Finding the right Thanksgiving movie can make the holiday feel even warmer and more meaningful. Whether you’re looking for something fun for young children, inspiring for teenagers, or heartwarming for the whole family, this guide has it all. Here, you’ll find 19 of the best Thanksgiving movies—ranging from animated specials like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving to emotional family favorites such as The Blind Side and The Pursuit of Happyness. Each movie recommendation includes a short explanation, so you can easily choose the perfect film for your family’s holiday movie night.
1. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
Rating: PG | 24 minutes | Apple TV+
Why it’s recommended:
Charlie Brown’s stories always use simple plots to deliver warm and meaningful messages. This short film is light, funny, and helps kids understand that holidays are not just about eating a big meal—they’re about appreciating the people around us. Snoopy preparing dinner is unforgettable and hilarious, making it a perfect feel-good classic for families to watch together.
Source: Apple TV+
2. Sesame Street: A Very Sesame Thanksgiving
TV-Y | 25 minutes | HBO Max
Why it’s recommended:
If your kids love Elmo and Big Bird, they’ll be fully engaged in this episode. It gently introduces Thanksgiving traditions from different cultures and teaches children that there are many ways to express gratitude. It’s a great mix of fun and learning.
Source: HBO Max
3. Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Margaret’s First Thank-You Day
TV-Y | 26 minutes | YouTube
Why it’s recommended:
Daniel Tiger is amazing at teaching life skills in a child’s language. This episode focuses on the importance of saying “thank you.” Kids naturally follow along and learn how to express appreciation, making it a wonderful choice for building manners and emotional awareness.
Source: YouTube
4. Llama Llama: Thanksgiving
TV-Y | 24 minutes | Netflix
Why it’s recommended:
This fun episode, centered around finding a “missing duck,” is full of surprises and laughter. While watching, kids learn about teamwork and community spirit. It’s perfect for families who want something light-hearted and cheerful during the holiday.
Source: Netflix
5. Blue’s Clues & You!: A Blue’s Thanksgiving
TV-Y | 23 minutes | Amazon Prime Video
Why it’s recommended:
Beyond its heartwarming story, this episode inspires a great family activity: creating a “Thankful Journal.” Kids learn how to express gratitude through Josh’s story and can continue the practice after the episode, making Thanksgiving more meaningful.
Source: Amazon Prime Video
6. Arthur: Arthur’s Thanksgiving
TV-Y | 56 minutes | PBS
Why it’s recommended:
This episode is more than a typical comedy. It tells the heartfelt story of Arthur searching for his lost dog, teaching responsibility and reminding children of the importance of family and friends. Emotional and educational—an excellent holiday choice.
Source: PBS
7. Wild Kratts: Happy Turkey Day!
TV-Y | 27 minutes | YouTube
Why it’s recommended:
Perfect for kids who love animals. The Kratt Brothers lead an adventure focusing on turkeys, teaching children about wildlife and the importance of respecting nature—all in a fun, energetic style.
Source: YouTube
8. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Mickey’s Thanks-a-Bunch Day
TV-Y | 23 minutes | Apple TV+
Why it’s recommended:
Mickey always brings joy to the holiday season. This episode combines Thanksgiving with a fun race, keeping kids fully entertained. Themes of teamwork and helping others make it great for family viewing.
Source: Apple TV+
👦 Thanksgiving Movies for Teenagers
9. Instant Family
PG-13 | 1h 58m | Amazon Prime Video
Why it’s recommended:
Not a traditional Thanksgiving movie, but perfect for the holiday. The film beautifully shows that “family isn’t something you’re born into—it’s something you grow together.” The mix of humor and emotional truth helps teens better understand compassion and diverse family structures.
Source: Amazon Prime Video
10. Spider-Man (2002)
PG-13 | 2h 1m | Disney+
Why it’s recommended:
Teens love superhero movies, and the iconic Thanksgiving dinner scene makes this film a nostalgic seasonal pick. It blends action, emotion, and family moments—great for both teens and adults.
Source: Disney+
11. The Prince & Me
PG | 1h 50m | Paramount+
Why it’s recommended:
Perfect for teens who enjoy romantic comedies. The “bring the prince home for Thanksgiving” storyline is sweet, a bit awkward, and relatable. It’s light, fun, and warm—great for cozy holiday viewing.
Source: Paramount+
👨👩👧👦 Thanksgiving Movies for the Whole Family
12. Miracle on 34th Street
PG | 1h 37m | Disney+
Why it’s recommended:
If your family loves jumping into Christmas right after Thanksgiving, this classic is perfect. It begins with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, instantly giving a festive vibe. Heartwarming and timeless—a multigenerational favorite.
Source: Disney+
13. The Santa Clause
PG | 1h 38m | Disney+
Why it’s recommended:
Not strictly a Thanksgiving movie, but the burnt turkey scene captures the chaos of holiday cooking perfectly. It’s funny, warm, and a great way for kids to start feeling the Christmas spirit early.
Source: Disney+
14. Paul Blart: Mall Cop
PG | 1h 30m | Starz
Why it’s recommended:
If you want to avoid real-life Black Friday madness but still want a good laugh, this movie is ideal. Silly, fun, and perfect for relaxing after a big meal.
Source: Starz
15. Fantastic Mr. Fox
PG | 1h 28m | Disney+
Why it’s recommended:
Wes Anderson’s signature style paired with cozy orange-and-brown autumn colors creates the perfect Thanksgiving mood. The film explores family, responsibility, and choices—with humor and heart. A great all-ages pick.
Source: Disney+
16. Mrs. Doubtfire
PG-13 | 2h 5m | Disney+
Why it’s recommended:
A hilarious yet touching classic. The Thanksgiving meal disaster scene especially resonates with parents everywhere. Funny and meaningful, it reminds families that love and presence are the greatest gifts.
Source: Disney+
17. Home Alone
PG | 1h 44m | Disney+
Why it’s recommended:
A holiday must-watch. Perfectly bridges Thanksgiving and Christmas. Kids enjoy the fun, adults enjoy the nostalgia—it’s ideal for family movie night.
Source: Disney+
18. The Blind Side
PG-13 | 2h 3m | Amazon Prime Video / Apple TV+
Why it’s recommended:
Based on a true story and filled with hope. The Thanksgiving dinner scene is unforgettable and highlights the real meaning of “family.” A powerful and heartwarming movie for the holiday.
Source: Amazon Prime Video / Apple TV+
19. The Pursuit of Happyness
PG-13 | 1h 55m | Amazon Prime Video / Apple TV+
Why it’s recommended:
A perfect closing movie for Thanksgiving Day. It reminds us that gratitude isn’t only for good times—it’s about finding hope even in hardship. Inspiring and deeply moving, especially when watched as a family.
Source: Amazon Prime Video / Apple TV+
