Thanksgiving is the perfect time for gratitude, togetherness, and celebration. It’s also an opportunity to connect with family and friends young and old. And sometimes, it’s fun to start new traditions too!
Here are ten Thanksgiving activities and ideas for anyone ages 1-100 that just might become new traditions in your family.
Thanksgiving Recipe Swap
Seniors have a lot of Thanksgivings under their belt, which means they have plenty of favorite holiday recipes. Share recipe collections that bring generations together.
Gratitude Jar
A gratitude jar is a simple way to reflect on the blessings of the past year. Seniors should write down what they’re grateful for throughout the year and place the notes in a decorated jar. Then they read them on Thanksgiving Day with family—bonus points if you can get everyone to do this!
Thanksgiving-Themed Crafting
Crafting brings joy and creativity, and there are plenty of Thanksgiving-themed crafts to try! Ideas include decorating pumpkins, making autumn wreaths, or creating homemade Thanksgiving cards for family and friends.
Classic Thanksgiving Movies and Shows
Watching Thanksgiving-themed films or parades from around the country is a great way for seniors to relax and feel part of the holiday spirit. Consider movies like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving or watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Fall Nature Walks
For seniors who enjoy the outdoors, a peaceful fall walk can be refreshing. Whether they go with family or on their own, they can soak up the autumn colors and appreciate the season’s beauty.
Donate Harvest Baskets
If you or your older family members have a garden or get some extra produce from the grocery store or farmer’s market, assemble a harvest-themed basket with vegetables, fruits, nuts, and canned goods to donate to food pantries.
Thanksgiving Bingo
Bingo is a timeless game that can be customized for Thanksgiving. Bingo boards could feature images like pumpkins, pies, and turkeys to add a holiday twist.
Cook Dishes Together
Seniors who enjoy cooking can try classic Thanksgiving recipes, like pumpkin pie or stuffing (or dressing as Southerners like to say). For those who prefer a hands-off approach, they can support a local business and cater their Thanksgiving meals.
Share Thanksgiving Stories
Sharing stories from past Thanksgivings can bring back cherished memories and strengthen family bonds. Family members can take turns sharing memorable moments. This is especially great for seniors to share their stories with younger family members who don’t know what life was like decades ago.
Helping with Table Setting and Decorating
Setting the table can be a fulfilling activity for seniors because it gives them something to do and they feel helpful. Plus, it adds a festive touch to the celebration. They can arrange decorations, fold napkins, or place name cards, making the dining area special and festive for the holiday.
How Will You Incorporate New Traditions this Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a unique opportunity to celebrate life, share stories, and appreciate the time we have together. Fill your holiday season with these senior-friendly activities. And however you choose to celebrate, we hope you have a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving.
