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As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s the perfect time to start new family traditions that will create lasting memories. Here are 17 unique and meaningful traditions you can begin with your loved ones this Thanksgiving.
1. Gratitude Jar
Start the tradition of a Gratitude Jar where each family member writes down what they’re thankful for on slips of paper. You can read them aloud at the end of dinner, fostering a spirit of gratitude and reflection.
2. Family Recipe Swap
Encourage each family member to bring a favorite recipe to share, creating a diverse and delicious Thanksgiving meal. This tradition not only enriches the dinner table but also passes down cherished family recipes.
3. Thanksgiving Walk
After the hearty meal, take a family walk through the neighborhood or a nearby park. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the fall weather, aid digestion, and continue conversations.
4. Tablecloth of Thanks
Lay out a plain tablecloth and have everyone write what they are thankful for that year. Use fabric markers to keep it as a keepsake, adding to it each Thanksgiving.
5. Storytime with Grandparents
Invite grandparents to share stories from their past Thanksgivings. This not only preserves family history but also strengthens bonds across generations.
6. Volunteer Together
Spend part of the day volunteering at a local soup kitchen or food bank. Helping others as a family instills values of generosity and compassion.
7. Thanksgiving Game Night
After dinner, break out the board games or cards for a fun family game night. Choose games that everyone can enjoy, promoting joy and togetherness.
8. Photograph Reenactments
Take a favorite old family photograph and recreate it with current family members. This playful activity connects the past with the present and makes for a hilarious photo album addition.
9. Annual Family Talent Show
Host a family talent show where everyone gets to showcase their unique skills, whether it’s singing, dancing, or telling jokes. It’s a great way to discover hidden talents and encourage creativity.
10. DIY Centerpieces
Make Thanksgiving more personal by crafting DIY centerpieces for the dinner table. Use natural elements like leaves and pinecones to reflect the season’s beauty.
11. Pie Baking Contest
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Turn pie baking into a friendly competition. Each family member can bake their favorite pie, and everyone votes on the best one. It’s a delicious way to end the Thanksgiving meal.
12. Outdoor Movie Marathon
Set up a projector outside and watch Thanksgiving-themed movies as a family. It’s a cozy way to wind down the day and enjoy each other’s company.
13. Thanksgiving Puzzle
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Work on a Thanksgiving-themed puzzle together. It’s a relaxing activity that encourages teamwork and provides a sense of accomplishment once completed.
14. Family History Trivia
Create a trivia game with questions about your family history. It’s an entertaining way to learn more about your heritage and spark interesting conversations.
15. Create a Time Capsule
Have each family member contribute an item or a letter to a family time capsule. Bury it together and decide on a future date to open it, creating a bridge to the future.
16. Thanksgiving Tree of Thanks
Craft a ‘Tree of Thanks’ where everyone writes what they’re thankful for on a paper leaf and hangs it on the tree. This visual display of gratitude can be a central decoration.
17. Sibling Sleepover
Encourage siblings to have a sleepover together, even if they’re living under the same roof. It promotes closer bonds and creates cherished memories.