Fun Thanksgiving Games and Conversation Starters to Get Your Guests Talking
The holidays are a time for gathering with family and friends, sharing delicious food, and creating lasting memories. But let’s be honest—sometimes you need a little something extra to get the conversation flowing, especially when you’re hosting a mix of family, friends, or new faces. One of my favorite ways to keep things lively is by incorporating fun games and conversation starters that get everyone talking and laughing.
Here are a few of my favorite games and ideas to help break the ice, spark meaningful conversations, and keep the good vibes going all evening long!
1. Gratitude Jar
This is one of my all-time favorite Thanksgiving traditions! Before dinner, place a “Gratitude Jar” in a central location with small pieces of paper and pens. Ask each guest to write down something they are thankful for, without signing their name. After dinner, pass the jar around and have each guest read a gratitude note aloud. Guests can try to guess who wrote it!
Why it works: It’s a beautiful way to reflect on the meaning of Thanksgiving and gives everyone a chance to share something positive. Plus, it’s fun to see how well you know your loved ones based on what they write!
2. Two Truths and a Turkey
This is a Thanksgiving-themed twist on the classic game “Two Truths and a Lie.” Each guest takes turns sharing three statements about themselves—two of them should be true, and one should be a fun, Thanksgiving-related fib (the “turkey”). The other guests have to guess which statement is the turkey!
Why it works: It’s a lighthearted, fun way to get to know each other a little better, and it usually leads to a few good laughs. Plus, it works well for groups of all ages.
3. Thanksgiving Trivia
Test everyone’s knowledge of Thanksgiving history and traditions with a fun trivia game. You can include questions about the history of Thanksgiving, famous Thanksgiving parades, or even trivia about your own family traditions! Divide guests into teams and hand out small prizes for the winners (like mini pumpkins, homemade treats, or funny holiday hats).
Why it works: Trivia is a great way to engage everyone, and it’s fun to see who knows the most random Thanksgiving facts! It can also spark interesting conversations about how different families celebrate the holiday.
4. Guess the Memory
Before the guests arrive, ask each person to send you a special or funny memory they have with someone else at the gathering. During dinner, you can share the memories aloud without revealing who submitted them, and guests can guess who the memory belongs to. It’s a great way to reminisce and share special moments from the past.
Why it works: It’s a heartwarming way to celebrate your relationships and reminds everyone of the good times you’ve shared. It’s perfect for family gatherings and close-knit groups of friends.
5. Would You Rather: Thanksgiving Edition
This is a lighthearted game that gets everyone laughing! Come up with a list of Thanksgiving-themed “Would You Rather” questions. For example: “Would you rather eat only mashed potatoes or only pumpkin pie for the rest of your life?” or “Would you rather have Thanksgiving dinner with the Pilgrims or with your favorite celebrity?”
Why it works: It’s silly, simple, and gets everyone talking! Plus, you can tailor the questions to your group’s sense of humor.
6. The Turkey Trot (Indoor Version)
If you’ve got kids at your Thanksgiving gathering (or adults who are young at heart), a mini “Turkey Trot” can be a fun way to burn off that post-dinner energy. Set up a few “obstacles” around the house—like hopping on one foot, waddling like a turkey, or balancing an apple on your head—and have guests compete in a fun, silly relay race.
Why it works: It’s a great way to break up the day and add some physical activity to the mix. Plus, it’s hilarious to watch! It’s a perfect icebreaker, especially for families with kids.
7. Conversation Cards
If you want to keep things simple but still encourage conversation, try placing “conversation cards” at each place setting. These can include prompts like “What’s your favorite Thanksgiving memory?” or “If you could invite anyone, living or dead, to Thanksgiving dinner, who would it be?” These cards can serve as conversation starters to get guests sharing stories and thoughts during the meal.
Why it works: Sometimes all you need is a little prompt to get the conversation going, and these cards are a low-pressure way to make sure everyone has something to contribute. They’re also a great way to include more introverted guests who may need a little help getting involved in the conversation.
Whether you’re looking to spark meaningful conversations or add a little fun to your Thanksgiving gathering, these games and ideas are sure to get everyone talking, laughing, and making memories. And after all, isn’t that what Thanksgiving is all about?
If you’re hosting and want help creating a warm, inviting space for your guests, I’m here to help. From tablescapes to home design, let’s work together to make your holiday gatherings unforgettable.
Reach out today for ideas or a consultation, and let’s make this Thanksgiving your best one yet!