The EastCoaster

By: Claire DeMarco

We all know the excitement before the holidays—the giddiness, the joy, the anticipation, and all the preparations. When it comes to Thanksgiving, so much of this excitement comes from the pure joy of seeing family and taking the time to be with, cherish, and express gratitude toward one another.

Amidst the anticipation of the days off, the good food, and the feeling of home, we oftentimes forget one crucial piece: What are we going to do with all these people? If you’re like me, and you come from a large family with members of varying ages, interests, and home states, this question can seem daunting. Organizing your family’s needs proves to be a challenge for any host who is looking to welcome, feed, catch up with, and entertain their guests. If you’re looking for what to do with family members (no matter how many and no matter how old) we’ve got some ideas for you!

Football

It’s an American classic! Not only is there the famous pastime of watching NFL football with family and friends, but our lovely November weather provides us the chance to play it ourselves.  Just like that first scene of the classic A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, the Thanksgiving kickoff isn’t just for the NFL, but for family fun entertainment as well. Especially if you have a larger, athletically inclined family, spending some time outdoors in a friendly game of football is a great way to bond, have fun, get some fresh air, and stay out of the way of the cooks in the Kitchen.

Crafts

With little kids, or with older adults, football can sometimes be a little too hectic if there is bad weather. Instead, make the most of an indoor activity with some fun fall crafts! Whether it be the classic hand turkey, mini pumpkin painting, making and painting clay mugs, or getting creative with leaves, pinecones, acorns, etc., there is no shortage of fun indoor crafts. Engaging the younger children in the family with the older generations, crafts are an activity suited for any member of the family.

Baking

Staying on theme with what is already the most fun aspect of Thanksgiving (the food), choosing something to bake together as a family can be a great way to bond, while also taking some pressure off the host to have everything ready. Something fun my family always did was take the time to bake, shape, and decorate sugar cookies. This was always a fun tradition from the time we were toddlers and now as adults. Baking delicious goods is a family-friendly activity that can get kids, grumpy teenagers, busy parents, and older generations involved in the Thanksgiving fun and also proves to be a great tradition to set and carry on. Especially with so many Thanksgiving dessert staples, choosing one to make with your family embraces all the Thanksgiving vibes and allows us to take a break from the chaos of life. 

Board Games

Perhaps the most nostalgic of our choices is playing some board games! This particular activity is another classic, cozy, fall favorite. Both safe and engaging for kids while also being nostalgic for older generations, playing some of your family’s favorite board games is a great way to get all members of the family together. The fun doesn’t just stop at board games. If you’re like my family, some friendly competition through various card games works great for all members. 

Family Photos

In the theme of nostalgic activities for your family, one that is both sweet and sentimental is the taking and sorting of family photos. Thanksgiving is one of the few times of the year that gives families the opportunity to get together and be with those they haven’t seen in a while. This makes it a wonderful time to cram every family member in the kitchen, on the porch, or around the table for some family photos. And not just for social media, or next month’s holiday card, but for the memories and safekeeping of every person in the room. Similarly, taking the time with your family to break out the old photo and wedding albums can be a great way to share culture, stories, family history, and celebrate and remember those who cannot be with you for the Holidays.

Whether you are gathering in your home, at a family member’s house, or spending the day with family and friends, (new or old) we hope you take some time to engage with and make memories with those around you. Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving!