Thanksgiving is more than a holiday — it’s a season to slow down, count our blessings, and make memories with the people who matter most. Whether you’re spending the day cooking together, writing gratitude notes, or helping others in your community, these simple ideas will help your family focus on thankfulness, connection, and joy.
1. Bake a Pumpkin or Apple Pie 🍁
Nothing says “Thanksgiving” like the smell of pie baking in the oven! Get the kids involved by letting them roll out dough or mix the filling — messy hands make the best memories.
2. Write Gratitude Notes ✉️
Take a few minutes to write short notes of appreciation to friends, neighbors, or family. You can slip them into lunchboxes or mail them to loved ones far away.
3. Say a Thanksgiving Prayer Together 🙏
Before your meal, take turns sharing what you’re thankful for and offer a family prayer of gratitude. It’s a meaningful way to center your day on faith and togetherness.
4. Go on a Nature Walk 🌿
Bundle up and head outside to enjoy the beauty of fall leaves, crisp air, and God’s creation. Collect leaves or acorns to use for crafts later.
5. Host a Family Dinner 🍽️
Invite relatives or close friends for a cozy dinner at home. Keep it simple, and focus on laughter, storytelling, and connection.
6. Light a Candle for Someone You Miss 🕯️
Honor loved ones who can’t be with you this season by lighting a candle in their memory. Share a favorite story about them at the dinner table.
7. Donate to a Food Drive 🥫
Teach kids the power of giving back by collecting canned goods or volunteering at a local food pantry.
8. Create a Gratitude Jar 💛
All month long, write down things you’re thankful for and place them in a jar. On Thanksgiving Day, read them together as a family reminder of your blessings.
9. Take a Family Photo 📸
Capture your Thanksgiving traditions each year — the kids grow fast, and these moments are precious!
10. Watch a Thanksgiving Movie 🎬
Cozy up after dinner with a classic Thanksgiving movie (bonus points for pajamas and leftover pie).
11. Visit a Local Farm or Market 🧺
Support local farmers while picking up seasonal produce or fresh flowers for your table.
12. Let the Kids Help Cook 👩🍳
Give little ones age-appropriate kitchen tasks. Letting them mash potatoes, stir batter, or set the table makes them feel proud and included.
13. Share What You’re Thankful For at Dinner 🥧
End your meal by going around the table and sharing one thing you’re grateful for this year — big or small.
14. Celebrate Gratitude and Togetherness🌻
Remember that Thanksgiving isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence. Whether your pie burns or your table is a little messy, what matters most is that you’re together — giving thanks, creating joy, and filling your home with love.
✨ Save this Thanksgiving Family Bucket List for inspiration throughout the season, and share it with another family who could use a little extra gratitude this year.
Pin this post for later, share it with a friend, and tag @MotherhoodUncharted when you try one of these Thanksgiving ideas — I’d love to see how your family celebrates! 🦃
👉 Follow along for more faith-filled family traditions at www.MotherhoodUncharted.com
Motherhood Uncharted 