Best Thanksgiving TV Episodes to Watch in 2024

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and giving thanks for all that we have. It’s also a time for indulging in delicious food and enjoying quality time together. One way to get into the Thanksgiving spirit is by watching some classic Thanksgiving-themed TV episodes.

There are plenty of TV shows that have aired Thanksgiving episodes over the years, and some of them have become iconic. From heartwarming family moments to hilarious mishaps in the kitchen, Thanksgiving TV episodes capture the essence of the holiday in a way that is both entertaining and relatable.

When it comes to choosing the best Thanksgiving TV episodes, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the episode should have a strong Thanksgiving theme and capture the spirit of the holiday. Second, it should be well-written and well-acted, with memorable moments that stick with viewers long after the episode has ended.

With these factors in mind, we’ve spent hours researching and watching Thanksgiving TV episodes to identify the best of the best. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming family sitcom or a laugh-out-loud comedy, we’ve got you covered.

Best Thanksgiving TV Episodes

As the holiday season approaches, we can’t help but look forward to the classic Thanksgiving TV episodes that have become a beloved tradition for many families. From heartwarming moments to hilarious mishaps, these episodes capture the spirit of the holiday and remind us of the importance of gratitude and togetherness. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best Thanksgiving TV episodes that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit. So sit back, relax, and enjoy these timeless classics with your loved ones.

Father Knows Best

If you’re a fan of classic TV shows and looking for the best Thanksgiving episodes, Father Knows Best is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Heartwarming and relatable storylines
• Great acting by the cast
• High-quality video and audio

Cons

• Not as well-known as some other classic TV shows
• Some episodes may feel dated to modern audiences
• Limited bonus features

Father Knows Best is a classic TV show that aired in the 1950s and 1960s, but its themes and storylines are still relevant today. The Thanksgiving episodes are particularly heartwarming, with the Anderson family coming together to celebrate the holiday and reflect on what they’re thankful for. The acting by the cast is top-notch, with Robert Young and Jane Wyatt leading the way as the parents of the Anderson family.

The video and audio quality on this release are excellent, making it a pleasure to watch. The English subtitles are also a nice touch for those who are hard of hearing or want to follow along more closely. However, some episodes may feel dated to modern audiences, and the limited bonus features may not be enough for die-hard fans of the show.

Overall, if you’re a fan of classic TV shows or looking for heartwarming Thanksgiving episodes, Father Knows Best is definitely worth checking out.

The Best Thing I Ever Ate

If you’re a foodie, you might be looking for some inspiration for your Thanksgiving meal. Look no further than “The Best Thing I Ever Ate” TV series. Here’s our take on the pros and cons of this show:

Pros

• Mouth-watering dishes that will inspire your Thanksgiving menu.
• A variety of chefs and food personalities with different backgrounds and cooking styles.
• The show is well-produced with high-quality visuals and sound.

Cons

• Some of the dishes might be too complicated or expensive for the average home cook.
• The show doesn’t have a clear structure or format, which might be confusing for some viewers.
• The show might not be suitable for vegans or vegetarians, as it focuses on meat and seafood dishes.

In “The Best Thing I Ever Ate,” each episode features different chefs and food personalities sharing their favorite dishes from around the world. From classic comfort foods to exotic delicacies, this show will make your taste buds tingle.

One of the best things about this show is the variety of chefs and food personalities featured. You’ll get to see different cooking styles and techniques, as well as learn about the cultural and historical significance of each dish.

The show is also well-produced, with high-quality visuals and sound that make you feel like you’re right there in the kitchen with the chefs.

However, some of the dishes might be too complicated or expensive for the average home cook. Additionally, the show doesn’t have a clear structure or format, which might be confusing for some viewers. Lastly, the show might not be suitable for vegans or vegetarians, as it focuses on meat and seafood dishes.

Overall, if you’re a foodie looking for some inspiration for your Thanksgiving meal, “The Best Thing I Ever Ate” is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared to drool over some mouth-watering dishes that might be out of your comfort zone.

Paula’s Best Dishes

If you’re looking for a delightful Thanksgiving TV episode, Paula’s Best Dishes is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The show features Paula Deen, a renowned chef, who shares her favorite recipes and cooking tips.
• The Thanksgiving episode is filled with mouth-watering dishes that are sure to impress your guests.
• The show is available with English subtitles, making it easy to follow along with the recipes.

Cons

• The show may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions, as many of the dishes are high in calories and fat.
• Some viewers may find Paula’s southern accent difficult to understand.
• The show is only available in English, so it may not be accessible to non-English speakers.

In this episode, Paula shares her favorite Thanksgiving recipes, including a succulent turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and a decadent pumpkin pie. She also offers tips on how to make the perfect gravy and how to carve a turkey like a pro.

What we love about this episode is Paula’s infectious energy and enthusiasm for cooking. She makes even the most complicated dishes seem easy and approachable, and her warm personality makes you feel like she’s right there in the kitchen with you.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun and informative Thanksgiving TV episode, Paula’s Best Dishes is definitely worth checking out.

Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a hilarious and irreverent take on Thanksgiving, then “Thanksgiving” is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The cast is fantastic, with Chris Elliott and Amy Sedaris delivering standout performances.
• The humor is sharp and witty, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.
• The show is refreshingly honest about the ups and downs of the holiday season, making it relatable to anyone who has ever had a less-than-perfect Thanksgiving.

Cons

• The content advisory is accurate, with plenty of substance use, foul language, and sexual content that may not be suitable for all viewers.
• The show can be a bit raunchy at times, which may turn off some viewers who prefer a more family-friendly Thanksgiving experience.
• The runtime is only 45 minutes, which may leave some viewers wanting more.

Overall, we highly recommend “Thanksgiving” for anyone who wants a fresh and funny take on the holiday season. With its talented cast, sharp writing, and irreverent humor, this show is sure to become a holiday classic in no time. So why not gather the family around the TV and enjoy a Thanksgiving feast of laughter and fun?

The Waltons

If you’re looking for a heartwarming Thanksgiving TV episode, then The Waltons is a great choice.

Pros

• The storyline is family-friendly and heartwarming.
• The characters are relatable and endearing.
• The scenery and setting are picturesque and immersive.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the show to be slow-paced.
• The show may not appeal to those who prefer more modern and fast-paced TV shows.
• The DVD set may be expensive for some viewers.

The Waltons is a classic TV show that follows the lives of a large family living in rural Virginia during the Great Depression and World War II. The Thanksgiving episode from the third season, titled “The Thanksgiving Story,” is a heartwarming tale of family togetherness and gratitude.

The characters in The Waltons are relatable and endearing, and the show’s focus on family values and relationships is heartwarming. The scenery and setting of the show are also beautiful and immersive, transporting viewers to a simpler time and place.

However, some viewers may find the show to be slow-paced, and it may not appeal to those who prefer more modern and fast-paced TV shows. Additionally, the DVD set may be expensive for some viewers.

Overall, if you’re looking for a family-friendly and heartwarming Thanksgiving TV episode, The Waltons is definitely worth checking out.

The Waltons

If you’re a fan of classic TV shows, then The Waltons is a must-watch.

Pros

• The show has a heartwarming storyline that showcases the importance of family and community.
• The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to get invested in their stories.
• The production quality is excellent, with beautiful cinematography and authentic period costumes.

Cons

• The show can be slow-paced at times, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
• Some of the themes and storylines may not be relevant to modern audiences.
• The show is not suitable for young children due to its mature content.

If you’re in the mood for a heartwarming family drama, The Waltons is definitely worth checking out. Set in rural Virginia during the Great Depression, the show follows the lives of the Walton family as they navigate the challenges of everyday life.

One of the things that makes The Waltons so special is its emphasis on community and the importance of family. Watching the Waltons come together to support one another through thick and thin is truly heartwarming, and it’s hard not to feel invested in their stories.

Another thing that sets The Waltons apart is its attention to detail. The show’s creators clearly put a lot of effort into making the show as authentic as possible, from the period costumes to the beautiful cinematography.

That being said, The Waltons is not without its flaws. Some viewers may find the show’s slow pace and lack of action to be a bit tedious at times. Additionally, some of the themes and storylines may not be as relevant to modern audiences.

Overall, we would definitely recommend The Waltons to anyone looking for a classic family drama with heart. Just be aware that it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and that it’s not suitable for young children due to its mature content.

Holiday Baking Championship

If you’re looking for a fun and festive way to get into the Thanksgiving spirit, the Holiday Baking Championship is a great choice.

Pros

• The show features talented bakers who create delicious and visually stunning desserts that are sure to impress.
• The judges provide helpful feedback and insight into the baking process, which can be useful for viewers who want to improve their own skills.
• The show has a lighthearted and enjoyable atmosphere that makes it perfect for watching with family and friends during the holiday season.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the competition aspect of the show to be stressful or anxiety-inducing.
• The show can be predictable at times, with certain contestants or challenges following a familiar formula.
• The show may not be as appealing to viewers who are not interested in baking or cooking.

Overall, if you’re a fan of baking shows or just looking for a fun and festive way to get into the Thanksgiving spirit, the Holiday Baking Championship is a great choice. The talented bakers, helpful judges, and lighthearted atmosphere make for an enjoyable viewing experience. However, if you’re not interested in baking or cooking, the show may not be as appealing.

Best Thanksgiving TV Episodes Collection

If you’re looking for a great way to celebrate Thanksgiving, this collection of TV episodes is a must-have. We’ve watched them all and here’s what we think:

Pros

• The collection includes episodes from popular TV shows like Friends, How I Met Your Mother, and The Office.
• The episodes are all centered around Thanksgiving, making it a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
• The collection is reasonably priced and provides hours of entertainment.

Cons

• The collection may not include every Thanksgiving episode from your favorite TV shows.
• Some of the episodes may not be suitable for all ages.
• The collection is only available in DVD format.

We thoroughly enjoyed watching this collection of Thanksgiving episodes. Each episode brought back fond memories and made us laugh out loud. The Friends episode where Monica puts a turkey on her head is a classic, and the How I Met Your Mother episode where Marshall tries to get to New York for Thanksgiving dinner is hilarious.

The only downside to this collection is that it may not include every Thanksgiving episode from your favorite TV shows. Additionally, some of the episodes may not be suitable for all ages. However, overall we think this collection is a great investment for anyone looking to get into the Thanksgiving spirit.

In terms of value, the collection is reasonably priced and provides hours of entertainment. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun way to celebrate Thanksgiving with their loved ones.

The Waltons Movie Collection

If you’re a fan of the classic TV series, The Waltons, then you’ll definitely want to add The Waltons Movie Collection to your collection. This 3-disc set features six made-for-television holiday-themed movies that are perfect for Thanksgiving. Here’s what we thought about this collection:

Pros

• Heartwarming and family-friendly movies
• Features most of the original cast
• Great value for money

Cons

• Richard Wrightman’s portrayal of John-Boy is not as good as Richard Thomas’
• Ellen Corby plays a diminished role as Grandma Walton due to her stroke
• Some of the storylines are weaker than others

Overall, we highly recommend The Waltons Movie Collection to anyone who loves the original TV series. These heartwarming movies are perfect for Thanksgiving and will make you feel nostalgic for a simpler time.

In A Wedding on Walton’s Mountain, Erin must decide whether or not to follow her heart and marry her fiancé. Mothers’ Day on Walton’s Mountain sees the family coming together to honor the person they turn to in times of crisis. A Day for Thanks on Walton’s Mountain features Robert Wightman as John-Boy and takes place during the time of JFK’s death. A Walton Thanksgiving Reunion jumps ahead nearly two decades to 1963, and features Richard Thomas as John-Boy once again. A Walton Wedding sees John-Boy getting married and leaving Walton’s Mountain. Finally, A Walton Easter celebrates John and Olivia’s 40th wedding anniversary, and John-Boy contemplates returning to Walton’s Mountain for good.

Each movie is a Very Special Episode of the original TV series, and is rich with family milestones and crises that will test and reaffirm the family’s values of hard work, common sense, and faith. If you’re looking for a heartwarming and family-friendly way to spend Thanksgiving, then The Waltons Movie Collection is the perfect choice.

The Waltons

If you’re a fan of classic family dramas, we recommend checking out The Waltons.

Pros

• Engaging storylines that explore the ups and downs of a large family living in rural Virginia during the Great Depression and World War II.
• Heartwarming moments that celebrate the importance of family, community, and tradition.
• Strong performances from a talented cast, including Richard Thomas, Ralph Waite, and Michael Learned.

Cons

• The show’s slower pace and lack of action may not appeal to viewers who prefer more fast-paced, dramatic storytelling.
• Some of the dated cultural references and gender roles may feel out of step with contemporary values.
• The show’s episodic structure means that some episodes may feel repetitive or less essential than others.

Overall, we think The Waltons is a great choice for anyone who enjoys classic family dramas that prioritize heart and character over flashy action and plot twists. While the show may not be for everyone, its engaging storylines, strong performances, and celebration of family values make it a worthwhile addition to any TV collection.

Note: The Waltons is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video or purchase on DVD.

Buying Guide

When it comes to finding the best Thanksgiving TV episodes, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your selection:

Theme

Thanksgiving TV episodes can vary in theme, from heartwarming family moments to comedic mishaps in the kitchen. Consider what type of episode you’re in the mood for and choose accordingly.

Cast

Many popular TV shows have Thanksgiving episodes, but some are more memorable than others. Look for episodes that feature your favorite characters and actors, as they will likely bring their A-game to the holiday festivities.

Plot

Thanksgiving episodes can range from simple family dinners to elaborate adventures. Consider what type of plot you’re looking for and choose an episode that fits the bill.

Length

Some Thanksgiving episodes are longer than others, so consider how much time you have to dedicate to watching. If you’re short on time, look for shorter episodes or ones that can stand alone without needing to watch the entire series.

Availability

Not all Thanksgiving TV episodes are available to stream or purchase, so make sure to check if the episode you want to watch is easily accessible.

By considering these factors, you’ll be able to find the perfect Thanksgiving TV episode to enjoy with your loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated Thanksgiving episodes in television history?

There are many Thanksgiving episodes that have become fan favorites over the years. Some of the top-rated Thanksgiving episodes in television history include “The One with All the Thanksgivings” from Friends, “Slapsgiving” from How I Met Your Mother, and “A Deep Fried Korean Thanksgiving” from Gilmore Girls.

Which Thanksgiving episodes from Friends are considered the best?

Friends is known for its Thanksgiving episodes, and there are several that are considered the best. “The One with All the Thanksgivings” is a fan favorite, as it features flashbacks to the gang’s worst Thanksgivings. “The One Where Ross Got High” is also popular, as it features a hilarious subplot involving Rachel making a terrible Thanksgiving dessert.

Can you list the best Thanksgiving episodes available on Hulu?

Hulu has a great selection of Thanksgiving episodes to choose from. Some of the best include “Thanksgiving” from Master of None, “The One with All the Thanksgivings” from Friends, and “Turkey Day” from Brooklyn Nine-Nine.

Are there any animated series with notable Thanksgiving episodes?

Yes, there are several animated series with notable Thanksgiving episodes. “Bart vs. Thanksgiving” from The Simpsons is a classic, as is “A Winnie the Pooh Thanksgiving” from The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. “Thanksgiving of Horror” from The Simpsons is also a more recent addition to the list.

What are the standout Thanksgiving episodes from Modern Family?

Modern Family has had several standout Thanksgiving episodes over the years. “Three Turkeys” is a fan favorite, as it features the family trying to cook three turkeys at once. “Express Christmas” is also popular, as it features the family trying to celebrate Christmas early so they can all go on vacation.

Has Parks and Recreation featured any special episodes for Thanksgiving?

Yes, Parks and Recreation has featured several special episodes for Thanksgiving. “Ron and Tammy” is a fan favorite, as it features Ron’s ex-wife Tammy causing chaos at the department’s annual Thanksgiving potluck. “Leslie and Ron” is also popular, as it features Leslie and Ron reconciling over a bottle of whiskey on Thanksgiving Day.