Between welcoming guests, prepping the turkey, and the other many to-dos, it can be difficult to incorporate unique family traditions into the busy day. Even with the chaos of turkey day, we compiled the best and easiest Thanksgiving tradition ideas to start as a family.
1. Head outdoors before dinner
Take advantage of the nice weather and bring the turkey day traditions outside. Start a game of backyard football. Turn on the gas fire pit to keep the spectators warm, and set out some delicious hors d'oeurves to create an effortless holiday ritual.
2. Play a Thanksgiving favorite
Nothing gets guests in the turkey mood like a Thanksgiving-themed special. If you're looking for a couple favorites, you're never too old for Garfield's Thanksgiving or A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. Are you already dreaming about Christmas? Then you can't go wrong with Hallmark Channel movies. They're "Countdown to Christmas"starts early for feel-good movie lovers. Turn on the beautiful fireplace get cozy, and bond over the quirky movie moments.
3. Make a Thanksgiving thankfulness chain
Simply cut some strips of papers and lay out a few pens for this unique, meaningful family tradition. Instruct guests to write down what they're thankful for on the strips of paper. Then connect them to make a Thanksgiving chain, and hang it on your fireplace mantel After a delicious meal, gather around the fire and read aloud each link for a memorable Thanksgiving tradition.
4. Give back
Your local food shelf or other charitable organizations typically host food drives, Thanksgiving meals, or meal deliveries to ensure every family gets a hearty Thanksgiving dinner. Include the entire family in the volunteer opportunity and give back for your family's holiday customs.
5. Eat outdoors
If you live in a warmer climate, enjoy the main event outdoors. There's nothing more relaxing and fall-like than eating your Thanksgiving meal surrounded by the beautiful autumn landscape. Bonus: it's a subtle way to show-off your beautiful patio space. Don't forget those final pieces to complete your outdoor room before you debut it to your guests.
6. Start a board game tournament
Bring out the classics like cribbage and Monopoly® and see who gets the holiday bragging rights. Your family will soon be practicing their board game skills all year-round in anticipation for this free, easy holiday tradition idea.
7. Create a cozy, post-dinner space
Start your gas fireplace and invite guests to relax next to the cozy, warm fire. Family members appreciate a comfy spot for their post-dinner naps and food comas. Turn on the football game, and let the fun memories begin!
8. Strategize together
With Black Friday and Small Business Saturday in the shadows of Thanksgiving, plan and partake in the shopping festivities as a family. Contact your local stores ahead of time to hear the upcoming deals and promotions. Participating dealers will be offering 10% off all Outdoor GreatRoom products.
With all of these fun Thanksgiving tradition ideas, you're sure to fit in a few to make it the most memorable turkey day!
