20 Classic Thanksgiving Movies to Watch With the Whole Family This Year

For many families, watching TV together after a big holiday meal is a beloved tradition. The best Thanksgiving movies remind us what we’re thankful for, while also showing the fun and sometimes messy reality of family gatherings. This collection includes movies for everyone – from cartoons to touching stories – making them perfect for relaxing after dinner and enjoying time with the people you care about.

‘A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving’ (1973)

In “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” Charlie Brown tries to put together a Thanksgiving dinner after Peppermint Patty unexpectedly invites herself and her friends. When Snoopy pitches in to help, the meal turns into a simple spread of toast and popcorn. Through the funny chaos, the Peanuts gang discovers what’s really important: being thankful and having friends. This classic animated special has been a popular TV tradition for many years because of its heartwarming story and simple message.

‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles’ (1987)

Neal Page just wants to get home to Chicago for Thanksgiving, but his trip is hilariously complicated by Del Griffith, a relentlessly talkative salesman. They face a series of travel mishaps – from canceled flights to broken-down trains – along the way. The film, directed by John Hughes, blends broad comedy with surprisingly touching moments as Neal and Del connect, ultimately showing the frustrations of holiday travel and the value of kindness towards others.

‘Miracle on 34th Street’ (1947)

The movie starts at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, where a kind elderly man fills in for a Santa who’s had too much to drink. When the man insists he is the real Santa Claus, a young lawyer takes on the case to prove it. The film beautifully shows how belief and magic can affect a world that’s become too skeptical, and it’s a perfect way to kick off the holiday season.

‘Home for the Holidays’ (1995)

Claudia Larson has a rough time leading up to her Thanksgiving trip home, where she’ll reunite with her quirky family. The story perfectly captures the funny and often tense moments that happen when different personalities come together, and a talented cast brings those realistic family dynamics to life with witty conversations and believable scenes. Ultimately, it’s a heartwarming reminder that family connections remain strong, even during chaotic holidays.

‘Dutch’ (1991)

Dutch, a blue-collar worker, agrees to drive his girlfriend’s privileged son home from boarding school for Thanksgiving break. The trip is filled with problems, pushing the two, who initially dislike each other, to depend on one another. As they overcome challenges, their animosity gives way to understanding and respect. This film, written by John Hughes, is another heartwarming story about connecting across generations during the holiday season.

‘Son in Law’ (1993)

During Thanksgiving break, a college student introduces her quirky resident advisor, Crawl, to her family on their farm. Her down-to-earth family has a hard time understanding Crawl’s unusual style and way of life, but he eventually charms them with his sincerity and willingness to pitch in on the farm. The movie is a funny look at bridging cultural gaps and learning to accept those who are different.

‘Addams Family Values’ (1993)

When Wednesday and Pugsley are sent to summer camp, they find themselves stuck in a badly researched Thanksgiving play. Instead of cooperating, they overthrow the counselors and completely change the play during the performance. The movie offers a darkly funny and critical look at the usual Thanksgiving traditions, and the resulting Thanksgiving scene has become a beloved and often-quoted moment for fans of the series.

‘Little Women’ (1994)

This film follows the March sisters as they grow up during the Civil War, while their father is away fighting. It highlights their acts of kindness and the importance of family, particularly around holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. With its warm and inviting feel and historical setting, it’s a feel-good movie perfect for watching during the holiday season.

‘The Blind Side’ (2009)

The film tells the inspiring true story of Michael Oher, a homeless teen who is welcomed into the Tuohy family. They support him and help him develop his talent for football. A key moment shows the family connecting over a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, choosing togetherness over watching TV. The story beautifully illustrates the power of compassion and what it means to create a family through choice, making it a heartwarming and uplifting drama.

‘Free Birds’ (2013)

This fun animated movie tells the story of two turkeys who team up to travel back to the very first Thanksgiving. They have a big mission: to stop turkeys from being served and completely change history! It’s a fast-paced and funny adventure that’s perfect for kids, and it shows Thanksgiving from a totally new point of view – the turkeys’!

‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’ (2009)

Mr. Fox goes back on his word and starts stealing from three grumpy farmers. This leads to a big showdown, and all the animals have to work together to survive. The movie, directed by Wes Anderson, uses a special stop-motion style with beautiful fall colors. The heartwarming ending, where everyone celebrates being alive and together, feels especially fitting for Thanksgiving.

‘Rocky’ (1976)

Rocky Balboa is training for the biggest fight of his life – the world heavyweight championship – and trying to build a relationship with a quiet woman named Adrian. They have a memorable first date ice skating on Thanksgiving. The movie, set in a tough, cold Philadelphia, is an inspiring story about never giving up and the power of support.

‘Grumpy Old Men’ (1993)

Okay, so I just saw this really charming comedy, and it’s about two guys who’ve been at each other’s throats for, well, forever. Then, a woman moves in across the street and things really kick off. Their silly rivalry gets turned up to eleven during the holidays, leading to a Thanksgiving dinner you won’t forget. What I loved most was the fantastic chemistry between the two lead actors – they really sell the idea of these aging, stubborn guys. Ultimately, it’s a light and funny movie about letting go of grudges and realizing it’s never too late for a fresh start. Definitely a feel-good watch!

‘Tower Heist’ (2011)

A team of building workers decides to rob a rich penthouse resident to get back their stolen pensions. They choose the busy Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as the perfect distraction, using the noise and crowds to hide their actions. The movie is a funny, exciting adventure that cleverly incorporates the famous parade balloons and floats into the story, offering a lighthearted escape from typical holiday family movies.

‘Paul Blart: Mall Cop’ (2009)

On the busy Black Friday after Thanksgiving, a quiet security guard finds himself the unlikely hero when criminals invade the mall. Paul is determined to protect his daughter and show everyone what he’s capable of, even though people don’t take him seriously. The movie is a funny, lighthearted comedy with plenty of physical humor that the whole family can enjoy, following Paul’s journey to save the day.

‘You’ve Got Mail’ (1998)

This romantic comedy tells the story of two competitors who unexpectedly fall for each other through secret email exchanges, all while their businesses clash. A memorable moment takes place during the chaotic Thanksgiving grocery shopping rush. The film beautifully portrays the feel of New York City in autumn, celebrating love and the changing seasons.

‘Garfield’s Thanksgiving’ (1989)

Jon Arbuckle is having a veterinarian over for dinner, so he puts Garfield on a diet. Garfield, predictably, isn’t happy about the lack of food and tries everything he can to sabotage the plan. Luckily, Grandma shows up and makes sure dinner, especially the turkey, turns out perfectly. This beloved animated special is full of the familiar humor and heartwarming feelings that fans remember from their childhood.

‘What’s Cooking?’ (2000)

This movie follows four Los Angeles families from different backgrounds as they get ready for Thanksgiving. It beautifully shows how various cultures celebrate this American holiday, and how similar their experiences are. As each family prepares their unique Thanksgiving meal, old tensions bubble up and hidden truths come to light, capturing the relatable chaos and warmth of any family gathering.

‘Pieces of April’ (2003)

April Burns tries to bring her family together for Thanksgiving in her tiny New York City apartment, but her cooking doesn’t go as planned. She needs help from her neighbors to get the turkey on the table. As her family travels to the city, each member carries their own personal issues. The movie is a realistic and heartwarming story about forgiveness and finding joy even when things aren’t perfect.

‘Chicken Run’ (2000)

This animated movie follows a group of chickens trying to break free from the farm and avoid becoming dinner. Though not specifically about Thanksgiving, the story centers around animals trying to escape being eaten. It’s a heartwarming tale about freedom and teamwork that appeals to families, and its claymation style gives it a classic, enduring charm.

Please share your favorite Thanksgiving movie traditions in the comments.

2025-11-27 21:46