5 Thanksgiving Traditions for Little Patriots

Patriotism fits naturally into Thanksgiving, partly because the holiday itself is something distinctly American—stitched together from history, gratitude, and the age old tradition of gathering around a crowded table. When families want to honor the country without turning dinner into a civics lecture, small, warm traditions do the job beautifully. ❤️

Here are five ways to do that, with a few classic resources woven in:

1. Watch something wholesome and patriotic!

The timeless Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade is a must in the morning! A short pre-dinner viewing settles the kids and sets the tone. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is always reliable—gentle, funny, and rooted in the simple virtues families appreciate. After the credits roll, you can talk about the long tradition of American Thanksgivings going back to Washington and Lincoln. It’s nostalgia and heritage in the same bowl.

2. Read a children’s book about early America.

Leading up to the big day and on the day of, gather the younger kids and read something that introduces American history in a gentle, story-driven way. Books on the Pilgrims, the first Thanksgivings, or early colonial life give children a sense of where the holiday comes from. Research the painting of the baptism of Pocahontas in the Capital Rotunda!

3. Create a “gratitude” round at the table.

When everyone shares what they’re grateful for, invite a few people to mention blessings that come with living in America—freedom to worship, the chance to work hard and build a better life, the peace that lets a family gather safely. It’s simple, not showy, and it reminds kids that the liberties baked into American life are worth savoring alongside the pumpkin pie.

4. Set a small heritage display.

Place a folded flag, a photo of a relative who served, or a copy of Washington’s 1789 Thanksgiving proclamation on a side table. Even a printout works. It signals to guests—and especially children—that the day is tied to real history, real people, and real sacrifice. A little visual cue carries more weight than a long explanation.

5. Add service to the tradition.

Before the festivities start, take the kids to drop off canned goods at a food pantry, bake a pie for a neighbor, or write cards for deployed service members. Patriotism anchored in service feels timeless, and it teaches kids that loving your country often means loving the people around you.

Once these touches become familiar, Thanksgiving starts to feel less like a single holiday and more like a yearly reminder of how gratitude and American heritage walk hand in hand. 🇺🇸