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Embracing the holiday spirit often involves indulging in festive movies, and as Thanksgiving approaches, I eagerly compile a lengthy movie list to set the right tone for the holidays. From timeless classics to anything radiating holiday cheer, if the movie has it, it’ll be on my list. Part of my Thanksgiving tradition involves bidding farewell to any fall-oriented films and ushering in the Christmas season with winter-appropriate favorites.
If you find yourself seeking post-Thanksgiving dinner family activities that involve some quality downtime, consider indulging in a movie or two. Here are four recommendations that I personally plan to enjoy on Thanksgiving Day— a perfect way to bid adieu to fall and warmly welcome the Christmas spirit. To save you some time, I’ve included viewing options, both paid and free, to streamline your Thanksgiving Day Movie plans.
1. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
To bid a heartfelt farewell to the autumn season, I make it a tradition to watch A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. The timeless charm of Charlie Brown never fails to capture the essence of Thanksgiving Day. There’s truly no better way to usher out fall than by immersing yourself in the warmth of this classic Charlie Brown movie.
SUMMARY: Peppermint Patty invites everyone to Charlie Brown’s for Thanksgiving, even though he’s going to see his grandmother; Snoopy decides to cook his own version of a Thanksgiving meal with help from his friends.
WHERE TO WATCH: Apple TV (with subscription) or Stream on Apple TV for free on November 18th to the 19th
2. Over The Garden Wall (2014)
A standout in my recent fall favorites is Over The Garden Wall. Although categorized as a limited series, its episodic format, each running a concise ten minutes, equals the duration of an average movie. I find it delightful. The convenience of pausing midway adds to the appeal, ensuring a flexible viewing experience. The series exudes endearing warmth and a delightful touch of mystery, making it a perfect conclusion to the fall season, enveloping you in a cozy and enchanting ambiance.
SUMMARY: On an adventure, brothers Wirt and Greg get lost in the Unknown, a strange forest adrift in time; as they attempt to find a way out of the Unknown, they cross paths with a mysterious old woodsman and a bluebird named Beatrice.
WHERE TO WATCH: Hulu (with subscription), Amazon Prime Video Buy per episode ($1.99) or the Season ($9.99) https://amzn.to/3QV1mN9
3. Miracle on 34th Street (1947) or (1994)
To kick-off the Christmas season in cinematic style, look no further than Miracle on 34th Street. Whether you gravitate towards the timeless original from 1947 or the later 90s rendition, this movie stands as an indisputable classic. Opening with the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, it seamlessly ushers you into the festive atmosphere of Christmas. Miracle on 34th Street is a surefire way to swiftly immerse yourself in the holiday spirit and set the tone for the season.
SUMMARY: In this Christmas classic, an old man going by the name of Kris Kringle fills in for an intoxicated Santa in Macy’s annual Thanksgiving Day parade. Kringle proves to be such a hit that he is soon appearing regularly at the chain’s main store in midtown Manhattan. When Kringle surprises customers and employees alike by claiming that he really is Santa Claus, it leads to a court case to determine his mental health and, more importantly, his authenticity.
WHERE TO WATCH (1947 Version): Hulu (with subscription), Amazon Prime Video (with subscription), Disney+ (with subscription), Apple TV ($3.99), YouTube ($3.99)
WHERE TO WATCH (1994 Version): Hulu (with subscription), Amazon Prime Video ($3.79) https://amzn.to/49A2VY8, Apple TV ($3.99)
4. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)
My final Thanksgiving Day movie pick is Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. This comedy-drama, laced with moments that tug at the heartstrings, is the ideal choice for Thanksgiving viewing, setting the stage for the impending Christmas Season. Beyond the laughs and occasional tears, it serves as a poignant reminder that the holiday season transcends materialism and elaborate dinners. At its core, it resonates with the essence of humanity— highlighting the significance of love, kindness, and our connections with one another.
SUMMARY: Easily excitable Neal Page is somewhat of a control freak. Trying to get home to Chicago to spend Thanksgiving with his wife and kids, his flight is rerouted to a distant city in Kansas because of a freak snowstorm, and his sanity begins to fray. Worse yet, he is forced to bunk up with talkative Del Griffith, whom he finds extremely annoying. Together they must overcome the insanity of holiday travel to reach their intended destination.
WHERE TO WATCH: Pluto TV (FREE), Paramount+ (with subscription), Hulu (with premium subscription), Amazon Prime Video (with premium subscription), YouTube (with primetime subscription), Apple TV ($3.99)
Farewell Fall!
If you’re in search of Thanksgiving Day movie recommendations, consider giving these films a watch this year. They have the potential to capture your heart and undoubtedly immerse you in the spirit of the season. Wishing you a happy holiday!
