With Thanksgiving approaching, you may be wondering what to do with your kids once the table is cleared and the leftovers are tucked away. Between chilly weather, cozy blankets, and a few well-deserved days off, there’s no better time to curl up together with popcorn and watch a good movie.
But that raises the question — what is a Thanksgiving movie, anyway? Unlike Christmas or Halloween, there aren’t tons of obvious seasonal hits. Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of family-friendly films that blend gratitude, togetherness, and fun, making your Thanksgiving break fantastic.
🦃 A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
No holiday list is complete without Charlie Brown. This 1973 classic perfectly captures the spirit of Thanksgiving with humor, kindness, and a reminder that a simple meal shared with friends can mean the world. While it may no longer air on ABC, you can stream it on Apple TV+ or grab a DVD copy. It’s a short feature, so pair it with other animated favorites like Curious George or Garfield’s Thanksgiving for a cozy cartoon marathon.
🏈 Radio
Okay, it’s not technically a Thanksgiving movie — but it’s a football movie, and nothing says Thanksgiving quite like football. Based on a true story, Radio tells the heartfelt tale of a high school coach and a young man with disabilities who transform each other’s lives. It’s a great way to remind your family what it means to care for one another — and to be grateful for the people who see the best in us.
🐾 Jim Henson’s Turkey Hollow
When it comes to family entertainment, Jim Henson can do no wrong. Turkey Hollow mixes small-town Thanksgiving vibes with quirky Henson-style monsters and folklore. It’s got adventure, laughs, and just the right touch of weirdness — making it a perfect pick for kids who love fantasy creatures and lighthearted mystery.
👻 Addams Family Values
For families who enjoy a side of spooky with their stuffing, Addams Family Values delivers a Thanksgiving pageant unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Wednesday and Pugsley Addams steal the show at summer camp with their unforgettable re-enactment of the first Thanksgiving. Equal parts satire and slapstick, this one is hilarious for both kids and parents.
🕰️ Free Birds
Time-traveling turkeys? Count us in. Free Birds follows two birds on a wild mission to stop Thanksgiving from ever happening. Packed with clever jokes and wacky action, this animated film is equal parts silly and sweet — perfect for keeping younger audiences entertained while sneaking in a few laughs for the adults too.
🦖 We’re Back: A Dinosaur’s Story
Ever wonder what would happen if dinosaurs roamed the streets of New York City? This overlooked gem from the early ’90s offers pure, nostalgic fun. With a heartwarming message about friendship and courage, it’s a great reminder that gratitude sometimes means appreciating the people (or dinosaurs!) who make us feel brave.
🎄 It’s a Wonderful Life
Technically a Christmas movie, but hear us out — It’s a Wonderful Life is about gratitude, connection, and seeing the impact we have on others, which makes it perfect for Thanksgiving weekend. The timeless message that “each man’s life touches so many others” fits beautifully with the spirit of the holiday.
🌺 Lilo & Stitch
“Ohana means family, and family means nobody gets left behind.” You can’t get more Thanksgiving than that. This Disney favorite blends humor, heart, and Hawaiian sunshine. It’s a great way to remind kids that family isn’t about perfection — it’s about love, acceptance, and sticking together through chaos (and maybe the occasional alien experiment).
🗽 National Treasure
Want to sneak in a little learning between the pie and the parade? National Treasure turns American history into an action-packed treasure hunt. Challenge your kids to spot historical inaccuracies or fun facts while cheering on Nicolas Cage’s race against time. It’s fast-paced, educational, and full of patriotic adventure — perfect for teens and tweens.
🎭 Mrs. Doubtfire
Rounding out the list is Robin Williams at his absolute best. Mrs. Doubtfire reminds us that family comes in many forms and that love sometimes means doing whatever it takes to stay connected. It’s funny, heartfelt, and timeless — everything you want from a Thanksgiving family movie night.
🍿 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re into heartfelt classics, wacky comedies, or animated adventures, Thanksgiving is the perfect time to slow down, laugh, and feel grateful for the people around you. So grab a blanket, pour some cider, and press play — family movie night awaits.
