10 Thanksgiving movies kids can watch before or after the big feast

Whether you’re wanting to keep your child entertained on Thanksgiving while you roast the turkey, or are looking for a film that both of you can enjoy together after the big feast, these Thanksgiving movies have you covered.

From animated classics like “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” to the timeless holiday film “Miracle on 34th Street,” you really can’t go wrong with any movie on this list. There’s so much to be grateful for this Thanksgiving, so curl up with your loved ones, grab another helping of turkey and mashed potatoes and queue one of these feel-good, family movies. Gobble gobble, everybody!

10 of the best Thanksgiving movies for kids

1. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving 

It’s not the holidays without Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang! Follow along as Charlie tries to plan not one, but two Thanksgiving dinners. With help from his trusty sidekick, Snoopy, Charlie might just be able to pull it off, even if it means having toast and jellybeans for their big Thanksgiving feast. 

Streaming on AppleTV+

2. Free Birds 

In this funny 2013 animated film, two curious turkeys (voiced by Owen Wilson and Woody Harrelson) take it upon themselves to get their fellow feathered friends off the Thanksgiving menu by time traveling back to the very first Thanksgiving feast in 1621. Amy Poehler also voices a character in the movie, so you know it’s a comedic treat for all ages. 

Streaming on Netflix 

3. Fantastic Mr. Fox 

Based on the novel by legendary author Roald Dahl, Fantastic Mr. Fox follows family man Mr. Fox who finds himself in a poultry battle with his neighbors, who happen to be farmers, after falling back into his old mischievous ways. The funny family film, which boasts autumnal vibes and Thanksgiving-sized feasts, is voiced by George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Bill Murray, and Wes Anderson. 

Streaming on Disney+

4. Garfield’s Thanksgiving 

America’s beloved cartoon cat is back! In this Thanksgiving special of Garfield and Friends, Garfield explains that people celebrate the turkey holiday “by eating as much of it [food] as possible. It’s a tradition, I love tradition.” Before he can get his feast on, Garfield’s owner, Jon, takes him to see his arch nemesis: the veterinarian. See what plan Garfield comes up with to plan the most epic Thanksgiving dinner!

Available on YouTube

5. Miracle on 34th Street 

There’s no better way to close out the Thanksgiving holiday and ring in the Christmas season than with Miracle on 34th Street. The movie begins at the iconic Macy’s annual Thanksgiving Day parade where a man named Kris Kringle makes a memorable appearance, and continues to show up at every NYC department store under the impression that he is in fact, Santa Claus.

Streaming on Hulu

6. Jim Henson’s Turkey Hollow

Join the Emmerson’s as they travel to their Aunt’s small town for Thanksgiving. This whimsical movie follows two kids as they search for the town’s legendary mythical creatures.

Streaming on Amazon

7. Mary Poppins Returns

What’s a holiday movie without the magic of Mary Poppins and feel-good family vibes? This sequel to the 1964 classic is always a good choice for holiday season and family gatherings.

Streaming on Disney+

8. “Bart vs. Thanksgiving” from The Simpsons

The classic Thanksgiving episode would make for some great entertainment during dessert. This might be more suitable for older kiddos but the spirit of the holiday really comes to life in this one.

Streaming on Disney+

9. Winnie the Pooh: Seasons of Giving

Cozy up after dinner to watch Winnie the Pooh and friends learn the true meaning behind the holidays in this old-time feature.

Streaming on Amazon

10. Ratatoullie

For a holiday that’s centered around food, you can’t go wrong with this Pixar favorite. Gather and follow along as Remy the rat tries to make his dreams of becoming a chef come true. With plenty of laughs and a happy ending, this is definitely one to be included in your list of Thanksgiving movies for kids.

Streaming on Disney+

A version of this post was published November 4, 2021. It has been updated.