When people think of Thanksgiving, the mental image of a traditional cooked turkey, pilgrims and cornucopias are the first things that come to mind. Each year during this national holiday, friends and family gather around a table in their homes to share what they are thankful for. Aside from the traditional dinner during Thanksgiving, here are a few new and unique traditions that may be worth a try for this year’s Thanksgiving. 

Creative crafts 

Whether someone is a creative person, enjoys working with others or simply wants to keep the children in their family engaged, creating unique and new crafts for Thanksgiving with one’s friends and family is always memorable and fun to do. Using cheap materials from local stores, some common Thanksgiving crafts include place cards for friends and family members at the dinner table, centerpieces made from dollar store materials and a drawn table mat children can make at the Thanksgiving gathering. The only resources needed for these crafts are paper, glue, coloring utensils and pencils. One can add fall-themed flair by using outdoor materials, such as leaves and branches.

Gratitude bracelets

Another large aspect of Thanksgiving is showing thanks to individuals within one’s community. One simple and memorable way to show gratitude to them is by making gratitude bracelets. Perfect for creative individuals or for children (most materials for these bracelets can be bought from craft stores or dollar stores) bracelets are quick and simple to make. Each bead or decorative part of the bracelet could symbolize the receiver’s characteristics to further show gratitude. Additionally, the beads chosen for the bracelet could have letters on them that spell out simple phrases of thanks to further enhance its purpose.

Friendsgiving

A large aspect of Thanksgiving is celebrating it with people that make the year worthwhile. For many, these people are their friends. A friendsgiving, where each friend brings a dish for a potluck-style meal, is a great way to get everyone together to celebrate the season. Whether each platter is inspired by a theme or caters to a specific food group, everyone involved can be sure to get a large variety of food with a friendsgiving.

Thanksgiving pinata

Suitable for all ages, a Thanksgiving pinata is a fun way to celebrate the season with a group of people. One can buy a custom-shaped pinatas or ready-made ones from local stores. The pinata can be in the shape of a pumpkin, turkey or more. Whether it is stuffed with candies or other treats, it is a fun activity for all ages to partake in.

Miniature tournament 

For those with competitive spirits, having a miniature tournament between relatives and friends through board games, video games, interactive sports and other miscellaneous activities helps large groups of people make fun memories with one another. These tournaments can be simple or complex, making them a perfect way to get everyone involved in the gathering engaged with one another. Guests can be grouped into duos or teams. Darts and bean bag tossing are some common tournament games.

Welcome tailgate for out of state guests

Want a new way to welcome out of state guests? A welcome tailgate themed for the holidays with fall themed foods and baked goods is one way many families and friends celebrate their Thanksgiving. Memorable, simple and fitting to the season, the tailgate is easy to set up in driveways and a great opportunity to take themed photos to remember the occasion.