10 Catchy Thanksgiving Songs to Get Kids Grooving on Turkey Day

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning for a day filled with gratitude, family, and of course, delicious turkey! But what if you could add an extra element of fun and excitement to your Thanksgiving celebration? Imagine the kids grooving to catchy tunes that capture the spirit of the holiday. Well, look no further because we’ve got you covered with a handpicked selection of 10 catchy Thanksgiving songs for kids that will get your little ones dancing and singing along all day long.

Forget about the traditional Thanksgiving tunes that tend to be slow and melodic – these songs are all about energy, rhythm, and pure joy. Whether you’re hosting a lively Thanksgiving party or simply want to infuse some extra cheer into your family gathering, these songs will be the perfect addition to your Turkey Day playlist. From playful tunes that tell the story of Thanksgiving to upbeat tracks that encourage movement and laughter, there’s something for every child to enjoy. It’s not easy to find Thanksgiving songs that are both kid-friendly and entertaining but we have scoured the depths of the internet to bring you a diverse collection of songs that will make this Thanksgiving one to remember.


daily mom parent portal thanksgiving songs for kids

The Importance of Music In Holiday Celebrations

Music plays a significant role in holiday traditions and celebrations, including Thanksgiving, across cultures, serving as a powerful means of expressing joy, capturing the spirit of the season, and fostering a sense of togetherness. Whether it’s the lively carols sung during Christmas, the soul-stirring hymns in church services, or the cheerful tunes played at festive gatherings, music has the ability to evoke nostalgia, create a festive atmosphere, and unite individuals in shared celebrations.

Additionally, holiday songs often convey meaningful messages of love, peace, and the importance of family and community, reinforcing the values associated with this special time of year. From religious ceremonies to family gatherings, music has become an integral part of holiday traditions, enriching the experience and creating lasting memories for generations to come. When it comes to Thanksgiving songs for kids, the right tunes can get them grooving on Turkey Day and make for some memorable moments.

Thanksgiving songs for kids or other holidays generally have catchy melodies and lyrics that capture the spirit of gratitude and togetherness. These songs often incorporate themes like family, food, and thankfulness, creating a fun and engaging experience for children. And it helps them learn about the holiday they’re celebrating. Whether it’s singing along to classics like “Turkey in the Straw” or dancing to upbeat tunes like “The Turkey Hop,” these songs bring a sense of excitement to the holiday.

Read More: 7 Ways to be Thankful at Thanksgiving – Teaching Children To Be Thoughtful, Helpful, Grateful

By including music, especially Thanksgiving songs for kids in your celebrations, you create a memorable and enjoyable experience for the young ones and older family members alike. It encourages them to express themselves, engage with others, and appreciate the significance of Thanksgiving.

daily mom parent portal thanksgiving songs for kids

Criteria for Selecting Catchy Thanksgiving Songs for Kids

When it comes to selecting Thanksgiving songs for kids, there are a few key criteria to keep in mind. The songs should definitely be catchy and engaging to capture the attention of young listeners. Look for tunes with upbeat melodies and catchy lyrics that will get kids grooving on Turkey Day. Songs with hand gestures and movements are even better!

Another important factor to consider is the age-appropriateness of the songs. Make sure the lyrics and themes are suitable for children of all ages. Songs that teach gratitude, celebrate family and friends, and highlight the spirit of Thanksgiving is always a great choice. Turkeys doing something silly always seems to be a favorite too.

Of course, it’s important to look for songs that are easy to learn and sing along to. Simple melodies and repetitive choruses are ideal for encouraging participation and creating a festive atmosphere. Kids will be able to quickly pick them up, and family members new to the song will easily be able to join in too.

Read More: 42 Hilarious Jokes for Thanksgiving to Make the Family Gobble and Giggle
daily mom parent portal thanksgiving songs for kids

Additional Tips for a Memorable Thanksgiving Celebration

Make a Thanksgiving playlist filled with catchy songs for kids to keep them entertained and grooving on Turkey Day. While “Turkey in the Straw” and “The Turkey Trot” are classic choices, consider adding modern tunes like “Thanksgiving Rap” or “Gobble Gobble” for a fun twist. Get creative with a mix of genres to cater to everyone’s musical tastes.

Engage the young ones in Thanksgiving-themed crafts and activities. Set up a craft station with materials for making handprint turkeys or create a gratitude jar where kids can write down what they’re thankful for. You can also organize a turkey-themed scavenger hunt or a friendly game of Thanksgiving trivia to keep the festive spirit alive.

Encourage children to get involved in the kitchen. Assign them age-appropriate tasks like stirring batter, setting the table, or decorating cupcakes. This not only keeps them occupied but also teaches them the importance of teamwork and responsibility.

By incorporating catchy Thanksgiving songs, engaging activities, and involving children in the preparations, you can create a memorable and enjoyable Thanksgiving celebration for the whole family.

Read More: 12 Scrumptious Thanksgiving Desserts for Kids That Bring Delicious Joy to the Holiday
daily mom parent portal thanksgiving songs for kids

Tips for Incorporating Music Into Your Celebration

If you’re looking to add some musical flair to your Thanksgiving celebration consider creating a generally background playlist of Thanksgiving songs for kids and adults alike. This will not only keep the little ones entertained but also introduce them to the spirit of gratitude. Look for catchy tunes that capture the essence of Thanksgiving, such as songs about family, food, and giving thanks.

If you’re adventurous and want to incorporate music into your Thanksgiving festivities how about organizing a karaoke session? Set up a karaoke machine and let your guests take turns belting out their favorite tunes. This interactive activity will surely bring laughter and joy to your gathering. To make it even more exciting, you could even have a friendly competition and award a prize to the best singer. So, don’t forget to include music and these Thanksgiving songs for kids in your holiday plans to create a memorable and harmonious celebration.

10 Thanksgiving Songs for Kids

I’m Thankful

This song is perfect for a general “I’m Thankful”. Isn’t that what Thanksgiving is all about? As the title suggests, Thanksgiving songs for kids should beautifully encapsulate the true meaning of Thanksgiving – gratitude. It serves as a gentle reminder for kids to express thankfulness for the blessings in their lives.

“I’m Thankful” is an upbeat and catchy tune that gets children grooving with its lively melody and positive lyrics. It encourages them to reflect on the things they are grateful for, such as family, friends, good health, and the simple joys of life. This song helps instill a sense of appreciation and mindfulness in young hearts, fostering a spirit of gratitude beyond the holiday season.

Read More: 5 Types of Stores Open on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Dinner

This cute song is all about the food you eat at Thanksgiving. You’ll recognize the melody, but the words are all new and perfect for little ones to follow along with as it repeats. Sing along and learn with The Kiboomers! Thanksgiving Dinner” is one of many delightful Thanksgiving songs for kids that adds a fun twist to the traditional holiday meal. This song not only entertains but also educates young ones about the different dishes served during the festive occasion. It’s a wonderful way for kids to express their excitement for the holiday and appreciate the special meal shared with loved ones.

Read More: How to Decorate for a Simple Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Freeze Dance

This song will be sure to get the entire family up and moving after all that heavy food. Kids LOVE this song, and it’s even better when it’s Thanksgiving-themed! It’s a fun and engaging song that adds a festive twist to the holiday celebration. After enjoying a delicious Thanksgiving meal, this song will encourage the whole family to dance off those extra calories. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to have a blast with this Thanksgiving-themed song!

Turkey Hokey-Pokey

Of course everyone will know this one too! This one is the perfect motivator to start moving after all that turkey sets in. Kids and adults alike absolutely adore the “Turkey Hokey Pokey.” This lively tune is a hit amongst children because it’s so easy to follow along. With its catchy lyrics and simple dance moves, the Hokey Pokey brings joy and excitement to the holiday festivities. It’s a fantastic way for the whole family to bond and create lasting memories together. So make sure you put this one on your Thanksgiving songs for kids list.

Autumn Leaves Are Falling Down

A great way to kick off the Thanksgiving season is to learn about the actual season it falls in – autumn. This is one of the cutest Thanksgiving songs for kids and is perfect for learning all about why we call it “fall” – the falling leaves!

Albuquerque Turkey

OK, common. You have to admit, even the name Albuquerque is hilarious in itself. Pair that with a silly turkey and you’ve got yourself one of the funniest Thanksgiving songs for kids that both they and adults are going to enjoy.

10 Little Turkeys

An easy one to learn and remember, 10 Little Turkeys is a take on a song we already all know, so it’s easy to pick up on the spot for those who didn’t rehearse. This is the perfect Thanksgiving songs for kids that use hand gestures. So get your fingers up and for the 10 turkeys and count down.

Run Away, Mr. Turkey!

Run Away, Mr. Turkey” is a wonderful song to play on Thanksgiving because it captures the spirit of the holiday in a way that resonates with children. Its catchy melody and playful lyrics tell the story of a turkey’s humorous escapades as it tries to avoid becoming the centerpiece of the Thanksgiving feast. This lighthearted theme adds a touch of excitement and laughter to the celebration, making it one of the delightful Thanksgiving songs for kids and young ones. The song’s simplicity makes it easy for kids to sing along, fostering a sense of participation and engagement during Thanksgiving gatherings.

Little Pilgrim

“Little Pilgrim” is a heartwarming song to play on Thanksgiving because it beautifully encapsulates the historical and emotional essence of the holiday. Through its gentle melody and tender lyrics, this is one of the cute Thanksgiving songs for kids that tells the story of the Pilgrims who journeyed to the New World in search of freedom and the Native Americans who extended a hand of friendship. This song educates children about the history and significance of Thanksgiving, promoting an understanding of gratitude, unity, and the importance of coming together.

The Turkey Hop

With its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics, this song encourages children to get up and dance, creating a festive atmosphere during gatherings. The song’s playful portrayal of a turkey doing the “hop” adds a sense of whimsy and humor to the celebration, making it enjoyable for kids and adults alike. “The Turkey Hop” often involves dance moves or gestures that kids can easily follow, promoting physical activity and engagement. This interactive element adds a fun and dynamic dimension to Thanksgiving festivities, making is a delightful choice for celebrating the holiday with enthusiasm and joy. So make sure you add this one and all of the Thanksgiving songs for kids to your playlist.


If you’re looking to make this Thanksgiving one to remember, don’t forget to include some catchy tunes in your celebration. Our handpicked selection of 10 Thanksgiving songs for kids will get your little ones grooving and singing along all day long. These energetic and joyful Thanksgiving songs for kids are a refreshing departure from the traditional slow and melodic tunes, and they are guaranteed to infuse your Thanksgiving gathering with extra cheer and excitement. From playful tracks that tell the story of Thanksgiving to upbeat Thanksgiving songs for kids that encourage movement and laughter, there’s something for every child to enjoy.

WANT TO READ MORE?
7 Ways to be Thankful at Thanksgiving – Teaching Children To Be Thoughtful, Helpful, Grateful

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Lauren Austin
Lauren Austinhttp://www.financialfundaments.com
She's a full-time Financial Coach, professional designer, and part-time home DIYer. As a business owner of Financial Fundaments, and an awesome mom to 3 young kids, she has a full plate but loves every minute of it. Lauren became a Daily Mom to satisfy her need for writing while helping other moms take control of their financial health.

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