Thanksgiving Movies for Kids Rated G
Looking for Thanksgiving movies for kids rated G? Discover the best family-friendly films plus fun crafts & activities to make your holiday movie night extra special.
When the kitchen smells like Thanksgiving dinner, the table is set with stretchy pants in mind, and your whole family is gathered together, there’s nothing better than settling in for a cozy family movie night. But as parents, we know not every movie labeled “family-friendly” actually works for young viewers or little kids.
That’s why I’ve put together this list of the best Thanksgiving movies for kids rated G—films that you can feel confident putting on for the entire family, from toddlers and preschoolers to older kids. These heartwarming classics and animated movies are the perfect way to slow down, connect, and enjoy the magic of the Thanksgiving season together.
And because I know family time doesn’t stop at the screen, I’ve also included some fun ways to extend the magic with Thanksgiving crafts and activities you can do alongside these films.
Note: Some links may be affiliate links. That means I may make a commission if you use my links to purchase, at no extra added cost to you! I only recommend products that I personally love and believe in. Full disclaimer here.
Why G-Rated Movies Are a Parent’s Best Friend
While PG films can sometimes work for kids, G-rated Thanksgiving movies are a safe bet for families with little kids. They’re usually shorter, full of gentle humor, and highlight the importance of family in ways that connect beautifully to the themes of Thanksgiving.
The Best G-Rated Thanksgiving Movies for Kids (and where to stream them)
These are the movies that spark giggles, invite questions at the dinner table, and make kids excited to come back year after year. Think of them as heartwarming classics with the same staying power as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or pumpkin pie.
Quick note: This list is accurate as of the date this article was published. However, keep in mind that availability for streaming services can change from month to month and also depends on your geographic area. Many of these movies can be a little tough to find, but not impossible!
Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (G)
Where to watch: Exclusively on Apple TV+, though Apple occasionally offers free viewing windows in early November
It’s impossible to talk about kid-friendly Thanksgiving movies without mentioning A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. This animated classic from the Peanuts gang is the ultimate Thanksgiving holiday tradition.
When Peppermint Patty invites herself (and half the crew) over for Thanksgiving, poor Charlie Brown is left scrambling to prepare a Thanksgiving feast with nothing but popcorn, toast, and jellybeans. And yet—it’s a reminder that the perfect way to celebrate is simply being together with your family members.
Pair it with: our Free Printable Thanksgiving Activity Book for Toddlers or the Thanksgiving I Am Thankful Turkey Headband Craft to make it even more special for your little ones.
Garfield’s Thanksgiving (G)
Where to Watch: Available to stream for free on Plex or watch on Tubi. It may also be available to rent via Apple TV or Prime Video in some areas
This family-friendly Thanksgiving movie is full of silly laughs that young children adore. Garfield’s vet puts him on a diet just as Jon invites Liz over for Thanksgiving—cue the chaos and complaints about pumpkin pie.
This lighthearted TV holiday special is a feel-good film that reminds us all about gratitude (and maybe stretchy pants!).
Craft connection: After watching, kids can try making their own silly paper bag turkey craft – because who doesn’t love Garfield grumbling about turkey?
Arthur’s Thanksgiving (G)
Where to Watch: Streaming availability varies, but commonly found on PBS Kids during holidays and sometimes available via subscription platforms. (Check your local listings.)
The beloved aardvark takes on directing the school Thanksgiving play, and things don’t go as planned. This animated movie is sweet, relatable for kids, and highlights the themes of family and teamwork.
It’s a good Thanksgiving movie for kids who might be in their first school play, or even just nervous about standing up in front of others.
Alvin’s Thanksgiving Celebration (G)
Where to Watch: Not always on major platforms—often rented or sold on digital platforms like iTunes or Amazon.
The Chipmunks bring their squeaky humor to Thanksgiving in this collection of shorts. It’s silly, musical, and full of energy that little kids love.
This one is a perfect example of a movie you can put on while finishing up dessert or cleaning the kitchen.
Pooh’s Heffalump Thanksgiving Movie (G)
Where to Watch: Occasionally available through Disney’s digital library or as part of DVD collections. Streaming availability varies.
Head to the Hundred Acre Wood for this gentle animated film where Pooh and friends prepare for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Of course, chaos ensues, but the result is a reminder that the importance of family and gratitude matter more than the menu.
This sweet heartwarming tale is especially perfect for preschoolers who already love Winnie the Pooh.
Bugs Bunny’s Thanksgiving Diet (G)
Where to Watch: It can pop up on free platforms like Tubi or Plex, depending on licensing.
This Looney Tunes Thanksgiving special isn’t just funny—it’s full of nostalgia for parents, too. With Bugs acting as a dietician for characters who have eaten too much, it ties directly to the big meal at the Thanksgiving table.
It’s short, zany, and a good reason to introduce kids to family comedies of another era.
Jim Henson’s Turkey Hollow (G)
Where to Watch: Often available for rent or purchase via Apple TV or Amazon.
This is a unique take on Thanksgiving-themed films. While not as well-known as Charlie Brown or Garfield, it has the magic of Jim Henson creatures, a young girl protagonist, and plenty of adventure.
It’s an independent voice film with a little quirk, making it a fun way to watch something different this Thanksgiving holiday.
Honorable Mentions: Movies with Thanksgiving Spirit
These movies aren’t technically Thanksgiving-themed films and aren’t rated G, but they capture the cozy holiday season spirit or include memorable Thanksgiving scenes. It makes them a fun option to add to your Thanksgiving movie marathon, especially for later watching with older kids.
Here are a few of our family’s favorites:
- Home Alone (PG, but many families include it in their list of the best Thanksgiving movies of all time since it kicks off the Christmas season if they have children over 5)
- Addams Family Values (PG-13, but that hilarious Thanksgiving pageant scene with Wednesday Addams is iconic for older kids)
- Free Birds (PG, an animated movie about turkeys traveling with a time machine to stop the first Thanksgiving—fun but best for older kids)
- Miracle on 34th Street (G, more of a Christmas movie, but starts with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade)
- Little Women (PG, but often tied to the Thanksgiving season and holiday classic traditions)
Fun Kids Activities to Pair with Thanksgiving Movies
Want to make your Thanksgiving movie marathon extra special? Pair your viewing with Thanksgiving crafts and activities! It’s the perfect way to sneak in a little hands-on fun, keep restless toddlers engaged, and create new family traditions.
Here are some fun ways to connect movies to activities:
- Watch Charlie Brown Thanksgiving + make a Simple Paper Bag Turkey Craft for Kids
- After Garfield’s Thanksgiving, color through our Free Printable Thanksgiving Activity Book for Toddlers
- Watch Pooh’s Heffalump Thanksgiving Movie + make some Easy, Kid Friendly Thanksgiving Side Dishes together.
- Finish Alvin’s Thanksgiving Celebration + practice gratitude with our Adorable Thanksgiving Turkey Handprint Poem Printable
- Enjoy Arthur’s Thanksgiving + make a Toddler-Friendly DIY Fall Wreath as a keepsake.
These small pairings make family movie night more interactive and turn the Thanksgiving holiday into a memory-making event.
Looking for more G-rated holiday movies? You might also appreciate:
Final Thoughts: The Best G-Rated Thanksgiving Movies for Kids
From Charlie Brown Thanksgiving to Pooh’s Heffalump Thanksgiving, these family-friendly Thanksgiving movies are the perfect way to keep kids entertained while reinforcing the themes of family and gratitude.
So this Thanksgiving season, after the Thanksgiving feast is finished and the dinner table is cleared, gather your entire family, cozy up with a blanket, and press play on one of these heartwarming classics. Add in a few crafts or printables, and you’ve got the recipe for the kind of quality time your kids will remember long after the last bite of pumpkin pie.
