Thanksgiving is more than a time for food and family. Thanksgiving activities for students offer a wonderful opportunity to bring fun, creativity, and gratitude into the classroom. Through hands-on crafts, science experiments, writing prompts, and digital projects, learners of all ages can celebrate the season in meaningful ways. Let’s explore engaging ideas that inspire teamwork, thankfulness, and joyful learning for every grade level.
Thanksgiving activities for elementary students
Young learners love colorful, creative activities that spark curiosity. These Thanksgiving activities for elementary students help children explore gratitude, build skills, and celebrate the season through fun and play.
1. Thankful turkey craft
This simple Thanksgiving craft helps kids reflect on gratitude. Each student creates a paper turkey and writes something they are thankful for on every feather.
Materials needed:
- Colored paper (brown, orange, yellow, red)
- Scissors and glue sticks
- Markers or crayons
- Googly eyes
Instructions:
- Cut a large brown circle for the turkey’s body and a smaller one for the head.
- Cut paper feathers in various colors.
- On each feather, have students write one thing they’re thankful for.
- Glue the feathers behind the body and attach the head and eyes.
- Display the finished turkeys on a classroom gratitude wall.
2. Leaf turkey collage
A creative mix of art and nature, this activity lets kids use real autumn leaves to make a colorful turkey collage.
Materials needed:
- Dried fall leaves
- Paper (construction or cardstock)
- Glue sticks
- Scissors
- Markers
Instructions:
- Take students outside to collect fallen leaves of different shapes and colors.
- Flatten the leaves by placing them under a book for a few minutes.
- Draw or cut out a simple turkey body shape.
- Arrange the leaves around the body to form feathers, then glue them down.
- Add eyes, beak, and feet with markers or paper cutouts.
3. No-bake pumpkin pie recipe
A delicious and educational activity where students follow a simple recipe to make mini pumpkin pies while learning to measure ingredients.
Materials needed:
- Instant pudding mix (pumpkin flavor if available)
- Milk
- Graham cracker crusts or cups
- Whipped cream
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions:
- Have students read the recipe aloud together.
- Measure milk and pudding mix according to the directions.
- Stir until thick, then spoon into small crusts or cups.
- Chill for 10 – 15 minutes, then top with whipped cream.
- Enjoy the treat while discussing which foods are traditional at Thanksgiving.
4. Dancing corn science experiment
Science meets fun as students make popcorn kernels “dance” in a fizzy reaction between vinegar and baking soda.
Materials needed:
- Clear glass jars
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Popcorn kernels
- Measuring spoons
Instructions:
- Fill the jar halfway with water and add 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
- Drop in a few popcorn kernels.
- Pour in vinegar and observe the reaction.
- Watch as the kernels rise and fall like they’re dancing.
- Discuss the science behind carbon dioxide bubbles and buoyancy.
5. Build a thankful balloon parade
Inspired by the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, students design and create their own mini “thankful balloons” to celebrate gratitude, teamwork, and creativity.
Materials needed:
- Balloons (any color or size)
- Permanent markers
- String or ribbon
- Paper, tape, and scissors
- Optional: small cardboard boxes or straws for “parade floats”
Instructions:
- Show students pictures or a short video clip of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade for inspiration.
- Ask each student (or group) to design a “thankful balloon” that represents something or someone they’re grateful for, such as a family member, a pet, or even a favorite book character.
- Students decorate balloons using markers, paper cutouts, and tape to bring their ideas to life.
- Attach string or ribbon to the balloons and create a classroom “mini parade” by walking their balloons around the room or hallway.
- End by asking each student to share what their balloon represents and why they chose it.
6. Thanksgiving word scramble
A fun literacy activity that builds spelling and vocabulary with a Thanksgiving twist.
Materials needed:
- Printable Thanksgiving word scramble sheets
- Pencils or crayons
Instructions:
- Hand out word scramble sheets with jumbled Thanksgiving words.
- Give students time to decode each one (e.g., “KETURY” → “TURKEY”).
- Review answers as a class.
- For an extra challenge, have students use each word in a sentence or story.
A fun literacy activity that builds spelling and vocabulary with a Thanksgiving twist. Try it here: Thanksgiving Word Scramble Worksheet
7. Cornucopia coloring page
Kids learn about abundance and harvest traditions through art by decorating a classic cornucopia.
Materials needed:
- Printable cornucopia worksheets
- Crayons or colored pencils
- Labels or sticky notes
Instructions:
- Hand out a cornucopia outline filled with fruits and vegetables.
- Have students color each item carefully.
- Label the foods and discuss which ones are harvested in fall.
- Display the colorful cornucopias around the classroom.
Kids learn about abundance and harvest traditions through art by decorating a classic cornucopia. Explore it here: Thanksgiving Cornucopia Coloring Page
8. Thanksgiving bingo
An energetic classroom game to reinforce Thanksgiving vocabulary while adding festive fun.
Materials needed:
- Printable Bingo cards with Thanksgiving pictures
- Small candies, buttons, or mini erasers as markers
- A bowl with picture cards
Instructions:
- Distribute Bingo cards to each student.
- Call out or show each Thanksgiving image.
- Students mark the matching pictures on their cards.
- The first to get five in a row shouts “Bingo!” and wins a small prize.
An energetic classroom game to reinforce Thanksgiving vocabulary while adding festive fun. Play it here: Thanksgiving Bingo Worksheet
9. Story time: “Turkey trouble”
A lively reading session that combines listening and imagination, based on the beloved story by Wendi Silvano.
Materials needed:
- Book Turkey Trouble by Wendi Silvano
- Paper and crayons
Instructions:
- Read Turkey Trouble aloud to the class.
- Discuss how the turkey disguised himself to stay safe.
- Ask students to draw or write how they would disguise their own turkey.
- Share drawings and ideas with the class for extra laughter.
10. Class gratitude song or poem
Wrap up the Thanksgiving theme with a creative group performance celebrating thankfulness.
Materials needed:
- Chart paper or whiteboard
- Markers
- Optional: simple instruments like tambourines or shakers
Instructions:
- Brainstorm things students are thankful for as a class.
- Turn those ideas into simple rhyming lines or a short song.
- Let students decorate the lyrics on paper.
- Perform together as a classroom Thanksgiving celebration.
Checkout more thanksgiving activities for preschoolers!
Thanksgiving activities for middle school students
Middle schoolers thrive on creativity and teamwork. These Thanksgiving activities for middle school students let them explore history, culture, and gratitude in fun, engaging ways.
11. Explore native lands project
This research project helps students understand the Indigenous history of their area and reflect on Native American contributions and traditions.
Materials needed:
- Computers or tablets with internet access
- Paper or digital slides for presentations
Instructions:
- Visit native-land.ca and enter your school’s ZIP code to find which tribes originally lived there.
- Have students research the tribe’s lifestyle, food, and stories.
- Create short written or slide presentations to share findings.
- Encourage respectful discussion on cultural preservation and historical understanding.
12. Design a Macy’s Parade balloon
This art-meets-technology activity lets students create their own balloon design for the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Materials needed:
- Google Slides, Canva, or PowerPoint
- Internet access
- Optional: paper and colored pencils for sketching
Instructions:
- Show photos or videos of the Macy’s Parade for inspiration.
- Ask students to design a new parade balloon that represents gratitude, family, or kindness.
- Add a short caption explaining what their design symbolizes and why they chose it.
- Display the finished designs on a classroom slideshow or bulletin board.
13. Digital gratitude journal
Encourage digital creativity while building empathy with a shared gratitude journal.
Materials needed:
- Google Docs or Padlet
- Internet-connected devices
- Optional: classroom projector
Instructions:
- Create a shared online document or Padlet board.
- Have each student add daily or weekly gratitude entries including text, photos, or drawings.
- Discuss patterns: what are students most thankful for?
- End the week with a reflection on how gratitude improves well-being and classroom spirit.
14. Thanksgiving kindness wall
A modern classroom activity that blends gratitude, creativity, and community spirit, helping students express appreciation in both traditional and digital ways.
Materials needed:
- Sticky notes or small paper cards
- Markers or pens
- Poster board or classroom wall space
- (Optional) Padlet or Jamboard for a digital version
Instructions:
- Start a class discussion about how small acts of kindness can make a big difference, especially in a world where people often connect online.
- Create a “Kindness Wall” on a section of your classroom wall or on a digital board.
- Ask each student to write at least one message of thanks or a kind note to someone in the class, school, or community (for example: “Thank you for helping me with homework” or “I appreciate your positive energy”).
- Encourage students to decorate their notes with small drawings or stickers.
- End the week by reading some of the messages together and reflecting on how kindness shapes a happier classroom.
15. Thanksgiving gratitude chain
A simple yet powerful classroom activity that helps students visualize how gratitude connects everyone in the community.
Materials needed:
- Colored paper (cut into strips)
- Scissors, glue, or stapler
- Markers or pens
Instructions:
- Give each student several paper strips in different fall colors (orange, yellow, red, brown).
- Ask them to write one thing they are thankful for on each strip. It could be a person, a memory, or something simple like “music” or “friendship.”
- When finished, connect all the strips to form a long “Gratitude Chain.”
- Hang the chain around the classroom or hallway to symbolize how gratitude links everyone together.
- End with a short reflection: how small words of thanks can create a strong, connected classroom community.
16. Pumpkin pie fractions activity
Turn math into a tasty concept review with pumpkin pie-themed fraction fun.
Materials needed:
- Play-Doh or colored paper circles
- Plastic knives or scissors
- Fraction cards (½, ⅓, ¼, etc.)
Instructions:
- Give each group a “pie” made of Play-Doh or paper.
- Draw or cut slices based on the fraction cards they draw.
- Have students discuss how many equal pieces make up a whole.
- Connect fractions to real-world concepts like recipe measurements.
17. Thanksgiving gratitude jar
A simple and meaningful classroom activity that helps students express thankfulness every day while creating a warm Thanksgiving atmosphere.
Materials needed:
- A large clear jar, box, or container
- Small paper slips or note cards
- Pens or markers
- Fall decorations (leaves, ribbon, labels)
Instructions:
- Place an empty jar in the classroom labeled “Our Gratitude Jar.”
- Every student writes one thing they’re thankful for on a slip of paper each day (it can be a person, a feeling, or something small like “sunny mornings” or “fun group projects”).
- Students fold their notes and put them into the jar.
- Decorate the jar together with fall-themed colors (orange, yellow, red).
- At the end of the week, open the jar and take turns reading some of the notes aloud, celebrating the class’s shared gratitude.
18. Thanksgiving trivia game
Test students’ knowledge of Thanksgiving with a fun, team-based trivia competition.
Materials needed:
- Printable trivia questions
- Sticky notes or whiteboards for answers
- Small prizes (optional)
Instructions:
- Divide the class into small groups and give each group answer sheets.
- Read each trivia question aloud and give teams one minute to discuss.
- Award one point per correct answer.
- Celebrate the winning team and review fun facts together.
19. Build a turkey escape story
A creative writing exercise that turns humor and imagination into storytelling fun.
Materials needed:
- Paper or Google Docs
- Writing prompts (e.g., “You are a turkey trying to escape Thanksgiving dinner…”)
- Colored pencils for illustrations
Instructions:
- Introduce the prompt and brainstorm escape ideas as a class.
- Have students write short, funny stories about their turkey’s plan.
- Encourage them to add drawings or comic strips.
- Share stories aloud for a festive, laughter-filled classroom moment.
20. Thanksgiving table talk cards
A thoughtful and interactive classroom activity where students create conversation cards to inspire meaningful discussions about gratitude, family, and kindness.
Materials needed:
- Colored cardstock or paper
- Scissors, markers, pens
- Jar or box for storing cards
Instructions:
- Begin with a short discussion about the importance of talking and sharing gratitude during Thanksgiving.
- Explain that each student will design 2 – 3 “table talk” cards with Thanksgiving-themed questions or prompts (for example:
“What are you most thankful for this year?”
“Who has made your life better and why?”
“If you could invite anyone to Thanksgiving dinner, who would it be?”).
- Let students decorate their cards with small drawings or autumn patterns.
- Collect all cards in a “Thanksgiving Talk Jar.”
- End the activity by having students draw random cards and discuss their answers in pairs or small groups.
Thanksgiving activities for high school students
For high school students, Thanksgiving offers a chance to connect lessons with real life. These activities invite them to think critically, express gratitude in personal ways, and explore the holiday’s deeper meaning.
21. The “First Thanksgiving” perspective essay
Encourage students to explore multiple perspectives of the first Thanksgiving and analyze how history is remembered and retold.
Materials needed:
- Access to online research sources (e.g., Smithsonian, National Geographic)
- Paper or Google Docs for essay writing
- Projector or whiteboard for discussion notes
Instructions:
- Begin with a short class discussion on how Thanksgiving is traditionally portrayed.
- Show articles or videos highlighting Indigenous perspectives.
- Ask students to write an essay comparing different viewpoints.
- End with a reflection on how understanding diverse stories deepens empathy.
22. Create a digital thankful wall
Students collaborate on a shared digital gratitude mural, combining creativity and technology.
Materials needed:
- Padlet, Canva, or Google Slides
- Computers or tablets
- Internet access
Instructions:
- Create a shared Padlet or digital board for the class.
- Ask students to upload photos, quotes, or short videos expressing gratitude.
- Encourage them to comment on classmates’ posts to foster connection.
- Present the completed wall as part of a Thanksgiving celebration.
23. Thanksgiving food drive project
A real-world service project that promotes empathy, leadership, and teamwork.
Materials needed:
- Donation boxes or bins
- Posters for promotion
- List of local shelters or food banks
Instructions:
- Divide the class into committees for collecting, sorting, and promoting donations.
- Create posters and social media posts to raise awareness.
- Schedule delivery of collected items to a local organization.
- Debrief as a group, discussing how helping others reflects the spirit of Thanksgiving.
24. Thanksgiving poetry slam
A creative writing activity where students express gratitude through poetry and performance.
Materials needed:
- Notebooks or Google Docs
- Optional: microphone or classroom speaker
- Rubric for judging or peer feedback
Instructions:
- Introduce the concept of six-word poems and free-verse poetry.
- Ask students to write about family, gratitude, or home.
- Host an informal poetry reading session or “poetry slam.”
- Applaud all participants and discuss how writing can express appreciation.
25. Tech-giving design challenge
Students merge art and technology to promote gratitude and inclusion through digital media.
Materials needed:
- Canva, Adobe Express, or AI design tools
- Computers with internet access
- Optional: projector for presentation
Instructions:
- Assign students to design a poster, infographic, or short video with a Thanksgiving theme.
- Encourage themes like kindness, cultural awareness, and giving back.
- Display digital designs on classroom screens or social media.
- Have students vote for the most inspiring message.
26. Historical timeline research
Students create interactive timelines to visualize the evolution of Thanksgiving traditions.
Materials needed:
- Timeline tools (Canva, Google Slides, or TimelineJS)
- Internet-connected devices
- Historical sources or articles
Instructions:
- Divide students into small groups and assign each a time period.
- Research significant events shaping Thanksgiving, from 1621 to modern times.
- Add images, quotes, and short explanations to a shared timeline.
- Present the final interactive timeline to the class.
27. Gratitude letters to teachers or mentors
A heartfelt writing activity that helps students practice appreciation and reflection.
Materials needed:
- Stationery or digital templates
- Pens or computers
- Envelopes (optional)
Instructions:
- Ask students to think of a teacher, mentor, or coach who made a difference.
- Write a personal letter expressing thanks and specific memories.
- Allow students to hand-deliver or email their letters.
- Reflect as a class on how gratitude impacts relationships.
28. Thanksgiving documentary review
Students critically analyze a documentary to explore modern perspectives on Thanksgiving.
Materials needed:
- Projector or screen
- Selected documentary (e.g., “The Real Story of Thanksgiving”)
- Reflection worksheet
Instructions:
- Watch the documentary together or assign it as homework.
- Take notes on differing viewpoints and historical accuracy.
- Discuss how media influences public understanding of history.
- Write short reviews summarizing key takeaways and personal insights.
29. Thanksgiving recipe exchange poster
Students design creative posters to share their favorite family Thanksgiving recipes, real or reimagined, connecting food, culture, and storytelling in a fun and visual way.
Materials needed:
- Poster paper or Canva templates
- Colored markers or printed photos of dishes
- Glue, scissors, and decorations (optional)
Instructions:
- Ask students to bring a favorite Thanksgiving or family recipe, whether it’s a traditional turkey dish or a unique cultural creation.
- Have them design a poster showing the recipe name, ingredients, short instructions, and a short story behind the dish.
- Display all posters on the classroom wall or create a “Recipe Gallery Walk.”
- Let students vote for “Most Creative,” “Most Heartwarming,” or “Most Delicious-Looking” recipe.
- Capture photos of the display for a colorful, festive classroom moment.
30. Reflection journal: What Thanksgiving means to me
A quiet, introspective writing activity to end the Thanksgiving week.
Materials needed:
- Notebooks or Google Docs
- Writing prompts
- Calm classroom music (optional)
Instructions:
- Provide prompts like “What does gratitude mean in my life?” or “How does my family celebrate Thanksgiving?”
- Allow students 15 – 20 minutes for free writing.
- Invite volunteers to share their reflections.
- Close by discussing how gratitude can be practiced beyond the holiday season.
Final thoughts
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to combine learning and gratitude in the classroom. These Thanksgiving activities for students inspire creativity, teamwork, and reflection while helping learners understand the true meaning of the season. By blending fun with purpose, teachers can turn this holiday into a memorable experience that encourages kindness, curiosity, and thankfulness in every student.
