34 Best Thanksgiving Movies & Series to Stream In 2025
34 Best Thanksgiving Movies & Series to Stream In 2025
I love watching holiday movies with my kids, they’re still little, which makes holidays feel extra magical. Every celebration is a big deal in their world, and honestly, that makes it a big deal in mine too.
For me, the Thanksgiving holiday is all about slowing down, soaking up family time, and leaning into the cozy moments of the holiday season. With the cooler temps here in Chicago, there’s nothing better than curling up under a blanket, snacks in hand, and turning on a great movie.
If you’re anything like me, you know that finding the right movie can take longer than actually watching one (especially with kids). That’s why I pulled together this go-to list of my favorite family-friendly Thanksgiving movies, series, and TV specials, so you can skip the scrolling, press play, and make movie night part of your new Thanksgiving tradition.
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Best Thanksgiving Movies to Watch
Okay, so not every movie on this list is technically about Thanksgiving, but they all feel like it. Many of these Thanksgiving-themed films feature a memorable Thanksgiving scene or even a full Thanksgiving meal, capturing that magical mix of laughter, chaos, and love that happens around the dinner table every year.
You know, the kind of movie that makes you want to curl up with a blanket, grab some leftovers, and just enjoy spending time with your favorite people. These are the perfect Thanksgiving movies to bring the whole family together. They’re heartwarming stories that celebrate gratitude, love, and connection. These movies capture all the cozy, grateful, feel-good vibes that make this season so special. Trust me, there’s something here for everyone, and they’re total crowd-pleasers for your next movie night.
1. Home Team
Since Thanksgiving and football go hand in hand, this one just had to make the list. When a famous NFL coach (played by Kevin James) gets suspended from the league, he heads home and ends up coaching his son’s middle school football team. It’s funny, heartwarming, and all about second chances—plus, it’s the perfect pick if watching the Thanksgiving Day game is one of your favorite traditions. It’s a good film to watch during the holiday season, especially while everyone’s still lingering around after the turkey dinner.
2. The Willoughbys
If you’re looking for something the whole family can enjoy, The Willoughbys is such a sweet pick. It follows the Willoughby kids on a wild, heartwarming adventure that totally feels like a heartwarming classic, reminding us to cherish quality time with family. It’s funny, a little quirky, and full of those tender moments that totally tug at your heartstrings—perfect for a cozy Thanksgiving watch.
3. Fatherhood
Get ready for all the feels with this one. Fatherhood stars Kevin Hart as a single dad learning how to raise his daughter after an unexpected loss. It’s a family drama that’s heartfelt, funny in the most real way, and a beautiful reminder that the most important thing in life is love, family, and community.
4. Otherhood
This one’s perfect for after the kids are asleep and you’re winding down from all the Thanksgiving chaos. Otherhood is a funny and relatable comedy about three moms who decide to surprise their grown sons in New York for the weekend. It’s lighthearted, charming, and totally hits home if you’ve ever missed your kids a little extra after a big family Thanksgiving.
5. Vivo
Vivo is one of those feel-good films that the whole family will love. It’s packed with music, adventure, and heart, following a singing kinkajou on a mission that celebrates love, courage, and connection. You’ll be dancing, singing along, and maybe even tearing up a little by the end. It’s a great reminder that anything is possible with family.
6. Yes Day
If your family could use a little extra fun (and maybe a break from saying “no” all the time), Yes Day is the perfect pick. Starring Jennifer Garner and Edgar Ramirez, this movie is all about loosening up and saying “yes” to everything for one full day. It’s funny, chaotic in the best way, and might just inspire you to plan your own family “Yes Day.”
7. Holidate
Trust me, this one will quickly become your personal favorite romantic comedy of the season. Holidate, starring Emma Roberts, is a hilarious and super relatable story about the pressure to have it all together during family gatherings. It’s witty, a little chaotic, and just the right mix of sweet and funny. Perfect for when you need a laugh after all the Thanksgiving madness.
8. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
Based on a popular book, this one totally captures the Thanksgiving spirit with its theme of unexpected friendships forming between a group of strangers. It’s heartfelt, cozy, and such a good reminder to always be kind to others.
9. A Family Affair
Would it really be a Thanksgiving movie list without a few romantic comedies about messy families? A Family Affair, starring Zac Efron and Nicole Kidman, is hilarious, awkward in the best way, and full of those “yep, that’s my family” moments we all know too well.
10. Big Daddy
Adam Sandler shines in this funny, feel-good movie about a slacker who suddenly finds himself taking care of a 5-year-old. It’s chaotic, sweet, and a great reminder that family isn’t perfect, but that’s exactly what makes it so special.
11. Paul Blart, Mall Cop
If you’re one of those Black Friday shoppers who loves the thrill of the hunt, this one’s for you. Kevin James stars as a mall security guard who finds himself in way over his head when a group of thieves targets the mall. It’s goofy, action-packed fun for everyone.
12. Eat, Pray, Love
Good food and a great love story? Count me in. Eat, Pray, Love, starring Julia Roberts, follows a woman who travels the world in search of herself and true happiness. It’s inspiring, heartfelt, and the perfect watch for anyone craving a little soul food this Thanksgiving.
13. The Meyerowitz Stories
A bit more edgy than the rest, this Netflix original with Ben Stiller is all about family dynamics, connection, and forgiveness. It’s the kind of film that makes you laugh one minute and reflect the next, which fits right into the spirit of Thanksgiving.
14. Benji
Who can resist a movie with a sweet dog and a big heart? Benji tells the story of a stray pup who brings a broken family back together through simple acts of kindness. It’s the kind of heartwarming story that makes you want to hug your pets a little tighter.
15. Tyler Perry's A Madea Homecoming
You know those big family gatherings where everything goes sideways but everyone still ends up laughing? That’s A Madea Homecoming in a nutshell. Tyler Perry nails the humor and chaos that make family holidays unforgettable.
16. The Princess Switch
Vanessa Hudgens stars in this sweet, family-friendly film about a baker and a princess-to-be who swap lives because they look exactly alike. It’s lighthearted, festive, and a perfect reminder to be grateful for what you already have.
17. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
You can’t talk about Thanksgiving movies without mentioning this classic. John Candy and Steve Martin team up for a hilarious road trip full of mishaps and heart. It’s funny, chaotic, and completely captures the spirit of the season.
18. Free Birds
What’s Thanksgiving without a turkey story? Free Birds is a laugh-out-loud animated movie starring Owen Wilson and Woody Harrelson as two turkeys who travel back in time to try to stop Thanksgiving as we know it. It’s silly, clever, and great for kids and adults alike.
19. Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
No Thanksgiving is complete without Charlie Brown and the gang. Follow along as he gets ready for Thanksgiving dinner with Snoopy, Peppermint Patty, and friends in this nostalgic classic. It’s warm, simple, and as comforting as pumpkin pie.
Fans of the Peanuts holiday specials will love revisiting this one right after It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, keeping the cozy holiday magic going from Halloween through Thanksgiving.
20. The Blind Side
If you’re looking for something that really hits the heart, The Blind Side is it. Starring Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, and Quinton Aaron, it tells the true story of love, generosity, and second chances. Between the football scenes and family moments, it’s full of gratitude and all the fall feels.
21. The Family Stone
This one is messy, funny, and emotional in the best possible way. The Family Stone is all about a family reunion full of love, laughter, and complicated dynamics. It’s heartfelt and honest, and chances are you’ll see a little of your own family in it.
22. Jim Henson's Turkey Hollow
If you want something fun for the whole family, Jim Henson’s Turkey Hollow is a must. It’s whimsical, kid-friendly, and packed with that classic Jim Henson magic. The main characters learn about the power of connection in a heartwarming story that’s perfect for young viewers.
23. Home Alone
Sure, it’s technically a Christmas movie, but Home Alone totally works for Thanksgiving too. It’s funny, chaotic, and full of heart as Kevin learns what family really means. It’s one of those great movies that never gets old, especially for older kids.
24. Little Women (2019)
Little Women might not scream “Thanksgiving,” but it’s got all the cozy, heartfelt vibes of the season. The 2019 version is beautifully done, with themes of love, family, and sacrifice that fit perfectly for fall. It’s warm, emotional, and perfect for a quiet night in.
25. Thanksgiving
Don’t let the title fool you. This one’s not your typical holiday flick. Set in Plymouth, Massachusetts, Thanksgiving is a horror movie made for anyone still hanging onto spooky season. It’s thrilling, creepy, and a fun twist for those who like their turkey with a side of suspense.
26. Pieces of April
If you’re in the mood for something real and a little messy, Pieces of April hits the spot. It’s about a young woman hosting her first Thanksgiving dinner in her tiny New York apartment while trying to reconnect with her family. It’s honest, emotional, and full of humor — the perfect mix of chaos and warmth that makes it a great Thanksgiving movie for grown-ups.
Best Thanksgiving Series and TV Specials
TV Series
Once the dishes are done and the pie plates are empty, it’s officially binge time. These series are my go-tos for that post-Thanksgiving chill. They’re heartfelt, comforting, and full of the kind of warmth we love this time of year.
27. Gilmore Girls
If you’ve never watched Gilmore Girls, you are in for such a treat. This sweet, witty series follows a single mom and her teenage daughter as they navigate life in a charming small town in Connecticut. Between the coffee, the quick banter, and all that beautiful fall scenery, it’s no wonder people call it the ultimate “fall comfort show.” Just a heads-up—you’ll be hooked fast.
28. Virgin River
Keeping with the small-town theme, Virgin River follows a nurse who leaves the big city behind for a quieter life in Northern California. What she finds is a community full of love, friendship, and second chances. It’s heartfelt, peaceful, and gives all the warm, fuzzy feels that make it a perfect fall binge.
29. Sweet Magnolias
I’m sensing a pattern here—small towns just do cozy storytelling right. Sweet Magnolias follows a tight-knit group of lifelong friends in Georgia as they navigate everything from heartbreak and new love to raising kids and finding balance. It’s honest, uplifting, and feels like a warm hug in show form.
30. The Great British Baking Show
If your favorite part of Thanksgiving is the dessert table, this one’s for you. The Great British Baking Show is pure comfort TV, filled with friendly competition, creative desserts, and some of the most soothing energy you’ll find on Netflix. Fair warning: you’ll want to bake something immediately after watching.
TV Specials:
31. Garfield’s Thanksgiving
This animated special is pure nostalgia. Garfield’s Thanksgiving follows everyone’s favorite lasagna-loving cat as he faces his toughest challenge yet — helping Jon cook Thanksgiving dinner without eating it all first. It’s silly, sweet, and perfect for family movie night with young viewers.
32. Arthur Thanksgiving
If you have little ones at home, Arthur Thanksgiving is a must-watch. This cute special follows Arthur as he plans the perfect Thanksgiving parade — until his dog Pal runs away. It’s full of gentle humor, kindness, and teamwork, making it one of the best kid-friendly Thanksgiving movies to enjoy during the Thanksgiving break.
33. Looney Tunes Thanksgiving
For something classic and funny, Looney Tunes Thanksgiving brings all your favorite characters together for a festive collection of cartoon shorts. Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and the gang serve up laughs, slapstick chaos, and plenty of holiday spirit. It’s perfect for keeping the whole family entertained after the Thanksgiving feast.
34. Daffy Duck’s Thanks-for-Giving Special
This vintage gem is a throwback worth revisiting. Daffy Duck’s Thanks-for-Giving Special is full of fun, clever moments as Daffy looks back on his best adventures and tries to convince the studio to make him a star. It’s silly, nostalgic, and a fun pick to watch with different families during the Thanksgiving weekend.
Taking Time for Gratitude
Thanksgiving movies and shows are more than just something to watch after dinner. They’re a little reminder of what this season is all about: slowing down, being thankful, and spending time with the people you love. These Thanksgiving films beautifully capture the feeling of gratitude and togetherness that defines the season.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family movie night, a full Thanksgiving movie marathon, or just looking for something fun to watch with the kids, there are plenty of kid-friendly Thanksgiving movies and heartwarming favorites to make your Thanksgiving weekend extra special.
So grab your favorite blanket, a slice of leftover pumpkin pie, and settle in with your favorite people. It’s the perfect way to unwind over the Thanksgiving break, have a great time, and soak in all the cozy, grateful vibes of the season.
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Hi, I’m Jen!
Hi, I’m Jen, your perpetually optimistic, fun-loving, witty friend. When I’m not working at The Marketing Greenhouse, you can find me gardening in the sun, playing games with my kids or creating content that inspires people to try new things and be the best version of themselves.
