Thanksgiving is more than just turkey and pie—it’s a time for family, friends, and making memories. After the plates are cleared and the leftovers are packed away, why not gather everyone around for a game night? Board games are a fantastic way to bring people together, spark laughter, and create lasting traditions.
Here are 10 perfect board games to elevate your Thanksgiving gatherings:
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1. Codenames
Best for: Families who love wordplay and teamwork.
Codenames pits two teams against each other in a battle of clues and clever thinking. A “spymaster” gives one-word hints to help teammates guess secret words. It’s fast-paced, creative, and perfect for all ages.
2. Ticket to Ride
Best for: Strategic thinkers and travel enthusiasts.
This classic game lets players build railways across the country. With its simple rules and competitive gameplay, Ticket to Ride is engaging for beginners and seasoned players alike.
3. Telestrations
Best for: Creative and silly crowds.
Think of Telestrations as a mix of Pictionary and Telephone. Players draw and guess phrases, leading to hilarious and unexpected outcomes. It’s perfect for large groups.
4. Pandemic
Best for: Families who love teamwork and a challenge.
Work together to save the world! Pandemic is a cooperative game where players strategize to stop global outbreaks. It’s a rewarding challenge that brings players closer together.
5. Carcassonne
Best for: Builders and puzzle lovers.
In this tile-laying game, players create medieval landscapes, building cities, roads, and farms. Carcassonne’s easy setup and competitive edge make it a go-to for Thanksgiving game nights.
6. Catan
Best for: Competitive families who love strategy
In Catan, players collect resources, trade, and build settlements to gain points. Its balance of strategy and chance ensures every game is unique and exciting.
7. Scattergories
Best for: Quick thinkers and wordsmiths.
Scattergories is a fast-paced word game where players brainstorm answers to categories based on a given letter. It’s lighthearted and ideal for all ages.
8. Apples to Apples
Best for: Groups looking for laughs.
This classic party game challenges players to match noun cards to an adjective, leading to funny and creative combinations. It’s simple and guaranteed to get everyone laughing.
9. Dixit
Best for: Creative thinkers and storytellers.
Dixit is a whimsical game where players use beautifully illustrated cards to tell stories. It sparks imagination and is accessible for all ages.
10. Uno
Best for: Card game lovers of all ages.
A timeless classic, Uno is simple to learn and endlessly entertaining. With a mix of strategy and luck, it’s perfect for keeping the Thanksgiving energy high.