Thanksgiving is a perfect time to create new traditions that bring the family together, fostering gratitude, connection, and a sense of belonging. Whether you’re celebrating with extended family, close friends, or just your household, adding a few personal touches to the holiday can make it even more meaningful.

Here are some Thanksgiving tradition ideas that can grow with your family over the years.

 

Create a Gratitude Jar Or Book

This is a simple, heartfelt way to center the day around gratitude. Set out a jar with slips of paper and pens so family members can write down things they’re grateful for. Throughout the day, everyone can add to the jar, and after dinner, take turns reading the notes aloud. You can also do this with a small notebook if you want to save it year after year. It’s a great way to reflect on positive moments from the year and bond over shared memories.

Volunteer Together

Giving back is a wonderful way to show gratitude and instill compassion in younger family members. Find a local organization that needs volunteers for the holiday, like a soup kitchen, food pantry, or animal shelter. If going in person isn’t feasible, consider other ways to give back, like assembling care packages, donating to a food drive, or even creating cards for nursing homes. It’s a fulfilling tradition that can create lasting family memories and inspire a lifelong love for helping others.

Cook a Family Recipe Together

This connects generations and keeps family recipes alive. Choose a recipe that’s been passed down or select one dish everyone can participate in making. If you’re a small group, have each person take on a specific part of the recipe; for larger groups, divide the tasks across different dishes. Make it extra special by discussing the history behind the recipe, what it means to each family member, or any fond memories tied to it.

Annual “Turkey Trot”

It’s a fun way to stay active and start the day with energy. Many towns host organized Turkey Trot races, usually 5Ks, on Thanksgiving morning. Sign up as a family, or if a race isn’t available, create your own walk or run route nearby. This tradition is a great way to bond while staying active and can even spark a friendly family competition!

Host a Thanksgiving Movie Marathon

It’s a cozy, low-key way to end the day together. After all the eating, laughing, and games, wind down with a movie marathon. Pick a mix of family favorites, holiday-themed movies, or classic Thanksgiving specials like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. It’s a relaxing way to end the holiday, giving everyone a chance to rest and enjoy each other’s company.

Starting new traditions can add extra warmth and intention to your Thanksgiving holiday, creating memories that endure year after year. Whether it’s taking time to appreciate each other, giving back, or capturing memories in creative ways, these traditions can deepen family bonds and remind everyone of the true spirit of Thanksgiving.