Ranking the Best Thanksgiving Episodes of TV Shows

By: Madison Howard, Contributor

During the holiday season, television delivers some of its most memorable episodes. Thanksgiving is not featured as often as other holidays, but when it is, the episodes capture chaos, family dynamics and unexpected moments that make the holiday special. Here is a ranking of some of the best Thanksgiving episodes across television. 

9. Full House: The Miracle of Thanksgiving (Season 1, Episode 9) 

The Tanner family celebrates their first Thanksgiving without Pam, Danny’s wife and the children’s mom, while trying to keep the day running smoothly and manage family challenges. Its heartfelt moments make this episode a touching and memorable holiday installment. 

8. Black-ish: Auntsgiving (Season 3, Episode 7) 

The Johnson family gathers for Thanksgiving, but tensions rise when Aunt Ruby invites her sister Georgia, reigniting old family conflicts. Dre tries to manage the situation, Bow stays neutral and the kids get caught in the middle. The episode showcases family dynamics, making it a memorable holiday installment. 

7. Good Luck Charlie: Battle of the Bands / Thanksgiving (Season 2, Episode 22) 

The Duncan family prepares for Thanksgiving while dealing with conflicts over competing activities, as Teddy wants to participate in a band competition, and Amy insists on sticking to traditional holiday plans. PJ and Gabe add to the chaos, making the day more complicated.  

6. The Simpsons: Bart vs. Thanksgiving (Season 2, Episode 7) 

The Simpsons prepare for Thanksgiving, but tension arises when Bart accidentally ruins Lisa’s special centerpiece, leading to arguments between the siblings. Bart runs away from home, and the family navigates the resulting chaos. The humor, sibling rivalry and heartfelt moments throughout the episode make it a great episode. 

5. iCarly: iWant Thanksgiving (Season 2, Episode 9) 

Carly and Spencer planned to host Thanksgiving, but the day quickly turned chaotic with mishaps in the kitchen and unexpected guests. Freddie’s mother also tries to take control of the celebration, adding to the confusion. The friendship dynamics and lively chaos throughout the episode make it a fun holiday special. 

4. Friends: The One With the Rumor (Season 8, Episode 9) 

Monica hosts Thanksgiving while Ross brings an old high school friend, sparking awkward tension when past high school activities resurface. Joey attempts to tackle an enormous turkey while Phoebe tries to keep the peace.  

3. Grey’s Anatomy: Thanks for the Memories (Season 2, Episode 9) 

Izzie hosts her first Thanksgiving dinner despite never having cooked before, while Meredith and the hospital staff juggle work and personal challenges. The mix of holiday stress makes this episode a memorable and relatable Thanksgiving special. 

2. Bob’s Burgers: Turkey in a Can (Season 4, Episode 5) 

Bob spends the day preparing the turkey for Thanksgiving only to have it end up in the toilet again and again. As he tries to find the culprit, the chaos of the family builds around him. 

1. New Girl:  Parents (Season 2, Episode 8) 

Jess tries to reunite her divorced parents with a “Parent Trap” plan, involving the entire loft. Of course, things don’t go as planned, but the humor and antics throughout the episode make this one of the best Thanksgiving episodes. 

These shows are just a few of the standout Thanksgiving-themed episodes on television. Each one captures heartfelt moments and the chaos of family dinners, highlighting the unique spirit of the holiday. From animated classics to sitcom favorites and family dramas, these episodes are a great way to revisit cherished traditions or discover new holiday memories.