Thanksgiving is a holiday focused around gratitude and there is so much to be thankful for this time of year. Spending time with your family and friends, enjoying a delicious meal and maybe even the football game is a fantastic way to celebrate Thanksgiving and all you have to be thankful for.

One of the most important parts of Thanksgiving though, are the traditions you create with your friends and family. If you are looking for new Thanksgiving traditions to try with your family this year, there are many exciting things you can do, all you have to do is get creative and open your mind.

Thanksgiving Traditions to Try with Your Family

Make a Gratitude Jar

Leave a pen and a stack of note cards in a main spot of your home starting a few weeks prior to Thanksgiving. Then, encourage all your family members to add notes to the jar every time they feel grateful for something. Even if it’s something as simple as being grateful for someone helping them with their homework, or someone doing an extra chore, add it to the jar. When the time comes to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner, read each note aloud.

Let the Kids Help Prepare Dinner

If you are hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year, get the kids in the kitchen to help you prep, cook and bake. This is a great way to make Thanksgiving a truly family filled experience. Whether they taste test the gravy, help wash the vegetables or season the turkey, your kids will enjoy being part of the preparations, giving them a sense of accomplishment every year. Help your kids create this awesome Thanksgiving craft.

Create a Family Thanksgiving Cookbook

Have your guests bring their favourite recipes to add to the cookbook and sit down together to compile them after your big dinner. This is a fantastic way to have everyone in the family provide their input and add their favourite dishes. We love making cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole and our absolute favourite is our turkey soup!

Go on a Family Nature Walk

If the weather permits, have everyone head out after dinner for a family nature walk. Not only will this be a great way for the kids to get some of their energy out and help everyone digest the large meal they just ate, but it’s a great way to bond. Collect leaves and pinecones for crafts on the walk and when you return home you can even do a quick Thanksgiving DIY project like this DIY necklace organizer or wooden sign.

Involve Distant Family

While it isn’t always possible for the entire family to gather in one place on Thanksgiving, that doesn’t mean that you can’t involve those that live far away. Make it a point to video call your distant family before dinner. You can even involve them in the process of going around the table to say what they are grateful for.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of year for traditions both new and old. Create some new family Thanksgiving traditions this year and you will be grateful that you did.

Wishing you and your family all the best for a fantastic holiday!