Thanksgiving is about more than just the feast — it’s about spending meaningful time together. One of the best ways to slow down and make lasting memories is by starting Thanksgiving movie traditions. Whether you love heartwarming family films, animated favorites, or laugh-out-loud comedies, these Thanksgiving movies are perfect for cozying up after a big meal. My kids love having family nights, and instead of always doing just a movie, we like to integrate fun snacks and a craft or other activity. I have included 6 great Thanksgiving movies (some for younger, some for older, some for both) and a snack and craft for each one, as well as how to watch them.
Below you’ll find a list of family-friendly Thanksgiving movies, how to stream them, snack ideas to go with each one, and a fun craft you can do together as a family while you watch. I would love to know which one is your favorite!
Thanksgiving Movie Traditions the Whole Family Will Love
1. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
- Where to Watch: Streaming on Apple TV+ or available for rent on Amazon Prime Video.
- Why It’s Perfect: This classic animated special is the ultimate Thanksgiving tradition. It’s short, sweet, and filled with lessons about gratitude and friendship.
- Snack Idea: Make your own “Charlie Brown feast” with popcorn, buttered toast, jelly beans, and pretzels—just like in the movie!
- Family Craft: Create Thankful Trees. Cut out paper leaves and write something you’re thankful for on each one. Tape them to a small branch or tree cutout and display it on your dinner table.
2. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)
- Where to Watch: Available on Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV.
- Why It’s Perfect: This hilarious classic starring Steve Martin and John Candy is all about the journey home for Thanksgiving—and the chaos that ensues along the way.
- Snack Idea: Serve travel-friendly snacks like trail mix, popcorn, and mini sandwiches to go along with the travel theme.
- Family Craft: Make travel maps of your own! Print a U.S. map and have everyone color the places they’ve visited or dream of visiting together as a family.
3. Free Birds (2013)
- Where to Watch: Rent or stream on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.
- Why It’s Perfect: This animated comedy is a hit with kids and delivers a fun twist on Thanksgiving traditions, as two turkeys try to rewrite history and take turkey off the menu.
- Snack Idea: Popcorn turkey legs! Fill paper cones with caramel popcorn and wrap them in brown paper to look like turkey legs.
- Family Craft: Create handprint turkeys using colorful paper, googly eyes, and markers. Write a thankful message on each feather for a fun keepsake.
4. Miracle on 34th Street (1947 or 1994)
- Where to Watch: Available on Disney+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
- Why It’s Perfect: While often thought of as a Christmas movie, this classic actually begins with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. It’s a great way to transition from Thanksgiving to the holiday season.
- Snack Idea: Serve warm apple cider and homemade sugar cookies shaped like stars or parade floats.
- Family Craft: Make your own mini parade floats out of shoe boxes, paper, and small toys. Have a family “Thanksgiving Parade” through the living room!
5. The Blind Side (2009)
- Where to Watch: Stream on Netflix or rent on Amazon Prime Video.
- Why It’s Perfect: Based on a true story, this inspiring film highlights kindness, family, and giving — all themes that fit beautifully with Thanksgiving.
- Snack Idea: Enjoy hearty comfort food like baked mac and cheese or soft pretzels for a cozy movie night.
- Family Craft: Make a gratitude board. Use a large poster board and have everyone add pictures, drawings, or words that represent what they’re thankful for.
6. Home for the Holidays (1995)
- Where to Watch: Rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.
- Why It’s Perfect: This dramedy about family reunions captures the funny, awkward, and heartfelt moments that happen when everyone gathers together for Thanksgiving.
- Snack Idea: Create a “family snack platter” with everyone’s favorite treats — chips, dips, fruit, and sweets.
- Family Craft: Decorate family photo frames. Use craft sticks, paint, and embellishments, then add a family photo from Thanksgiving.
Tips for Building Your Thanksgiving Movie Traditions
- Pick a Theme: Choose a mix of classic and new films so there’s something for everyone.
- Create a Cozy Space: Bring out the blankets, pillows, and dim the lights for that movie-theater feel.
- Keep It Annual: Watch one or two of these movies every year to create a meaningful family tradition.
- Add a Snack and Craft Table: Set up a small snack and craft station so everyone can enjoy something hands-on during or after the movie.
Make This Thanksgiving Extra Memorable
Thanksgiving is about gratitude, connection, and creating traditions that bring joy year after year. Whether you’re watching A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving with your little ones or laughing your way through Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, pairing each movie with themed snacks and crafts will make your family time even more special.
Start your Thanksgiving movie traditions this year and make it a celebration everyone looks forward to.
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