Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, togetherness, and creating cherished memories. Starting new traditions is a wonderful way to strengthen family bonds and add meaning to your celebrations. In this article, we’ll explore 10 Thanksgiving traditions to start with your family this year that are simple, enjoyable, and perfect for all ages.

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1. Gratitude Jar

A gratitude jar is a heartwarming tradition that helps everyone reflect on their blessings.

How to Start

• Provide small pieces of paper and pens for family members to write what they’re thankful for.
• Collect the notes in a decorated jar and read them aloud during dinner.

Why It’s Meaningful

• Encourages mindfulness and gratitude.
• Creates a keepsake to look back on in future years.

2. Thanksgiving Recipe Swap

Involve everyone in the meal planning with a recipe swap.

How It Works

• Ask each family member to contribute a favorite recipe.
• Rotate dishes annually so everyone gets to share their culinary traditions.

Why It’s Fun

• Adds variety to your Thanksgiving meal.
• Celebrates the unique tastes and traditions of your family.

3. Morning Turkey Trot

Get active with a fun morning turkey trot before the feast.

How to Organize

• Plan a family walk, run, or bike ride in the neighborhood.
• Join a local turkey trot event for a festive start to the day.

Benefits

• Promotes health and wellness.
• Builds excitement for the day’s celebrations.

4. Create a Thanksgiving Tablecloth Tradition

Turn your tablecloth into a canvas of memories.

How to Begin

• Use a plain cloth and fabric markers for guests to write messages or doodles.
• Add new contributions each year to create a family heirloom.

Why It’s Special

• Captures the spirit of each Thanksgiving.
• Becomes a meaningful centerpiece for future gatherings.

5. Volunteer Together

Give back to the community as a family.

Ways to Volunteer

• Serve meals at a local shelter.
• Donate non-perishable food items to a food bank.

Why It Matters

• Instills a sense of gratitude and compassion.
• Strengthens bonds through shared acts of kindness.

6. Host a Thanksgiving Talent Show

Showcase your family’s unique skills and talents.

How to Host

• Encourage performances like singing, dancing, or storytelling.
• Create a lighthearted and supportive atmosphere.

Benefits

• Adds entertainment to the day.
• Brings laughter and joy to everyone.

7. Thanksgiving Movie Marathon

Unwind with a cozy Thanksgiving movie marathon.

What to Watch

• Classic holiday films like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.
• Family-friendly comedies or heartwarming dramas.

Why It’s Relaxing

• Offers a laid-back activity after the feast.
• Creates shared memories over timeless stories.

8. DIY Centerpieces

Get creative with handmade Thanksgiving centerpieces.

How to Create Them

• Use natural elements like pinecones, pumpkins, and autumn leaves.
• Let kids and adults collaborate to craft decorations.

Why It’s Enjoyable

• Fosters creativity and teamwork.
• Adds a personal touch to your holiday decor.

9. Thanksgiving Memory Sharing

Take time to share cherished family memories.

How to Incorporate It

• Pass around old photos and tell the stories behind them.
• Encourage each person to share a favorite Thanksgiving memory.

Why It’s Meaningful

• Strengthens family connections.
• Preserves family history for future generations.

10. Start a Thanksgiving Time Capsule

Capture the essence of each Thanksgiving with a time capsule.

How to Start

• Collect mementos like notes, photos, or small trinkets from the day.
• Seal them in a container and set a date to open it in the future.

Why It’s Unique

• Creates anticipation for future holidays.
• Preserves the memories of each celebration.

Conclusion

Starting new traditions is a meaningful way to make Thanksgiving more special. From gratitude jars to memory-sharing activities, these 10 Thanksgiving traditions to start with your family this year will create lasting memories and strengthen your family bonds. Choose one or try them all, and enjoy a holiday filled with connection and joy.

https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/thanksgiving-traditions