Free Printable Alert: Thanksgiving Charades for All Ages
It’s time to spice up your Thanksgiving gathering with a game that’s more fun than Uncle Bob’s post-dinner nap.
Welcome to Thanksgiving Charades, where everyone’ll act like total goof balls in front of everyone else AND actually enjoy it.
Believe me, it’s more fun than it sounds.
I promise I’ve played this game tons of times, and it’s always a hit.
Come check it out!
Thanksgiving Charades: Act Like a Total Goofball (Silently)
Let’s break it down, shall we? Thanksgiving Charades is all about conveying words or phrases without uttering a single sound.
Yep, you heard me right – it’s time to channel your inner mime and pray your family can read your mind.
Or at least your wild hand and leg movements.
Here’s the gist:
- Split into teams (choose wisely, you’re stuck with them)
- Draw a word or phrase slip from a bowl of Thanksgiving-themed clues (if you need some Thanksgiving charades words, I have a free printable below that’ll work like a charm, cuz I like you!)
- One brave soul acts out the clue without speaking, using only gestures, facial expressions, and body language.
- Their teammates try to guess before time runs out. Score a point for each correct answer, and if they fail, the other team can steal.
If you thought charades was a blast, you ain’t seen nothing yet. Gobble up these Thanksgiving Minute to Win It challenges and Gratitude Game printable. They’re so good, you might forget about the pie. (Just kidding, never forget the pie.)
Setting the Stage: Prep Work for the Theatrically Challenged
Before you dive into the world of silent drama, you’ll need to set the scene.
Here’s your to-do list:
- Clear some space where everyone can see each other (actually A LOT of space)
- Prepare a bowl of charade words. Mix it up with easy ones like “turkey” and harder ones like “existential dread.” (the more unique and funny, the better)
- Set a timer for one minute (60 seconds of pure, unadulterated hilariousness)
Remember, the key is to create an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable making a complete fool of themselves.
Think trust fall, but with much more flailing.
Scoring: Because Everything’s a Competition
- One point for each correct guess within the time limit.
- If the acting team can’t guess, the other team can steal the point. It’s like taking candy from a baby, but the baby is your cousin who’s terrible at charades.
The Rules of Engagement: Silence is Golden (and Hilarious)
Alright, let’s lay down the law:
- No talking: Your mouth is now just for stuffing with turkey
- No spelling: This isn’t a spelling bee, Shakespeare
- No props: Your body is your canvas, use it wisely
- One minute: That’s all you get to convey your brilliance
Costume Roulette (optional) : Before the game, throw a bunch of ridiculous accessories into a box. Toss in feather boas, fake mustaches, oversized sunglasses – the works. Each player must grab a random item and incorporate it into their charade. Nothing says “Mayflower” like a dude in a Viking helmet, am I right?
Charade Clues: Don’t Be a Turkey
When acting out clues, think everyday actions. Pretend to read a book for “book” or mimic cranking an old-fashioned camera for “movie.” Here’s a handy table of classic charade gestures:
| Gesture | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hold up fingers | Number of words |
| Tug on ear | Sounds like |
| Point to self | The word is about you |
| Flap arms like a chicken | You’re terrible at this game (stop, just stop) |
Let’s be real – charades are fun, but pie is life. Snag a slice of that apple perfection between turns. Your taste buds will thank you, and you might just nail that ‘stuffed’ charade. For pie-spiration, check out – Apple Ginger Pie: A Blissful Balance of Tart and Sweet
Charades for All: From Tots to Gramps
The beauty of this game is that anyone can play.
Kids, teens, adults, even your cat if it’s feeling particularly expressive. Adapt the game to fit your group:
Got a mix of ages? No problem! Here’s how to make it work:
- For Kids: Use simple words like “turkey” or “pie”
- For Teens: Try pop culture references (warning: you might feel old)
- For Adults: Go for more complex phrases or inside family jokes
- For Granddad: Just let him nap, he’s earned it
Spice It Up: Traditional Variations with a Twist
Want to take your game to the next level? Try these variations:
- Reverse Charades: The whole team acts, one person guesses. Think flash mob, but less coordinated.
- Speed Round: Act out as many clues as possible in 2 minute – basically charades on steroids.
- Props Allowed: Introduce props for added hilariousness. Just don’t let Grandma use the carving knife.
Benefits: It’s Not All Fun and Games… Oh Wait, It Is!
Playing Thanksgiving Charades isn’t just about everyone looking ridiculous for laughs (though that’s a big part of it).
There’s also some great benefits:
- Family Bonding: Nothing brings people together like shared embarrassment
- Creativity Boost: You’ll be amazed at how creative you get when desperate
- Non-Verbal Communication: Great practice for when your mouth is full of stuffing
Charades Against Humanity: For the adults-only after-dinner game or if you’re doing an adults-only FRIENDSGIVING, mix in some cards from Cards Against Humanity with your regular charades clues. Watch your friend Carl try to act out “Harry Potter erotica” while keeping a straight face – if he can. (Disclaimer: I’m not responsible for any therapy sessions that may result.)
Creating a Tradition: Because Well…They’re Kinda Fun
Let’s face it, folks. Your family gatherings could use a little spicing up. Why not throw Thanksgiving Charades into the mix?
Kinda like adding hot sauce to your pumpkin pie – unexpected, potentially disastrous, but oh-so-worth it.
Here’s why you should embrace this new tradition:
- Hilarious Memories: Nothing says “family bonding” like watching Grandad try to act out “twerking.”
- Potential Pulled Muscles: Finally, a legitimate excuse to skip out on Black Friday shopping!
- Universal Agreement: For once, everyone will agree on something – that you’re hilariously bad at acting.
Trust me, I’ve been subjecting my family and friends to this game for years.
It’s a refreshing break from arguing about politics or who’s stuffing recipe is the best. #justsayin’
Instead, we’re united in our collective embarrassment and silliness.
It’s beautiful, really.
Here’s a handy table to help you convince your family and friends to embrace this new tradition:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Laughing burns calories | May pull a muscle from excessive gesturing |
| Creates inside jokes | Those inside jokes may haunt you for years |
| Distracts from awkward conversations | Creates new awkward moments to discuss next year |
| Improves non-verbal communication | May lead to accidental mime career |
So go ahead, be the change you want to see in your family gatherings. Introduce Thanksgiving Charades and watch as your relatives transform from judgmental critics to uncoordinated performers.
Remember, family traditions are just inside jokes with a longer shelf life.
Might as well make them as ridiculous as possible!
Gobble Up This Free Thanksgiving Charades Game Printable
Our FREE Thanksgiving Charades printable is practically begging to be snagged.
Download it and then immediately stick a post-it on your forehead that says “PRINT CHARADES GAME!”
Trust me, you don’t want to be the turkey who forgets the one thing that could save your family from another year of awkward silences and TV football zombies.
Your future self will thank you!
Your Turn
What’s the funniest misinterpretation you’ve ever witnessed during a charades game? (I’m talking “Titanic” turning into “constipated whale” level of misunderstanding here!)