Thanksgiving is about more than just turkey and pumpkin pie — it’s about family, laughter, and making memories together. Once the dishes are done and the football game is on, it’s the perfect time to bring everyone together for some fun and friendly competition.
At Chuck Anderson Ford, we believe family time should be filled with joy and connection — whether you’re gathered around the dinner table, watching the game, or heading out for a drive around Excelsior Springs. Here are some of the best Thanksgiving game ideas to make your holiday weekend unforgettable.
1910 W Jesse James Road, Excelsior Springs, MO 64024
816-648-6419
www.chuckandersonford.com
Built on Integrity. Backed by Family.
1. Thanksgiving Family Trivia
Start a fun trivia showdown that everyone can play! Divide into teams — adults vs. kids, or family vs. family — and see who knows the most about Thanksgiving history, traditions, and fun facts.
Examples of trivia questions:
-
What year was the first Thanksgiving celebrated?
-
What meat was likely served instead of turkey at the first feast?
-
Which president made Thanksgiving a national holiday?
You can even add in family-themed trivia for an extra personal touch — like “Who burned the rolls in 2019?” or “Which cousin always falls asleep first after dinner?”
2. Turkey Tag (for the Backyard)
Before the big meal or after dessert, get outside and burn off some energy with Turkey Tag!
Each player tucks a small piece of fabric (a “feather”) in their back pocket or waistband. The goal is to grab as many feathers as possible without losing your own. The person with the most feathers at the end wins!
It’s safe, silly, and fun for all ages — just make sure to clear a space in the yard or local park before you start running.
3. Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt
Turn your home or neighborhood into an adventure with a Thanksgiving-themed scavenger hunt.
Hide small Thanksgiving items — like mini pumpkins, pinecones, leaves, or candy corn — and make a list of clues for players to follow.
For younger kids, make it simple (“Find something orange!”). For teens and adults, make it trickier (“Find something that reminds you of gratitude”).
Pro Tip: Add small prizes like leftover desserts, stickers, or a “winner picks tomorrow’s movie” card.
4. The Gratitude Game
This one’s great for winding down after dinner — and it reminds everyone what the holiday is truly about.
Pass a bowl or basket around the table. Inside are slips of paper with gratitude prompts such as:
-
“Name one person you’re thankful for.”
-
“What made you smile this week?”
-
“What’s a lesson you learned this year?”
Each person draws a slip and shares their answer. It’s a meaningful way to connect generations and celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving.
5. Thanksgiving Pictionary or Charades
These classic games are always crowd-pleasers!
For Thanksgiving Pictionary, divide into teams and use words like:
-
Turkey
-
Football
-
Cranberry sauce
-
Black Friday
-
Family dinner
If you want to spice it up, turn it into Thanksgiving Charades — no drawing required, just act it out! You’ll be laughing in no time when Grandpa tries to mime “stuffing a turkey.”
6. “What’s Missing?” Game for Kids
This simple game is great for keeping younger family members entertained while adults clean up.
Lay several Thanksgiving-related items (a spoon, napkin, leaf, mini pumpkin, etc.) on a table. Let the kids look for 10 seconds, then cover the items and remove one. Whoever can guess what’s missing first gets a point!
It’s quick, fun, and can be played over and over.
7. Thanksgiving Bingo
Create or print Thanksgiving Bingo cards with pictures of things like:
-
Turkey
-
Pie
-
Football
-
Fall leaves
-
Family
-
Parade float
As you go through the day, players mark off the squares when they spot those things. The first to get “BINGO!” wins a small prize — maybe an extra slice of pie!
8. Family Talent Show
After the meal, let everyone show off their hidden talents. Kids can sing, tell jokes, or dance; adults can share stories, play music, or perform funny skits.
Record the performances to create a new Thanksgiving tradition — “The Anderson Family Variety Hour” has a nice ring to it!
9. “Name That Tune: Thanksgiving Edition”
Put together a playlist of songs related to the season — from football anthems to cozy fall favorites — and play short clips. The first person to name the song or artist wins a point.
Include classics like:
-
“Sweet Caroline”
-
“We Are Family”
-
“Home” by Phillip Phillips
-
“Harvest Moon” by Neil Young
Perfect for after-dinner lounging or car rides to visit family.
10. The Leftover Challenge
For the chefs (and comedians) in your family, turn leftovers into a game!
Set a timer for 15 minutes and challenge participants to create the most creative dish using only Thanksgiving leftovers.
Everyone tastes and votes for categories like:
-
Most Delicious
-
Most Creative
-
“Should Probably Never Be Made Again”
It’s fun, waste-free, and might even result in a new favorite recipe!
Make Family Time Count This Thanksgiving
Whether you’re staying home or traveling for the holidays, remember that the best part of Thanksgiving is spending time with the people you love.
At Chuck Anderson Ford, we’re thankful for the families who trust us to keep them safe on the road — during the holidays and all year long. From our family to yours, we wish you a Happy Thanksgiving filled with good food, good company, and great memories.
Chuck Anderson Ford
1910 W Jesse James Road, Excelsior Springs, MO 64024
816-648-6419
www.chuckandersonford.com
Built on Integrity. Backed by Family.