Gathering around for a cozy movie night during Thanksgiving is great for kids and adults alike. It's a time when family members can come together, share laughs, and indulge in some delightful treats that celebrate the spirit of the season. Movies that revolve around Thanksgiving bring heartwarming themes of gratitude, togetherness, and a sprinkle of humor. Below, we've compiled a list of Thanksgiving-themed movies that are perfect for your next movie night, along with the delicious treats to accompany them.
Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas (Ages 4+, Released in 2009)
Join Curious George and the Man in the Yellow Hat as they prepare for Christmas. This charming adventure captures the joys of the season through the eyes of a lovable monkey.
This movie is sure to appeal to caregivers who appreciate stories that foster curiosity and instill a sense of holiday spirit in little ones. With its delightful animation and gentle humor, kids will be in stitches alongside their favorite little monkey.
An interesting fact about this movie is that it features several Christmas songs, making it a perfect blend of holiday cheer that resonates well into the Thanksgiving season.
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (Ages 6+, Released in 1973)
Charlie Brown faces the chaotic challenge of preparing a Thanksgiving meal with help from his friends-let the hilarity ensue!
This classic is beloved by many generations and provides caregivers with the opportunity to introduce their children to the important lessons of gratitude and friendship. It's a simple yet profound way to talk about what Thanksgiving truly means, especially for families establishing their own traditions.
One interesting tidbit is that this was the first 'Peanuts' special specifically made for television to include a storyline about Thanksgiving, paving the way for a series of vastly popular holiday specials.
Garfield's Thanksgiving (Ages 6+, Released in 1989)
Join Garfield as he tries to get out of Thanksgiving dinner preparation, only to find that the holiday is about much more than food.
This animated favorite resonates with caregivers thanks to its light-hearted humor and Garfield's cynical outlook, which both kids and parents can appreciate. It serves as a reminder that sometimes the best plans are the ones that don't involve stuffing a turkey but rather enjoying each other's company.
A fun fact about this movie is that it highlights culinary misadventures, including a hilarious version of pumpkin pie-sure to be a hit for little chefs in the making.
Free Birds (Ages 6+, Released in 2013)
Two turkeys travel back in time to change the course of history and get turkey off the Thanksgiving menu.
This film captures the essence of friendship and standing up for what you believe in, making it a wonderful choice for caregivers looking to share values of loyalty and compassion with their children. The quirky humor and adventurous plot keep kids engaged, while parents appreciate its innovative storyline.
One interesting fact about 'Free Birds' is that it was the first animated film produced by Relativity Media, showcasing their ambition to take the animation scene in a new direction.
Mouse on the Mayflower (Ages 6+, Released in 1968)
This animated feature tells the story of the Pilgrims and the first Thanksgiving from the perspective of a little mouse.
This film is perfect for imparting some historical knowledge while entertaining the children. Caregivers can enjoy the whimsical storytelling and convey the rich history of Thanksgiving in an engaging way. The film's creative approach to history provides an excellent conversation starter for children curious about their own heritage.
A little-known fact about this movie is that it was initially presented as a Thanksgiving special on television and was praised for its educational value, which remains relevant as part of holiday celebrations today.
Make your Thanksgiving movie night memorable by pairing these films with some themed treats, like pumpkin cookies, turkey-shaped sandwiches, or warm apple cider. This selection will surely entertain and impart the spirit of Thanksgiving while bringing everyone together for a heartfelt night in.