Top 10 Meaningful and Fun Things to Do on Thanksgiving this Year (2024)
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But beyond the turkey and stuffing, there’s plenty you can do to make the day truly special, whether it’s through laughter, giving back, or creating new traditions. Here are 10 ideas to make your Thanksgiving unforgettable!
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| Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey—it’s about laughter, love, and creating moments you’ll remember for years to come. |
1. Start with Gratitude (and Make It Fun!)
Thanksgiving is all about saying “thank you,” but let’s jazz it up. Create a "Thankfulness Jar" where everyone writes down what they're grateful for—then take turns guessing who wrote what. You’ll get laughs, heartfelt moments, and maybe some hilarious surprises (“I’m thankful for Mom’s weird dancing at Zumba”).
Bonus tip: Turn it into a competition with a prize for the funniest or most touching gratitude note.
2. Volunteer as a Family
There’s nothing more meaningful than giving back. Sign up to serve meals at a soup kitchen or deliver food to those in need. If you can’t get out, organize a donation drive for canned goods or warm clothes.
To make it fun, create a "giving competition"—see who can donate the most items or pack the most care kits. Loser has to do the dishes after Thanksgiving dinner!
3. Host a “Friendsgiving”
Have friends who can’t make it home for the holidays? Invite them over for a relaxed, potluck-style celebration. Set a quirky theme like “Thanksgiving Pajama Party” or “Retro Feast” where everyone dresses in outfits inspired by the 70s or 80s.
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Pro tip: Have a "mismatched dish contest" to see who brings the weirdest combo of food (sweet potato sushi, anyone?).
4. Cook (or Burn) Together
Thanksgiving meals are more fun when everyone joins in. Assign roles to family members: one person handles desserts, another decorates the table, and the brave soul cooks the turkey. For a humorous twist, make it a “MasterChef” competition, complete with a dramatic judging panel (your grandmother will take this very seriously).
And don’t stress if something goes wrong—burnt rolls are practically a Thanksgiving tradition.
5. Share Family Stories (or Make Some Up)
Gather around and let older family members tell tales about the “good old days.” For extra giggles, introduce a game of "Two Truths and a Lie," Thanksgiving edition. Can Aunt Susan really eat an entire turkey leg in one sitting? Did Grandpa really meet Elvis?
This game not only sparks laughter but also helps everyone bond.
6. Enjoy the Great Outdoors
After stuffing yourself with food, take the family outside. Organize a football game in the yard (even if you’re clueless about the rules) or go for a leisurely walk to admire fall foliage. Live somewhere warm? Try a post-dinner frisbee match at the park.
For extra fun, host a “Turkey Trot” race—but make it goofy. Participants have to waddle like turkeys to win.
| Quick Facts About Thanksgiving 2024 • Date: Thursday, November 28, 2024 • Number of Holiday Days (Including Weekend): 4 days (November 28 - December 1) • Projected Travelers: Over 55 million Americans are expected to travel by air, car, or train during the holiday period. • Top Travel Destinations: New York City, Orlando, Las Vegas, and San Francisco are among the most popular spots. • Weather Forecast: Generally cool across the U.S., with possible snow in northern states and rain showers in some areas. Southern regions may experience milder, sunny weather. • Retail Closures: Over 20 major retailers will remain closed on Thanksgiving Day, including Walmart, Target, and Costco. • Black Friday Prep: Early online Black Friday deals will launch on Thanksgiving, while in-store sales begin early Friday morning. • Charitable Efforts: Thousands of food drives, free meal events, and volunteer initiatives are planned nationwide to help those in need. Thanksgiving 2024 promises to be a memorable celebration filled with gratitude, traditions, and opportunities to connect with loved ones. |
7. Create a Thanksgiving Movie Marathon
Once the food coma hits, it’s time for movies! Line up a mix of classics like Planes, Trains, and Automobiles and family favorites like Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. Don’t forget the snacks—leftover stuffing makes surprisingly great finger food.
To keep it light, introduce a "Thanksgiving Bingo" card with tropes like "awkward family dinner scene" or "character burns something."
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8. Make a DIY Craft Station
Let your inner artist shine! Set up a craft table where kids (and adults!) can create turkey-themed decorations, gratitude cards, or silly hats. Use supplies like paper plates, markers, and feathers for easy crafts.
Turn it into a competition with categories like “Most Creative” and “Most Ridiculous.” Bonus: use the crafts as table decor!
Learn more: Thanksgiving 2024: Are Supermarkets Open? Convenience Stores, and More
9. Start a New Tradition
Traditions make holidays memorable, so why not create your own? Here are a few ideas:
- The Pie-Off: Everyone bakes a different pie, and the group votes on their favorite.
- The Thanksgiving Talent Show: From singing to dad jokes, everyone gets a chance to shine.
- Midnight Feast: Save a slice of pie for a late-night snack together.
Each year, add a new twist to keep things exciting.
10. Reflect and Plan for the Future
Take a moment to reflect on the year with your loved ones. What was the most surprising moment? What are you looking forward to next year? For added fun, make it a time capsule activity—write down your reflections and bury them to read next Thanksgiving.
Pro tip: If you're feeling brave, ask everyone to predict next year’s “biggest family drama” and see who’s right!
Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey—it’s about laughter, love, and creating moments you’ll remember for years to come. Whether you’re playing turkey trivia, baking pies, or simply enjoying time with loved ones, this holiday is the perfect time to celebrate all the things that make life special. So grab your stretchy pants, turn on the parade, and get ready to have your best Thanksgiving yet!
