When I started looking for Thanksgiving gifts for family, I wanted ideas that went beyond the usual bottle of wine or box of chocolates.
Over the years, I’ve found that the most memorable gifts are the ones that bring everyone together, something fun to play after dinner, a treat to share around the table, or a little surprise that makes the kids feel included.
In this list, I’ve gathered the kinds of gifts that have actually worked for us during Thanksgiving. Games that kept the whole family laughing, food baskets that felt generous but easy, and small touches that turned into traditions.
Whether you’re hosting or visiting, these ideas are simple ways to add a little more joy (and a lot less stress) to your holiday gathering.
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Thanksgiving Gift Ideas for Family
Finding the right Thanksgiving gift for family doesn’t have to be complicated.
I’ve learned that the best presents are the ones everyone can enjoy together, whether it’s a game that sparks laughter, a snack basket passed around the table, or something small that makes the holiday feel extra festive.
If you’re visiting loved ones or hosting the big meal yourself, these family gift ideas are a thoughtful way to show gratitude and add a little more fun to the celebration.
Here are some of my favorite picks for this Thanksgiving:
Micro-Pop Microwave Popcorn Popper
Movie nights are a big tradition in our house around the holidays, and this little popcorn popper makes them feel special without much effort. It’s safer than juggling a hot bag from the microwave, and I love that you can measure the kernels and even melt butter right on top. If you’re looking for a family gift that’s practical and fun, this one gets used well beyond Thanksgiving night.
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Giant Yard Dice Set (All Weather)
We tried these giant dice at a family cookout, and they were such a hit we started bringing them out for Thanksgiving too. They’re sturdy enough for outside play but easy to use indoors if the weather turns cold. The best part? Everyone, from little kids to grandparents, can join in. It’s one of those gifts that quickly becomes a tradition because it’s simple, silly, and full of laughter.
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Thanksgiving Bean Bag Toss
The year my turkey took longer to cook than expected, this bean bag toss game saved the day. The kids were happily tossing bean bags in the living room while the grown-ups were busy in the kitchen. The bright Thanksgiving theme makes it feel festive, and it’s a game you’ll find yourself pulling out year after year when you need to keep kids entertained.Check out all of our free printable Thanksgiving games.
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Giant Thanksgiving Activity Poster for Families
One of my favorite finds is this oversized coloring poster. We taped it to the dining table last Thanksgiving, and it kept the kids occupied for nearly an hour while adults chatted. It’s more than just coloring, it turns into a shared art project that makes the whole day feel more connected. If you want something simple but memorable, this is an easy win.Related: Download our free Thanksgiving placemats too.
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2 Pack Thanksgiving Ring Toss
I wasn’t sure about inflatable turkey hats at first, but this ring toss turned into a surprisingly fun game for all ages. The kids wore the hats and chased each other around, while the adults tried their luck tossing rings. It’s silly, yes, but that’s exactly what makes it such a good family gift, it breaks the ice and gets everyone laughing together.
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Thanksgiving Paper Glasses
These turkey-themed paper glasses are such a small thing, but they made a big impact at our Thanksgiving table. The kids wore them proudly, and before long the adults joined in for photos. They’re a lighthearted party favor that instantly adds humor to the day. I like keeping a set on hand because they’re inexpensive but create memories that last far longer than the paper itself.
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Who Knows You Best
We pulled out Who Knows You Best after Thanksgiving dinner one year, and it turned into one of those nights where everyone stayed up later than planned because nobody wanted the game to end. The questions are fun without being too hard, and they spark conversations you wouldn’t normally have. It’s a perfect family gift if you want something that helps people connect while laughing at the same time.
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Family Charades Game
Charades is such a classic, but this family version makes it easier for kids to join in without feeling left out. My son loved acting out the clues while the adults tried to guess, and it had us all laughing until our sides hurt. It’s one of those gifts that never really goes out of style, because every round feels different depending on who’s playing.
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Snack Gift Basket
Whenever we’ve brought this basket to Thanksgiving, it’s always been the first thing opened after dinner. Everyone grabs a favorite treat, and it feels festive without being too formal. I like that there’s a little bit of everything, chocolate for the sweet tooths, caramel for indulgence, and crunchy snacks for balance. It’s the kind of gift that shows thoughtfulness without needing much explanation.
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Dried Fruit Gift Basket
If you’re looking for something on the healthier side, this dried fruit tray is a great pick. We shared it with family last year, and it turned into a beautiful snack board alongside cheese and crackers. It’s a nice option if you want to bring a gift that looks generous but is also practical for people who don’t want a ton of sweets.
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MOVIE NIGHT Popcorn Kit
We’re big on movie marathons around the holidays, and this popcorn set makes it easy to keep everyone happy. The kids love picking out their favorite seasoning, while the adults usually argue over which flavor is best. It turns a simple snack into something fun, and it’s a great family gift that gets used long after Thanksgiving dinner is over.
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Peanuts Chocolate Thanksgiving Variety Gift Pack
If your family loves Charlie Brown, this themed chocolate set is a sweet little nod to tradition. We added it to the dessert table one year, and the kids thought it was extra special to have a Thanksgiving treat tied to their favorite holiday movie. It’s a small gift, but one that brings a lot of smiles.
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Do You Really Know Your Family?
This game became a fast favorite in our house. We played it after pie last Thanksgiving, and it had everyone, teens, grandparents, and little ones, joining in. The mix of silly questions and fun challenges kept us laughing for hours. It’s the kind of gift that doesn’t just fill time, it actually brings out new stories and moments you wouldn’t get otherwise.
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Thanksgiving Party Table Favors
These little turkey-themed party favors are the kind of thing you don’t realize you need until you see how much fun they add. The kids loved pulling them apart to find the tiny jokes and trinkets inside, and it gave the adults a laugh too. They’re a simple way to make the table feel festive and interactive without much prep.
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Chocolate Gift Basket
When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with a box of chocolate cookies. I like to bring this basket when we’re visiting friends for Thanksgiving because it feels generous without being overwhelming. There’s a good mix of flavors, so everyone finds something they like. Plus, it doubles as a ready-made dessert if the host needs a little extra for the table.
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More Thanksgiving Family Gifts
The best Thanksgiving gifts for kids are ones that keep them busy and happy during the holiday, like board games or big coloring posters.
For Thanksgiving gifts for boys, active options such as sports gear, building sets, or simple outdoor games are always a hit.
Creative kits make wonderful Thanksgiving gifts for girls, think arts and crafts supplies, DIY jewelry, or imaginative storybooks.
Last Updated on 2 September 2025 by Clare Brown
