions about gratitude and family traditions. It’s a meaningful way to bond and reflect on the holiday.
19. Thanksgiving Movie Marathon
A cozy movie marathon is a relaxing way to end the day. Choose family-friendly Thanksgiving movies or cartoons, and set up snacks and blankets for a cozy viewing experience.
Kids can enjoy the downtime, and it gives adults a chance to unwind as well. It’s a perfect way to end Thanksgiving on a comfortable, peaceful note.
20. Storytelling Circle
Storytelling lets family members share favorite Thanksgiving memories or make up their own stories. Gather in a circle and take turns sharing, encouraging kids to get creative.
This activity is both entertaining and creates a sense of warmth and connection. It’s a simple way to bring everyone together and share laughter.
21. Handprint Turkeys
Handprint turkeys are a fun and personal Thanksgiving craft. Have kids dip their hands in paint or trace them on paper, using each finger as a colorful feather.
These handprint turkeys make for sweet keepsakes that capture the memory of Thanksgiving. It’s a craft that’s quick, easy, and memorable.
22. Painted Pinecones
Painted pinecones add color and fun to Thanksgiving decor. Give kids small brushes and paints in autumn colors, then let them decorate pinecones for table decorations.
This project is great for younger kids who love hands-on activities. Painted pinecones add a unique, festive touch to your Thanksgiving setup.
23. Make a Turkey Puppet
A turkey puppet lets kids explore their creativity and storytelling skills. Use a paper bag as the base, and add colorful feathers, eyes, and a beak to create the puppet.
Kids can put on their own Thanksgiving show, letting their imaginations run wild. It’s a playful way to end the day and brings plenty of laughter and fun.
Wrapping Up the Fun
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to celebrate family, gratitude, and connection. By engaging kids in these fun and meaningful activities, you’re creating memories that they’ll cherish for years. From crafts to games to outdoor adventures, each activity brings a unique way for kids to experience the joy of Thanksgiving. So, let’s make this Thanksgiving one to remember with activities that keep little ones happy and engaged!