Best Thanksgiving TV Shows: A Feast of Laughs, Drama, and Traditions

Get ready to add some entertainment to your Thanksgiving festivities with the best Thanksgiving TV shows! Whether you're a fan of classic sitcoms like "Everybody Loves Raymond" and "How I Met Your Mother," or prefer more recent hits like "The Mindy Project" and "This Is Us," there's something on this list to satisfy every TV lover's craving. From hilarious mishaps to heartfelt family moments, these Thanksgiving episodes will keep you entertained and in the holiday spirit. So, grab a plate of leftovers, cozy up on the couch, and get ready to indulge in the best Thanksgiving TV shows that will leave you feeling thankful for great television.

Thanksgiving, The Mindy Project

Mindy meets Geeta - The Mindy Project

Watch onLeave it to Mindy Lahiri to crank up the drama on Thanksgiving. At her friend Gwen's dinner, Mindy is shocked to encounter her ex, Dennis, with his new Indian girlfriend. Things escalate quickly, and Mindy and Gwen end up in a heated brawl, proving that Friendsgiving can be just as tumultuous as a family Thanksgiving.

Blair Waldorf Must Pie, Gossip Girl

Blair's Breakdown

Watch onGossip Girl always delivers on Thanksgiving episodes, but the very first one sets the tone for the tradition. In "Blair Waldorf Must Pie," we dive into Lily and Rufus' complicated romantic history and witness Serena stumbling drunkenly to Nelly Furtado's "Promiscuous." It's an episode that captures the essence of teenage drama and angst.

Turkey or Fish, Everybody Loves Raymond

Fish & Fowl | Everybody Loves Raymond | TV Land

Watch onDebra decides to start her own Thanksgiving tradition by cooking fish alongside the turkey instead of going to Raymond's parents' house. However, this doesn't go over well, especially with Raymond's mother, Marie Barone.

Thanksgiving, That '70s Show

Thanksgiving Clip 1 - S1, Ep10

Watch onLaurie brings a friend home for Thanksgiving, which causes tension between Eric and Donna. It's an episode that portrays the stress and challenges of being a teenager, without the added worries of adult life.

Master of None — “Thanksgiving” (Season 2, Episode 8)

Where to stream:Netflix

Source:Netflix

This Thanksgiving episode of Master of None is exceptional. It has been acclaimed with an Emmy for best comedy series writing. The episode takes us through a decade of Thanksgiving memories as Denise experiences personal growth and seeks acceptance from her family.

Fresh Off the Boat — “Huangsgiving” (Season 2, Episode 8)

Where to stream:Hulu

Source:Hulu

Jessica's family has a unique Thanksgiving tradition of early morning phone calls to determine the host. In this hilarious episode, Sookie steals the show with her antics after her husband's failed attempt at deep-frying a turkey.

New Girl — “Thanksgiving IV” (Season 4, Episode 9)

Where to stream:Netflix

Source:Netflix

In this episode, Schmidt encourages everyone to bring a compatible date to a themed Thanksgiving gathering. It's a hilarious and entertaining event that highlights the dynamics between the characters.

Parents, New Girl

Watch onJess's parents, Rob Reiner and Jamie Lee Curtis, join the Thanksgiving celebrations at the loft. Despite being divorced, they soon discover that their chemistry is still very much alive, leading to comedic scenes of their real-life friendship.

Slapsgiving, How I Met Your Mother

Watch onIn this Thanksgiving episode, the tension rises as Barney anxiously awaits Ted to slap him for the third time. It's a unique storyline that's hard to explain but definitely keeps you engaged.

Gilmore Girls — “A Deep-Fried Korean Thanksgiving” (Season 3, Episode 9)

Where to stream:Netflix

Source:Netflix

Lorelai and Rory navigate the challenge of attending multiple Thanksgiving parties. Sookie steals the show with her drunken antics after her husband's failed deep-fried turkey attempt.

One Tree Hill — “Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace” (Season 8, Episode 9)

Where to stream:HBO Max

Source:HBO Max

Thanksgiving dinner at Nathan and Haley's takes an unexpected turn when Brooke's plans fall apart, and Skills mistakenly orders a live turkey. Amid rising tension, Haley delivers a heartfelt speech reminding everyone to be grateful. The episode concludes with a friendly game of touch football.

This Is Us — “Pilgrim Rick” (Season 1, Episode 8)

Where to stream:Hulu

Source:Hulu

This heartwarming episode explores the origins of Thanksgiving traditions and offers a fresh perspective on unexpected detours in life.

Friday Night Lights — “Thanksgiving” (Season 4, Episode 13)

Where to stream:Hulu

Source:Hulu

In the season four finale, the Taylors host Thanksgiving dinner before a big football game. The episode captures the excitement and tension of the game as fans root for the East Dillon Lions.

Grey's Anatomy — “Thanks for the Memories”

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Seattle's talented doctors try to find time to celebrate Thanksgiving amidst their busy work lives. Their holiday experiences range from hiding and playing to hunting turkeys.

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These Thanksgiving TV shows are sure to add some extra warmth and laughter to your holiday. From the hilariously relatable antics of "The Mindy Project" to the dramatic twists of "Gossip Girl," there's something for everyone to enjoy. Get ready to feast on the hilarious misunderstandings of "Everybody Loves Raymond," reminisce with the gang from "That 70s Show," and dive into the complexities of family dynamics with "Master of None" and "Fresh Off the Boat." Don't forget to catch the unforgettable Thanksgiving moments in "New Girl," "How I Met Your Mother," "Gilmore Girls," "One Tree Hill," "This Is Us," "Friday Night Lights," and "Grey's Anatomy." So, grab a plate of leftovers and settle in for a TV marathon that will leave you feeling thankful for the power of great storytelling.