Thanksgiving is full of traditions that bring people together. You celebrate with family and friends in unique ways. Some traditions, like eating turkey, are well known. However, many popular Thanksgiving traditions go beyond the meal. From Turkey Trots to storytelling, these activities make the day special. Each tradition helps you create memories and share moments. Here are 15 popular Thanksgiving traditions that make the holiday unforgettable.
Thanksgiving Traditions That Are Popular In the U.S.
Attending or Watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a popular Thanksgiving tradition for millions. You wake up early and gather with family to watch the giant character balloons, floats, and live performances. The parade showcases marching bands, Broadway performers, and celebrities, making it a spectacle to enjoy. It’s a way to start the day with excitement and joy. Whether you watch on TV or attend in person, it sets a festive tone and fills the morning with holiday spirit. The anticipation and wonder create lasting memories for all ages.
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Baking Thanksgiving Desserts Together
Baking desserts with your family is a delicious and popular Thanksgiving tradition. You spend time together in the kitchen preparing pies, cookies, and other treats. The warm, sweet smell of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin fills the air. Everyone has a task—rolling dough, mixing batter, or decorating. This tradition is about more than just baking; it’s about laughter, teamwork, and creating something special to share. When dessert time comes, you feel a sense of pride knowing it was made with love.
Family Football Games
A friendly football game is a popular Thanksgiving tradition that many look forward to. You grab a football, head outside, and split into teams. The game is full of playful competition and cheers. Even those who don’t play can join as enthusiastic spectators. It’s a perfect way to burn off some energy before the big feast. This tradition brings laughter and fun, creating stories you’ll talk about for years to come. It’s a reminder that Thanksgiving is about enjoying time together.
Giving Thanks and Sharing Gratitude
One of the most heartfelt and popular Thanksgiving traditions is sharing gratitude. Before the meal begins, everyone at the table takes turns saying what they’re thankful for. This moment brings a pause to reflect on the good things in life. It helps you appreciate each other and the time spent together. Sharing gratitude sets a warm and meaningful tone for the rest of the day. It deepens connections and reminds you of what truly matters. This simple act adds depth and joy to the holiday.
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Participating in the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade
The Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade is another popular Thanksgiving tradition, especially in the region. As the oldest Thanksgiving parade in the U.S., it features vibrant floats, local performers, and impressive marching bands. You might watch it on TV or see it in person if you live nearby. The parade creates excitement and kicks off the holiday with music and cheer. It’s an event that adds color and celebration to Thanksgiving morning. The lively atmosphere is perfect for getting everyone into the holiday spirit.
Playing Thanksgiving Charades or Popular Board Games
Playing games after dinner is a popular Thanksgiving tradition in many households. You gather in the living room, split into teams, and play charades or board games. Thanksgiving-themed charades add a seasonal touch, while classic games like Monopoly or Pictionary bring out the competitive spirit. This time is filled with laughter, shouts of victory, and playful teasing. It’s a way to include everyone, from kids to grandparents. These games keep the celebration going and make memories that last.
Pulling the Wishbone
Pulling the wishbone is a fun and popular Thanksgiving tradition that adds excitement to the meal. After the turkey is carved, two family members hold either end of the wishbone, make a silent wish, and pull. The person with the larger piece is said to have their wish come true. It’s a small but special moment that everyone looks forward to. This tradition brings a touch of magic to the holiday and sparks laughter. Even if your wish doesn’t come true, the memory is worth it.
Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest
Hosting a pumpkin pie eating contest is a lighthearted and popular Thanksgiving tradition in some households. Family members or friends compete to see who can eat a slice the fastest. This event turns dessert time into a fun challenge and guarantees lots of laughs. It’s a chance for everyone to show off their competitive side without taking things too seriously. The sight of pie-covered faces and laughter makes it unforgettable. Plus, even the “losers” get to enjoy a delicious slice of pie.
Storytelling of Family Memories
Storytelling is a timeless and popular Thanksgiving tradition. After dinner, you sit around the table and share stories about past holidays or family adventures. These stories can be funny, heartfelt, or even a little embarrassing. They bring everyone closer, connecting generations through shared memories. This tradition helps you learn more about each other and keeps family history alive. The stories create a warm and nostalgic atmosphere, perfect for the holiday.
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A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (credit: Apple TV)
Thanksgiving Movie Marathon
A Thanksgiving movie marathon is a cozy way to end the day. You gather on the couch, grab some blankets, and watch holiday classics like “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.” This popular Thanksgiving tradition lets everyone relax after the meal. It’s a time to enjoy family-friendly movies that add to the holiday atmosphere. Laughter and quiet moments make the evening special. This tradition is a perfect way to wind down and enjoy quality time together.
Thanksgiving Puzzle Night
Starting a big puzzle after dinner is a calm and popular Thanksgiving tradition. You and your family work together, chatting and sharing stories as you go. It’s a peaceful way to continue the holiday without screens or loud activities. The puzzle takes patience and teamwork, which makes it satisfying when completed. This tradition adds a relaxed, yet engaging, element to the evening. It brings everyone together, fostering cooperation and shared accomplishment.
Thanksgiving Volunteer Work
Volunteering on Thanksgiving is a popular tradition that adds meaning to the holiday. You might spend part of the day serving meals at a shelter or organizing food drives. Helping others is a reminder of the true spirit of Thanksgiving. This tradition shifts the focus from receiving to giving, creating a sense of fulfillment. It teaches gratitude and compassion while strengthening your bond with the community. Volunteering together makes the holiday feel even more rewarding.
Turkey Trot Races
Joining a Turkey Trot race is a popular Thanksgiving tradition for many families. You wake up early, put on your running shoes, and join others for a 5K run or walk. Some participants wear festive outfits like turkey hats or themed shirts. The race adds excitement and gives you an energy boost before the big meal. Many Turkey Trots support charities, adding a feel-good element to the event. It’s a great way to start the day and work up an appetite.
Turkey Sandwich Creations
Making turkey sandwiches from Thanksgiving leftovers is a popular tradition that continues the feast. You gather in the kitchen and create custom sandwiches using turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and more. Everyone tries different combinations and shares their favorites. This tradition makes the holiday feel even more relaxed and enjoyable. The sandwiches are a delicious way to keep the flavors going. It’s a fun and informal end to a day full of food and family.
Watching Football on TV
Watching football is a popular Thanksgiving tradition for many families. After dinner, you settle on the couch to watch the big games. The sound of the game and friendly team rivalries fill the room. It’s a perfect way to relax and unwind. Football adds excitement and sparks conversation among family members. This tradition brings a sense of comfort and familiarity to Thanksgiving Day.
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About The Author
Randy Yagi is an award-winning writer who served as the National Travel Writer for CBS for eight years. More than 900 of his stories still appear in syndication across 23 CBS websites, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. During his peak years with CBS, Randy had a reported digital audience reach of 489 million and 5.5 million monthly visitors. Additionally, his stories have appeared in the Daily Meal, CBS News, CBS Radio, Engadget, NBC.com, NJ.com, and Radio.com. He earned a media fellowship from Stanford University and is a member of Bay Area Travel Writers (BATW).
