10 Best Thanksgiving TV Episodes to Binge After the Feast
We are so thankful to the television industry for creating such wonderful shows.
While Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones and feasting on turkey and cranberry sauce, it's also the perfect time to sit around the television and enjoy some classic holiday episodes of your favorite TV shows.
Here are the top 10 Thanksgiving TV episodes we are forever thankful for.
10. Friends
The One with All the Thanksgivings (Season 5, Episode 8)
In this all-time favorite Friends episode, the gang reminisces about their worst Thanksgivings through a series of hilarious flashbacks. From Joey getting his head stuck in a turkey to Monica accidentally cutting off Chandler's toe, the episode is a laugh-out-loud trip down memory lane.
The episode captures the essence of Friends with humor, camaraderie, and a touch of awe-inspiring moments, including a final romantic one from Chandler.
9. The Office
WUPHF.com (Season 7, Episode 9)
The Dunder Mifflin gang takes Thanksgiving to a whole new level with the introduction of Ryan's social media project, WUPHF.com. Meanwhile, Dwight Schrute aims to recreate a cherished childhood memory by organizing his version of Hay Place in the Scranton branch parking lot for Thanksgiving.
As he becomes consumed with his dream of becoming the Hay King and turning a substantial profit, Dwight unintentionally jeopardizes his relationship with Angela. The episode takes a comedic and heartfelt look at Dwight's ambitions, the dynamics of office relationships, and the unexpected twists that holiday events can bring.
8. How I Met Your Mother
Slapsgiving (Season 3, Episode 9)
Thanksgiving and slap bets collide in this How I Met Your Mother gem as Lily and Marshall navigate hosting their first Thanksgiving as a married couple, while Barney anxiously awaits the third slap in the infamous bet.
The tension builds as Ted and Robin's unexpected night together adds an awkward twist to the holiday celebration. Packed with humor, awkward encounters, and the long-awaited slap, Slapsgiving is a fan-favorite episode that perfectly blends comedy and Thanksgiving chaos.
7. Parks and Recreation
Harvest Festival (Season 3, Episode 7)
The Parks and Recreation team hosts the Pawnee Harvest Festival, making this Thanksgiving episode a delightful mix of Leslie Knope's enthusiasm and the quirky antics of the Pawnee residents.
Fueled by her determination, Leslie Knope strives to make this year's festival the best yet, but things take an unexpected turn when a Wamapoke tribal leader places a curse on the event and the beloved miniature horse Li'l Sebastian goes missing. The episode blends humor, holiday spirit, and Leslie's unwavering commitment to creating memorable community events.
6. Brooklyn Nine-Nine
Thanksgiving (Season 1, Episode 10)
In Brooklyn Nine-Nine's first Thanksgiving episode, Amy Santiago takes center stage as she invites the entire department over for Thanksgiving. The holiday get-together becomes an opportunity for employees to bond outside of the workplace, but the festive spirit takes a humorous turn when they discover that Amy's culinary skills may not be as impressive as her detective work.
The episode combines the dynamics of a workplace family celebrating Thanksgiving, adding a touch of comedic chaos to the traditional holiday feast.
5. The Sopranos
He Is Risen (Season 3, Episode 8)
Thanksgiving takes a darker turn on The Sopranos as Tony Soprano grapples with the aftermath of a gruesome crime committed by an associate. In a rare display of morality, Tony attempts to disinvite this troubled associate from his family's Thanksgiving celebration.
The episode provides a unique glimpse into the complex world of the Soprano family, showing Tony's inner struggles and the challenges of maintaining a semblance of sanity in the midst of criminality. As always, The Sopranos delivers a gripping narrative, making this episode a dramatic and intense addition to your Thanksgiving TV marathon.
4. Gossip Girl
Blair Waldorf Must Pie! (Season 1, Episode 9)
This episode is Gossip Girl's glamorous take on Thanksgiving, complete with scandal, secrets, and lavish feasts. The holiday takes a dramatic turn for the Upper East Siders when Dan invites Serena and her family to spend Thanksgiving with the Humphreys, leading to awkward moments for Rufus and Lily due to their unconventional romantic history.
Meanwhile, Blair experiences emotional turmoil when she discovers that her father won't be joining her for the holiday, creating a drama with Blair, of course, at the center of the chaos.
3. Succession
I Went to Market (Season 1, Episode 5)
Succession's holiday episode is a powerful family drama as the Roy family troubles take a Thanksgiving twist. The episode is a must-watch as Logan Roy's estranged brother, Ewan, makes a significant appearance, adding tension to an already troubled family dynamic.
As the Roys navigate their complex relationships, the Thanksgiving backdrop adds an extra layer of intensity to the narrative, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
2. Modern Family
Punkin Chunkin (Season 3, Episode 9)
The Pritchett-Dunphy-Tucker clan celebrates Thanksgiving with their unique blend of chaos and heartwarming moments. When a wealthy former neighbor returns, Haley jumps at the chance to argue against the necessity of college, while Jay thinks Manny needs some constructive criticism, leading to amusing moments.
Meanwhile, Cameron finds himself on the defensive when Mitchell questions the authenticity of his vivid childhood stories, including the memorable "punkin chunkin" tale. This episode showcases the show’s signature blend of humor and valuable life lessons, making it a standout Thanksgiving addition.
1. Friends (Again)
The One With the Rumor (Season 8, Episode 9)
Yes, Friends makes the list twice because, let's face it, they know how to celebrate Thanksgiving. In this episode, Brad Pitt guest stars as Will Colbert, a high school friend with a Thanksgiving secret.
Pitt plays a character who co-founded the "I Hate Rachel Green Club," adding a layer of irony to the festivities. The episode becomes even more entertaining as Phoebe develops a crush on this less-than-likable character. With its witty humor and celebrity cameos, this Friends Thanksgiving episode remains a cult classic.