Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday, a time for reflection on gratitude and, of course, a perfect excuse to indulge in binge-watching some classic television episodes. Over the years, Thanksgiving-themed episodes have become a beloved tradition in the TV landscape, showcasing the humor and drama that often accompany family gatherings. From heartfelt moments to hilarious mishaps, these episodes encapsulate the spirit of the holiday.

As families gather around the table to celebrate, many turn to their favorite shows to relive the laughter and chaos that Thanksgiving brings. In this article, we explore a selection of the best Thanksgiving episodes across various genres, ensuring you have the perfect lineup for your holiday viewing.

Classic Comedies

Thanksgiving is often synonymous with laughter, and several sitcoms have delivered memorable episodes that capture the essence of the holiday.

• Bob’s Burgers, “Now We’re Not Cooking With Gas”
  In this episode, the Belcher family faces a culinary crisis when the gas goes out in their neighborhood. Bob’s determination to cook a special, farm-raised turkey in the alley leads to a series of comedic encounters with the fire department. Ultimately, the family resorts to sandwiches for their Thanksgiving meal, showcasing the show’s signature humor. (Available on Hulu)
• Boy Meets World, “Turkey Day”
  This classic episode presents a poignant tale of class differences as Cory’s family heads to the Hunters’ trailer park for Thanksgiving dinner. The episode highlights themes of gratitude and the importance of family, making it a memorable addition to the Thanksgiving lineup. (Available on Disney+)
• The Brady Bunch, “The Un-Underground Movie”
  In this nostalgic episode, Greg decides to create a movie about the Pilgrims using his dad’s new camera. The project is filled with humorous mishaps, including forgetting to remove the lens cap and amusing costume blunders. Despite the chaos, the episode captures the charm of family creativity. (Available on Paramount+)
• Brooklyn Nine-Nine, “Thanksgiving”
  This standout episode from the early seasons features the lovable detectives facing off in a series of comedic challenges during the Thanksgiving holiday. The mix of humor and character development makes it a fan favorite, ensuring plenty of laughs. (Available on Netflix)

Dramatic Moments

While comedies often steal the spotlight, some dramas have delivered unforgettable Thanksgiving episodes that explore deeper themes.

• Succession, “Tern Haven”
  In this episode, the dysfunctional Roy family gathers for a Thanksgiving celebration that quickly devolves into chaos. The tension and drama among family members highlight the complexities of familial relationships, making it a gripping watch for fans of the series.
• This Is Us, “The Dinner and the Date”
  This heartfelt episode dives into the dynamics of the Pearson family as they navigate their Thanksgiving dinner. With emotional revelations and touching moments, it exemplifies the bittersweet nature of family gatherings.

Animated Favorites

Animated shows have also contributed some delightful Thanksgiving episodes that resonate with audiences of all ages.

• Friends, “The One with All the Thanksgivings”
  This iconic episode takes viewers through various Thanksgiving celebrations of the Friends gang, filled with flashbacks and hilarious moments. From Monica’s turkey head to Joey’s iconic catchphrases, this episode is a must-watch for fans. (Available on HBO Max)
• Futurama, “A Pharaoh to Remember”
  In this episode, Bender grapples with his existential fears during a Thanksgiving dinner that takes a sci-fi twist. The mix of humor and poignant moments makes it a standout in the series.

Family-Friendly Picks

For families looking to enjoy Thanksgiving-themed episodes together, several shows offer wholesome and entertaining options.

• Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
  This animated classic features Charlie Brown and his friends as they attempt to prepare a Thanksgiving feast. The simplicity and charm of this special make it a perfect choice for family viewing.
• Full House, “The Miracle of Thanksgiving”
  In this touching episode, the Tanner family faces challenges while preparing for Thanksgiving. The themes of love, friendship, and family shine through, making it a heartwarming choice.

As you plan your Thanksgiving festivities, don’t forget to include some of these classic episodes in your viewing lineup. Whether you prefer comedy, drama, or animated fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season. So gather your loved ones, prepare some snacks, and get ready to relive the laughter and joy that Thanksgiving brings through the magic of television.