Free Thanksgiving Word Scramble Printable (With Answers)

We always bring out a Thanksgiving word scramble while we’re waiting for the turkey to cook. It’s become one of those easy traditions that keeps everyone busy without needing screens or extra prep.

Some years we turn it into a challenge (my son loves timing us), other times it’s just something quiet for the kids to work on at the table.

I’ve made this version a bit trickier by skipping the word bank, so even older kids and adults have to really think.

It’s festive, simple, and just the right mix of learning and fun during the holiday rush.

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Thanksgiving Word Scramble Printable

If your kids are anything like mine, they need something fun (and a little bit challenging) to do while waiting for the big meal. This word scramble printable has become one of our favorite go-to activities, especially because it works for both independent quiet time and group games.

It’s designed for upper elementary and middle schoolers, but adults might find a few of the words trickier than expected too. I didn’t include a word bank, so the clues aren’t obvious, my husband actually took 20 minutes to figure out “sweetcorn” last time!

Use it in your homeschool, classroom, or just around the dinner table. You can print as many copies as you need for personal or classroom use. Scroll to the bottom of the post to grab the free PDF.

Thanksgiving Word Scramble Answers

Here’s the full word list used in the puzzle, just in case you get stuck, or want to check your answers after the game. The printable includes a separate answer sheet so everyone can join in without spoilers.

Words included:

Since there’s no word list on the worksheet itself, this version adds just the right level of challenge, perfect for older kids, teens, and even grown-ups. And if it gets too tricky, the answer key is right there on page two of the printable.

If your kids enjoy this kind of challenge, they’ll probably love our Thanksgiving word search too. It’s another no-prep printable that keeps them engaged while you prep for the big meal.

Adapting the Word Scramble for Different Ages

One thing I love about this Thanksgiving word game is how easy it is to tweak for different age groups.

For younger kids, I usually offer a few clues or even read the scrambled word out loud to help them start thinking phonetically, it’s a great way to build vocabulary without it feeling like school.

For older kids or middle schoolers, setting a timer or turning it into a race adds just enough pressure to make it fun. My son loves trying to beat his own time from last year.

And for teens or adults? Skip the hints and let them tackle it cold. Without a word list, it’s more of a challenge than you’d expect, even my husband gets stumped!

You’ll also love our Thanksgiving trivia game free printable, which is a perfect companion to the word scramble. It’s another fun way to challenge your guests and keep everyone entertained during the holiday!

More Thanksgiving Fun for Kids and Families

If your crew enjoyed the word scramble, here are a few more free Thanksgiving printables we’ve used over the years to keep the holiday fun and low-stress:

• Thanksgiving Scattergories – A great icebreaker! Everyone races to fill in holiday-themed words for each category before the timer runs out. We’ve had some hilarious answers over the years.
• Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt – Perfect for getting kids moving around the house. Ours love following the rhyming clues and racing to the prize at the end.
• Thanksgiving Coloring Pages – Great for little ones who need a calm moment. These printables tell a sweet story about friendship as they color.
• Printable Thanksgiving Bookmarks – A thoughtful little extra. We’ve used these as place cards and tucked them into books we’re gifting to family members.

They’re all free, printable, and easy to set up, just like the Thanksgiving Day word scramble.

Get Your Free Thanksgiving Word Scramble Puzzle Here!

If you don’t see the form below, click here to get the free Thanksgiving scrambled words.

Last Updated on 6 August 2025 by Clare Brown