10 Thanksgiving family games and puzzles to keep everyone entertained this holiday

Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table, savoring delicious food, and reconnecting with loved ones—but after the Thanksgiving feast has been devoured and the dishes cleared, what better way to keep the festivities going than with some family-friendly games? Whether you’re looking for a little friendly competition, a way to get everyone laughing, or puzzles to calm post-dinner chaos, these Thanksgiving activities will deliver hours of fun for every age group.

Skip the classics like Monopoly or Scrabble this year and try something fresh and exciting. From quick-thinking card games to creative puzzles, these picks are perfect for all ages and can turn your Turkey Day into a memory-filled game night.

Related: ‘Would you rather?’ and other fun games to play in the car

Best Thanksgiving family games for all ages

$26.99

With 60 pieces and seven challenge cards, little tykes will learn to solve each puzzle using the “challenge” side of the card and then discover the solution on the reverse side. It’s great for developing problem-solving skills.

Ages: 3-7

$24.95

All you need for a night of fun is your phone. Respond to challenges by finding things like messages or photos on your smartphone, or taking selfies with the camera. It’s also the perfect ice breaker for large crowds.

Ages: 13+

$22.02

Fans of the popular YouTube channel The Odd 1s Out will be eager to catch Harry before he and his friends are pulled into the lull of the lamp (bug zapper). Play it smart and try to collect certain combinations of cards to get an edge in the game.

Ages: 6+

$47.99

For families who love strategy and creativity, Catan is a must-try classic. Perfect for ages 10 and up, this game includes 19 hexagonal terrain tiles, 20 wooden settlements, and 60 wooden roads (plus many more pieces). Gather around and get ready to build your own thriving civilization—endless fun and adventure await!

$65.99

The most complex game on the list, Scythe, is perfect for teens 14+ and serious board game enthusiasts. After playing it with my teenager, I can confirm it’s a true time investment—but well worth it for dedicated strategists. Set in an alternate 1920s Europe, players control factions battling for dominance while defending their territories. With a playtime of a few hours, settle in, strategize, and prepare to conquer—it’s a game where only the boldest can rule the world!

$9.84

Looking for a fast-paced card game that’s quick to learn and guaranteed to spark laughter? Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza delivers exactly that (and yes, it’s as funny as it sounds). Perfect for ages 8 and up, it’s the ultimate pick for light-hearted, laugh-out-loud family fun!

These Thanksgiving family games and puzzles will turn your holiday into an unforgettable day of fun, laughter, and connection. With options for every age group, you can keep everyone entertained and happy, long after the pumpkin pie is gone.

Related: 21 board and card games for the ultimate family game night

Pro tips for making family game time a Thanksgiving tradition

1. Set up a Game Station: Create a designated space for games and puzzles, so everyone knows where to gather post-dinner.
2. Mix It Up: Choose games that cater to different age groups, ensuring everyone from toddlers to grandparents can participate. Classic picks like Thanksgiving bingo or Thanksgiving charades can be great crowd-pleasers.
3. Break Out Snacks: Keep the Thanksgiving spirit going with pie slices, sweet potato fries, popcorn, or cider while you play.

The bottom line

Thanksgiving is about more than the Macy Thanksgiving Day Parade or the Thanksgiving feast—it’s about the connections that bring us closer. Whether it’s a lively round of Thanksgiving trivia, a heartfelt gratitude game, or classic fun like pumpkin tic tac toe, these Thanksgiving-themed activities turn simple moments into lasting memories. This year, let fun Thanksgiving games and laughter-filled traditions like a turkey bowl or a Thanksgiving family feud remind you of the joy of being together.