Thanksgiving is a special time for family gatherings, expressing gratitude, and enjoying a feast together. While the holiday focuses primarily on the traditional family meal, there are many fun activities that teens can participate in to enhance their Thanksgiving experience. This article provides a list of engaging activities that will not only keep teens entertained but also foster a sense of bonding and gratitude within the family.
1. Dolphin Paper Art
Encourage relaxation and creativity with this activity that involves painting Thanksgiving-themed designs on dolphin paper. The unique twist of having the guests eat the corn without using their hands adds an exciting element of challenge and fun to the activity.
2. Toss the Popcorn
A healthy competition that encourages teamwork and coordination, tossed-popcorn contests are perfect for Thanksgiving. Set a timer and watch as teams of two challenge each other to see who can toss their popcorn into their partner's mouth the fastest.
3. Toss the Egg
A classic game for Thanksgiving that tests the coordination and dexterity of teens. Teams of two players stand apart, and one player tosses the egg between their partners. With each toss, they take a step back to add another layer of difficulty. The team with the unbroken egg at the end is declared the winner.
4. Do a Turkey Run
A fun way to build up an appetite for Thanksgiving turkey by heading out for a family run on Thanksgiving morning. Many neighborhoods host community runs that also raise funds for charity. Consider joining a local run or heading out on your own to get in some exercise and enjoy the crisp autumn air.
5. Pumpkin Hunt
A nostalgic treasure hunt perfect for children of all ages. Hide a pumpkin in your house and hand out fun and interesting cue cards to lead your teen and their friends on a quest to find it. Set a timer for the teenagers to find the pumpkin and bring it back to you.
6. Sack Race
A classic party game that can be adapted for Thanksgiving with the addition of Thanksgiving-themed obstacles. Let your teens show off their speed, strength, and agility as they push the pumpkin along the finish line using only their head.
7. Pumpkin Water Race
A refreshing way to cool down on a warm autumn day. Fill a large pumpkin with water and have your teens compete by pushing the pumpkin through the pool using only their heads. The first one to make it to the finish line with the pumpkin is the winner.
8. Pumpkin Pair
A task designed to test the coordination and communication skills of teens. Teams of two players must place the pumpkin between them by using their foreheads without touching it with their hands. The team that maintains the pumpkin in place until the end is the winner.
9. Pumpkin Line up
A fun and simple activity for larger groups of teens. Stand in two groups and pass the pumpkin back and forth between leaders who give commands like 'jump', 'squat', 'turn around', and more. The team that sends the pumpkin to the end first wins.
10. Scoop out the Balls
A popular game that is perfect for large families. Fill large bowls with cotton balls and hand them out to all the teenagers. Once you give the signal, the participants have to scoop out the cotton balls one by one using the spoon. The teenager who empties the bowl first wins.
11. Turkey Bowling
An exciting bowling game that can be played with a little creativity, using plastic bottles filled with water and Thanksgiving-themed bowling pins. Set up a smooth track for the turkey to slide down and enjoy a fun and energetic game.
Thanksgiving Traditions for Teens
Thanksgiving day is a time for expressing gratitude and being grateful for what we have in life. Traditional activities such as cooking the holiday meal with family, playing games with friends and family, and volunteering at local shelters are popular among teens.
How to Incorporate Technology into Thanksgiving Celebrations
1. Virtual Thanksgiving Dinner
Organize a virtual Thanksgiving dinner with everyone connected through video call. You can use platforms like Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet to enjoy a meal together, even if you're not physically together.
2. Digital Photobook Memories
Create a digital photobook with photos from past Thanksgiving celebrations. Share this digital keepsake with friends and relatives over email or social media to keep the Thanksgiving spirit alive year after year.
3. Virtual Charity Event Participation
Participate in a virtual charity event or a fundraiser held specifically for the holidays. This can be a great way to engage with the community and raise awareness for causes that are important to you and your family.
##Thanksgiving activities for teens are a fantastic way to bond, create lasting memories, and have fun together. Whether it's trying out new activities, playing classic games, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, the memories made during this holiday season will be cherished for years to come.
