Leading up to the big feast on Thursday is an exciting time in my household. The big grocery run, the recipes printed out in the kitchen, Food Network constantly playing in the background as we watch all the Thanksgiving specials. Thanksgiving is such a special time of year. Plus it is a holiday revolved around food, so who doesn’t love it!?
As I reflect on what I am thankful for this year, I am truly gracious for where my life is right now. It has definitely been a bumpy ride, and I know there will be more mountains in the future, but I am really content currently. Things are starting to work out, go my way, and feel right.
Whether it is leading up to the big event or it’s that post-Turkey Day, food coma-induced curled up on the couch after-dinner nothing beats a classic Thanksgiving episode. That is if you can change the channel from football. Here are my favorite Thanksgiving episodes that pair well with a full belly and an accidental snooze on the couch:
Gossip Girl — “Blair Waldorf Must Pie!” (Season 1, Episode 9)
Where to stream: HBO Max
I had to start with my favorite Thanksgiving episode EVER! Oh, what fun it is to go back into the Gossip Girl archives! This episode is the epitome of awkward and messy family Thanksgivings but drives the message home that at the end of the day, as long as you have your people, you’ll be just fine.
Gilmore Girls — “A Deep-Fried Korean Thanksgiving” (Season 3, Episode 9)
Where to stream: Netflix
What to do when four parties expect you to show up for Thanksgiving festivities? Well, if you’re Lorelai and Rory, you do your best to make it all work. While the girls succeed, I crown Sookie the queen of this episode. Getting hilariously drunk after your husband tries to deep fry a turkey is the ultimate move.
Friends — “The One with All the Thanksgivings” (Season 5, Episode 8)
Where to stream: HBO Max
Another classic Thanksgiving episode. This episode of Friends is the ultimate blast from the past. Between Joey getting his head lodged in a raw turkey and Monica plotting her revenge against an insulting Chandler, we get a glimpse of the crew’s Thanksgivings past that are sure to bring the laughs.
Friday Night Lights — “Thanksgiving” (Season 4, Episode 13)
Where to stream: Netflix, Hulu
In this season four finale, the Taylors host Thanksgiving dinner before the big game against the Dillon Panthers. Watching this high-stakes game will have you on the edge of your seat and cheering for the East Dillon Lions. Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can’t Lose. I will forever have a crush on Tim Riggins!
Grey’s Anatomy — “Thanks for the Memories” (Season 2, Episode 9)
Where to stream: Netflix
If Thanksgiving is your holiday, then you and Izzie Stevens might get along well. Unfortunately for Izzie, she doesn’t know how to meet her own perfect dinner expectations while her friends are looking for any and every excuse to stay away. When Burke comes in to save the day, she wonders if her friends will even show at all. This one gives you all the feels with some old characters!
Glee — “Thanksgiving” (Season 4, Episode 8)
Where to stream: Netflix
This episode of Glee is the unconventional Thanksgiving episode you didn’t know you needed. With some zesty musical mashups, some good old sectionals prep, and rocky relationships, there’s something in this feature for everyone.
New Girl — “Parents” (Season 2, Episode 8)
Where to stream: Netflix
In the ultimate Parent Trap attempt to rekindle her parents, Jess invites her divorced parents to Thanksgiving dinner. After Jess sees the pair smooch, she hopes that the two can set aside their differences to fulfill the family unit of Jess’s dreams.
This Is Us — “Pilgrim Rick” (Season 1, Episode 8)
Where to stream: Hulu
Looking for the feels this Thanksgiving? Look no further than this episode. It is wholesome, will make you smile, and may induce tears (you’ve been warned). It’s a story about how Thanksgiving traditions come to be and may give you more perspective on your next unexpected detour.
Riverdale — “Chapter Sixty-Four: The Ice Storm” (Season 4, Episode 7)
Where to stream: Netflix
Riverdale’s Thanksgiving feature is a heartfelt tear-jerker that will leave you a bit melancholy. PSA: Only watch this if you’re caught up on the season or don’t mind some major spoilers!
Modern Family — “Three Turkeys” (Season 6, Episode 8)
Where to stream: Amazon
This classic Modern Family episode brings joy period. If your typical Thanksgivings are a bit of a hot mess, the nostalgia will hit hard.
Orange Is The New Black — “F…sgiving” (Season 1, Episode 9)
Where to stream: Netflix
OK, friends, let’s be real here. If you’re looking for a feel-good Thanksgiving feature, this simply is not it. OITNB fans won’t be surprised as this episode’s dark, twisty humor and drama are completely on par with the rest of the series. In this episode, Piper lands herself in solitary confinement for “inappropriate behavior” and thus loses her visiting privileges on Thanksgiving.
How are you preparing for Turkey day?
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