After the Meal Is Prime Time for Family Games
Once the plates are cleared, there's a window before everyone scatters to naps and football — and that window is exactly when a good group game creates the kind of memory that outlasts the meal itself.
Hide the Wishbone
A simple game that kids go absolutely nuts over: hide the turkey's wishbone somewhere in the house and let the kids search for it. Whoever finds it picks someone to break it with them — the person who gets the bigger half makes a wish, and tradition says they both get good luck for the year. For younger kids, limit the search to one room, then expand it as they get older.
Pin the Feather on the Turkey
A Thanksgiving twist on pin-the-tail: cut out a paper turkey, make paper feathers, and use painter's tape and a blindfold. Players get spun around three times, then try to place their feather as close to the turkey's body as possible. It works for every age — adults tend to enjoy watching almost as much as playing — and the point really isn't winning, it's the laughs along the way.
Host a Post-Thanksgiving Gift Exchange
For family that won't all be together again at Christmas, a Secret Santa-style exchange set up a month in advance is a natural fit for the post-dinner window. Have everyone build a wishlist and get matched ahead of time, then open gifts together after the meal — a White Elephant format works especially well here since it's built for group opening.
More Ways to Fill the Afternoon
Card games, a family trivia round built from shared memories, or a simple charades game all work in a pinch if you want more options beyond the two above. The common thread across all of these: low setup, high inclusivity, and nothing that requires anyone to leave the table for long.
The Point Isn't the Nap
A good post-dinner game does more for the day than a couch nap ever will — it's a small, low-effort way to make sure the holiday's memories aren't just about the food.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's a good Thanksgiving game for kids after dinner?
Hide the Wishbone is a reliable favorite — hide the turkey's wishbone somewhere in the house, let kids search for it, and have the finder pick someone to break it with them for good luck. Limit the search area for younger kids and expand it as they get older.
Is there a Thanksgiving version of a classic party game?
Pin the Feather on the Turkey is a Thanksgiving twist on pin-the-tail: players are blindfolded, spun around, and try to place a paper feather closest to a turkey cutout. It works for every age and isn't really about winning.
Can you run a gift exchange as part of Thanksgiving?
Yes — a post-Thanksgiving gift exchange works well for family that won't all be together at Christmas. Set it up online a month ahead so everyone can build a wishlist and get matched before the holiday.
