The 8 Best Thanksgiving TV Specials (That Aren’t Just Sitcom Episodes)
✦ Edited and fact-checked by Managing Editor Mike Strayer
While Thanksgiving TV is usually dominated by watching football and memorable sitcom episodes from shows like Cheers and Friends, here at CableTV.com, we wanted to revisit the best Thanksgiving TV specials that get us primed for turkey and awkward convos around the (early) dinner table.
Because what would Thanksgiving be without Tom Turkey and Santa from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or Charlie Brown and the Peanuts crew? With that in mind, here is a list of the most popular standalone Thanksgiving TV specials that we think are worth streaming this holiday season.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (1924–present)
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a staple of the holiday season since it began in 1924, and even more so since it was first broadcast on TV in 1939. The parade is a spectacular three-hour event featuring giant character balloons, floats, marching bands, and musical performances, culminating in the official arrival of Santa Claus, whose sleigh ride marks the start of the Christmas season.
You can find all the ways to watch the parade in our Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade guide. If that’s not your speed, check out our guide to watching your local parade.
The Mouse on the Mayflower (1968)
From Rankin/Bass and Toei Animation, The Mouse on the Mayflower is a beloved classic for those who grew up with it. The animated special tells the story of the Pilgrims’ journey on the Mayflower and their first year in America, all narrated by a small church mouse named Willum. Looking for a historical, song-filled special packed with charm from the golden age of holiday animation? The Mouse on the Mayflower is a delightful Thanksgiving treat.
Currently, you can find The Mouse on the Mayflower streaming on Dailymotion.
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
This is arguably the most essential Thanksgiving narrative special. When Peppermint Patty invites herself (and all her friends) over to “Chuck’s” for Thanksgiving dinner, Charlie Brown must whip up an unconventional feast. With help from Snoopy, Woodstock, and Linus, he prepares a “traditional” meal of buttered toast, jellybeans, popcorn, and pretzels. It’s a funny, sweet, timeless story about friendship, gratitude, and holiday chaos, all set to the iconic jazz score by Vince Guaraldi.
Where to stream A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
This is America, Charlie Brown: The Mayflower Voyagers (1988)
While A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is a story set around the holiday, this special from the This is America, Charlie Brown miniseries is a detailed and thoughtful history lesson for viewers. The Peanuts gang portrays the Pilgrims on their perilous journey across the ocean, their struggles to build a new home, and a historic first feast with their Wampanoag neighbors. The Mayflower Voyagers is supposed to be more educational than A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, but it’s since become a worthy holiday staple in its own right.
Where to stream This is America, Charlie Brown: The Mayflower Voyagers
Garfield’s Thanksgiving (1989)
The only thing Garfield hates more than raisins is a diet. So when Jon puts him on a strict pre-Thanksgiving diet, it’s safe to say he’s horrified. To make things worse, Jon invites Garfield’s vet (and Jon’s crush) Liz over for a big Thanksgiving dinner, but his attempts to cook a traditional meal are, unsurprisingly, a complete disaster. It’s up to Garfield, with some “help” from Odie, to save the day—and get him off his Liz-prescribed diet.
Where to stream Garfield’s Thanksgiving
The National Dog Show (2002–present)
In the last two decades, this has become a non-negotiable tradition for many families. Airing on NBC immediately after the Macy’s Parade, this Kennel Club of Philadelphia event is the perfect, low-stress, post-parade viewing. Hosted by actor John O’Hurley (Seinfeld, Spongebob Squarepants), the show features thousands of dogs competing for the coveted “Best in Show” title, providing endless “awws” and family-friendly entertainment.
Where to stream The National Dog Show
Saturday Night Live Thanksgiving Specials (1975–present)
SNL has been on the air for more than 50 years, and in its tenure, there have been hundreds of classic sketches. What’s great about a show that’s been around that long is its special episodes. When it comes to Thanksgiving, there are tons to choose from for those who love SNL and have some extra time on Turkey Day.
Luckily, fans can easily revisit all of the beloved sketches (“The Thanksgiving Song” S:18 E:7, anyone?) by streaming them on Peacock.
Thanksgiving TV specials FAQ
What are the most popular Thanksgiving specials to watch?
The most-watched and traditional Thanksgiving TV events are the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on NBC, followed immediately by The National Dog Show. For animated classics, the most famous and beloved special is, without a doubt, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.
Where can I watch A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving in 2025?
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is available to stream exclusively on Apple TV+. In previous years, Apple TV+ has made the special available to stream for free for a limited-time window (typically a few days) around the Thanksgiving holiday, even for non-subscribers.
What are the most famous Thanksgiving episodes from TV shows?
While the list above focuses on standalone specials, many of the most famous "Thanksgiving specials" are actually episodes from popular sitcoms. The most iconic examples include:
- Friends ("The One with All the Thanksgivings" or "The One Where Ross Got High")
- Cheers ("Thanksgiving Orphans")
- WKRP in Cincinnati ("Turkeys Away")
- The Simpsons ("Bart vs. Thanksgiving")
- Bob's Burgers (Any of their many Thanksgiving episodes)
