Is it just me, or does summer vacation start with ambitious plans of nostalgic 1990s style summer fun activities and end with kids who’ve forgotten how to tie their shoes while setting a new world record for consecutive days of dirty hair and cups of Goldfish?

If you’re nodding so hard your neck hurts, welcome to the club. 

Let’s be real: summer parenting without a plan is like grocery shopping while hungry. It’s inevitably chaotic, potentially expensive, and you somehow end up with things nobody actually needs. (Looking at you, Costco impulse-purchased blow-up water slide.)

After years of summer survival mode (which often consisted of me hiding in my room, eating ranch cornnuts, scrolling Instagram while wondering if screen time limits are really that important) I’ve found something that works with both big and little kids. So today, I’m sharing a sanity-saving tool with you: THE WEEKLY SUMMER SCHEDULE FOR YOUR KIDS.

Not just any schedule, mind you. A flexible, simple, realistic summer routine that gives your kids the structure they benefit from while preserving your sanity. It’s also great for summer babysitters! It takes the pressure off them entertaining the kids all day and guarantees the kids won’t have endless screentime. 

Why Your Kids (and You) Actually NEED a Weekly Summer Schedule

Before we dive into these game-changing templates, let’s talk about why unstructured summer chaos isn’t actually the carefree childhood experience we think it is.

Kids thrive on knowing what comes next. This is especially true if you have a neurodivergent kiddo. It’s like how you feel when your favorite bakery closes unexpectedly – disoriented, betrayed, and suddenly unable to function as a normal human being. (I’m still mourning you, Pearl Snap Kolaches. ) 

Research shows that kids with some structure during the summer months…

• Retain more academic skills (bye-bye, summer slide!)
• Experience less anxiety (fewer meltdowns = less gray hair)
• Develop better independence (hallelujah!)
• Spend less time glued to screens (so long self-imposed guilt trips)

Plus, a good daily schedule means you’ll stop hearing “What are we doing today?” every 3.7 minutes, which honestly is reason enough for me.

That’s why I’ve sketched out a basic, daily summer schedule that you can tailor to your family’s wake-up time. It’s divided into 5 blocks that can be adjusted to fit your family’s needs. It’s just enough structure to give your summer some predictability and routine without making you feel tied down to the clock. If you’re a Type B like me, this one’s for you!!!

So let’s jump into the schedule!

Block 1: Rise and Shine

First up in our daily summer schedule for kids is the morning routine block. Because how the day starts pretty much determines the trajectory of the afternoon and evening. 

First 1- 1.5 Hours of the Day: Morning Routine

• Rise and Shine: Feed the pets, breakfast, get dressed, brush teeth, etc.
• Morning Chores: 20ish minutes of age-appropriate responsibilities 

I REALLY enjoy a slow morning routine, as do my girls. Sitting, reading, and drinking coffee in the morning is probably my favorite activity of the day. So I’ve included plenty of time for that. Let the kids enjoy a slow morning, too. Just because there are chores to do doesn’t mean there isn’t time to first enjoy a slow breakfast and play with the kitties before scooping poop out of  the litter box. 

Pro tips:

• Create a visual checklist for younger kids with pictures of each task.
• For tweens and teens, resist the urge to wake them before 9 AM unless absolutely necessary. The hormone-fueled creatures need their beauty sleep and trust me, NO ONE wants to deal with a sleep-deprived 13-year-old. If you don’t believe me, I’ll loan you mine for a day. 

Block 2: Move Yo Body

Next up: Move your body and play. Those video games and iPad screens will win unless we set the expectation to get outdoors and move around.

I planned this block for early in the day because I live in Texas, and we are literally dying outdoors by 10 am. If this block needs to wait until evening when the summer sun isn’t melting you alive, then alter accordingly. But you’d be surprised how well a sprinkler and some lemonade can keep the kiddos cool and comfy outdoors. 

1.5 Hours: Get Moving!

• Outdoor play, bike rides, sports, yard games, playground, walk the dog, etc.
• Wet Wednesday Special: Water play activities, swimming, etc. 
• Field Trip Friday: Museums, splash pads, water parks, the movies, the skating rink, etc. Beat the heat and have fun all day!

An outdoor block is non-negotiable, no matter the time of day you plan it. The science is clear: physical activity improves focus, mood, and cognitive function. Sunshine gives you all that vitamin D you need for a healthy immune system. Time in nature boosts mood and reduces stress for EVERYONE. This block is for you, too, grownups! 

Block 3: Brain Time (That’s Actually Fun!)

There’s no need to separate “learning time” from “creative time. They’re two sides of the same developmental coin. The goal is to make this fun, so the kids have no idea their brains are working. It’s like hiding vegetables in brownies. You can fill this block with arts and crafts and other activities from your summer bucket list.

Theming your days gives kids something specific and novel to look forward to while providing the predictability that their developing brains love. Plus, it makes it a lot easer on you to plan! Win, win for everyone.

1.5 Hours: Brain and Create Time:

• Make-it Monday: Extended craft, art project, or DIY Building project. (I love Kiwi Kits for this! My dad has been doing these with all the grands, and it’s been a great bonding and creative activity that’s minimal prep.)
• Try-It Tuesday: Learn about something new, then try it! (think recipes, art techniques, gardening, coding, sewing skills, etc.)
• Wordy Wednesday: Reading adventure day! This is a great time to head to your local library or used bookstore. Join a reading challenge at your local library, Half Price Books, Barnes and Noble. You can find a full list from Money Saving Mom. You can also incorporate language-based games for older kiddos, like Scrabble, Bananagrams, Scattergories, etc. 
• Thoughtful Thursday: Community service planning and creation (create cards, make a meal for someone, etc). Social-emotional learning is just as important as skills learning. Having a specific time each week to focus on this is integral to growing emotionally-healthy humans. 
• Field Trip Friday: Need I say more? If you’ve got littles, you might want to start wrapping it up, and heading back home for the next block. (My favorite!)

Block 4: The Afternoon Sanity Recoup

It’s time for lunch and a mandatory decompression time (aka nap time). Besides morning coffee time, this might be my favorite block of the day. Also known as iced coffee hour.

1+ Hours: Refuel and Recoup

• Lunch (pro tip: let the big kids make it and clean up!)
• Rest/Quiet time (for EVERYONE)

Eat a quick lunch and relish some rest time. If your kiddos are past the napping stage, encourage them to do some quiet activities wherever you prefer.

This is when I choose to pull out the screen time. If I want some guaranteed quiet to read a book or get some writing done, I know I’ll get fewer interruptions if they can watch a movie or play some Roblox. But you do you, and what’s best for your family.

Block 5: Free Play with Friends

If you’re lucky enough to live in a neighborhood with kids or can easily rotate play dates with friends, then this block that combines socializing with free play is easy and so good for kids’ develpment. 

2+ Hours: Free Play and Social Time

• Unstructured indoor or outdoor play with minimal parental helicoptering (ahem)
• Friend time (playdates, neighborhood activities, etc.)
• Solo hobby exploration

This is where the real childhood memories happen. Remember running through sprinklers with neighborhood kids until dinner? Making mud pies in the backyard? Recording cassette tapes full of your own original songs? (Just me?) This is that block. It’s a non-negotiable, magical time when kids can let loose their creativity, learn negotiation skills, conflict resolution, and creative problem-solving.

Putting It All Together (Without Losing Your Mind)

Now for the moment of truth: how to implement this schedule without becoming the summer drill sergeant your children will complain about to their future therapists.

1. Print it out and display it prominently

Stick on the refrigerator, not buried in a drawer of good intentions next to the Jillian Michaels Yoga Meltdown DVD your postpartum self bought back in 2010. 

2. Use verbal or visual cues for transitions

Maybe it’s a timer, or silly song or dance that signals “It’s time for the next thing!”

This doesn’t have to be hard and fast. If your ADHD kid is hyperfocused on a science project, if it’s possible, let them finish. But if it’s absolutely necessary to transition, don’t just spring it on them and exepct them to obey immediately. As a mom of a kid who STRUGGLES with transitions, I give multiple heads-ups, especially if we have to leave the house at a specific time or are expecting company.

And be sure to offer praise when they do transition well. It’s something to celebrate! 

3. Build in flexibility

This is a FRAMEWORK, not prison. The best summer schedule is one that is realistic. Some days you’ll nail every block. Other days, you’ll abandon ship by 10 AM and have a movie marathon. Both are fine! I’m naturally a fly by the seat of my pants kind of person, so adhering to a summer daily routine is TOUGH for me. I have to give myself some grace and know that it’s not always gonna happen, and that’s totally ok. 

If you don’t want to start full-out, maybe just have 2 days a week of schedule and the leave the rest open to whatever. You know yourself and your kids best, so do what works. 

4. Prep the day before

Make a Michaels order for those craft supplies, pack bags for outings, and generally become the overnight summer fairy your post-late-night Netflix marathon zombie self will thank you for. 

5. Lower your standards considerably

That Pinterest craft will not look like the picture, no sirree.  Your zoo field trip in the 95 degree heat might will likely end with ice cream bribes. Your child might take pool baths 8 days in a row. IT’S ALL FINE.

The real goal here isn’t perfect summer productivity. It’s finding the balance between structure and freedom where kids thrive, and parents maintain just enough sanity to make it to mid-August.

Remember, the most important thing isn’t checking every box on the schedule. It’s being present enough to notice when your kid makes up a ridiculous new dance move, builds something amazing with sticks in the backyard, or suddenly wants to tell you about their elaborate fantasy world while helping with dinner prep. Above all else, it’s minimizing the screentime and encouraging kids to experience the world and use their imaginations.

What summer scheduling hacks have saved YOUR family? Drop them in the comments because we’re all in the sweaty, popsicle-stained trenches together!

The post Free Printable Weekly Summer Schedule For Parents (and Babysitters) Who Are Done With The Chaos appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Let’s be real—hosting Thanksgiving, whether it’s Friendsgiving or with the extended family on Turkey Day, can feel a little overwhelming. Between coordinating schedules, planning the menu, decorating, and making sure you actually have enough chairs for everyone, it’s easy to feel like you’ve bitten off more than you can chew. (Pun absolutely intended.)

But here’s the thing: Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be super stressful! With some planning and organization, you can throw a fabulous celebration for your family or friends—without breaking the bank or your sanity in the process.

That’s exactly why I created the Ultimate Thanksgiving Party Planner. It’s your one-stop guide to planning every detail of your celebration, from guest lists and budgets to timelines and memories. Think of it as your Thanksgiving Party best friend (because we all need one of those).

Ready to make this year’s Thanksgiving your easiest one yet? Let’s dive in!

Start with the Big Picture

Before you get caught up in Pinterest-perfect tablescapes and recipe rabbit holes, take a step back and think about what you actually want your Thanksgiving Party to be. The Party Details section helps you nail down the basics first.

Date and time: Poll your friends and family early! Thanksgiving week is notoriously busy, so lock down a date ASAP. Weekend brunches or the weekend before or after Thanksgiving tend to work well if Thanksgiving day is out of the question.

Theme: You don’t need one, but it makes planning more fun, especially if you’re throwing a Friendsgiving party. Whether it’s cozy pajamas, a decades throwback, or a specific cuisine, a theme guides your decor and menu decisions. (Check out my post on 45 Creative Friendsgiving Ideas for inspiration!)

Number of guests: Be realistic about your space. A packed house can be fun, but you also want people to be comfortable. 

Make it Potluck Style (Your Budget Will Thank You)

Here’s my number one tip for budget-friendly Friendsgiving: embrace the potluck! This cuts costs, takes pressure off you, and lets everyone contribute their favorites.

The Meal Planner section is like a sign-up sheet that helps you organize who’s bringing what:

Assign categories, not specific dishes: Let Sarah choose any side dish instead of demanding green bean casserole. This gives flexibility while ensuring a balanced menu.

Keep it simple: As the host, you might decide to provide the main dish and basics like beverages or appetizers. Let guests fill in sides and desserts. But if cost is an issue, delegate away!

Communicate dietary restrictions: Use the Guest List tracker to note allergies or preferences, then share this info when coordinating dishes.

One thing I’ve learned over the years? People actually love contributing to potlucks! It makes them feel like they’re part of creating the celebration, not just showing up to eat. Plus, you get to try everyone’s signature dishes and family recipes. My sister makes the most incredible cream corn that my girls and I look forward to every year— why try to do it all yourself when you can enjoy someone else’s cooking?!

Plan Your Shopping List (and Actually Write It Down)

Writing down your complete, detailed shopping list is a total game-changer. It helps you spot gaps (Wait, do we have any vegetables?) and prevents buying duplicate ingredients or freaking out an hour before your guests arrive because you forgot the marshmallows for on top of the sweet potatoes. The Shopping List section gives you space to map out the ALL the ingredients for everything from appetizers to desserts.

I love using the organized shopping list because it groups items by category—produce, meat, dairy, pantry items, beverages, and party supplies. Your grocery trip will be so much faster when you’re not zigzagging across the store seventeen times.

Pro tip: Check your pantry before shopping. I have enough thyme in my pantry for the entire neighborhood because I can never remember if I have any at home. The answer is Yes. Yes, I do . Learn from my mistakes and save yourself some money!

Another helpful hack? Shop for non-perishables a week or two early. This spreads out your spending and means you’re not trying to buy everything at once. Save the fresh produce and perishables for 2-3 days before your party.

Budget Like a Boss

Real talk: Parties can get expensive. Between food, drinks, those adorable napkins you saw on Instagram, and all the little extras, costs add up fast. The Budget Tracker keeps you honest about spending:

1. Set your total budget first: Decide what you’re comfortable spending
2. Allocate by category: Distribute across food, drinks, decor, etc.
3. Track as you go: Write down actual costs to adjust if needed

I’ve found that having a potluck can cut your costs by 60-70%. If you’re hosting 10 people and everyone contributes a dish, you’re only responsible for a fraction of the total food cost. Add in some smart shopping and DIY decor, and you can host an amazing Friendsgiving for under $100.

The free printable planner includes money-saving tips like shopping sales, borrowing serving dishes from friends (why buy something you’ll use once a year?), and DIYing decorations with items you already have. Mason jars, candles, and whatever fall foliage you can find outside go a long way!

Remember, your friends are coming for the company and the laughs, not because you spent $200 on decorations they’ll barely notice.

Timeline Everything (Future You Will Be Grateful)

The secret to stress-free hosting? Start early and spread tasks out. The Timeline breaks everything into manageable chunks:

3 weeks before: Send invitations, plan menu, coordinate potluck
2 weeks before: Finalize RSVPs, shop for non-perishables
1 week before: Buy decorations, prep your playlist
Day before: Do as much food prep as possible and set up decorations
Day of: Follow the hour-by-hour timeline to stay on track

The Day-Of Timeline includes a cooking schedule where you work backwards from serving time. No more “Why is nothing ready?!” panic.

Create the Perfect Atmosphere

The Decor & Setup Checklist covers everything from table linens and centerpieces to photo booth props and bathroom guest towels.

My approach? Keep it simple and cozy. String lights, candles, pumpkins, and fall foliage go a long way. Set up a photo booth area or designated spot for group photos—these are the memories you’ll treasure.

Don’t Forget the Fun

Friendsgiving is really about celebrating your friendships. The Activities section helps you plan games and special moments. Here are a few simple favorites:

• Gratitude sharing: Simple but meaningful
• Friendsgiving Bingo: Funny scenarios everyone can relate to
• Photo booth fun: Props and a backdrop for silly pictures
• Collaborative playlist: Guests add their favorite songs

Choose activities that fit your friend group’s vibe. Competitive bunch? Lean into games. Laid-back crew? Great conversation and good music might be all you need. If you’re looking for more ideas, check out my post with 27 Friendsgiving Games. 

Capture the Memories

The Notes & Memories section gives you space to document what worked, favorite dishes, and memorable moments. Looking back at previous years helps you see what recipes were hits, what made everyone laugh, and how your traditions have evolved.

Plus, having notes makes planning next year so much easier. Did that pumpkin pie disappear in minutes? Make two next year!

The Quick Reference Page: Your Day-Of Lifesaver

The final page includes all those easy-to-forget items like ice, serving utensils, and extra toilet paper. There’s also a Serving Size Guide:

• Turkey: 1-1.5 lbs per person
• Sides: 1/2 cup per person per side
• Wine: 1 bottle per 2-3 guests

And my favorite? Emergency Contacts. Write down your go-to restaurant and grocery that are open on Thanksgiving Day and the friend with extra chairs. Because sometimes things don’t go according to plan, and that’s okay!

Keep It Simple, Make It Special

The most important thing about Friendsgiving isn’t perfect decorations or Instagram-worthy food. It’s about gathering people you care about, sharing good food, and creating memories together.

This planner helps you do exactly that—without the stress, without breaking the budget, and without forgetting anything important. It makes planning easier so you can actually enjoy the celebration.

So download the planner, pour yourself a cup of coffee (or wine—no judgment), and start planning your best Friendsgiving yet!

Free Printable Thanksgiving Planner

Ready to get organized? Get your free Thanksgiving Party Planner here and let’s make this year’s celebration one for the books!

Happy planning, and happy Thanksgiving!

The post Plan the Perfect Friendsgiving! Free Printable Thanksgiving Party Planner for 2025 appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

When I first told family we were planning a trip to Europe with my then 9-year-old daughter, the reactions ranged from “You’re brave!” to barely concealed looks of concern. My daughter has Tourette’s syndrome and misophonia, which means certain sounds can send her into a spiral, and stressful situations trigger an increase in her tics and meltdowns. But here’s what I’ve learned over three years of family adventures: traveling with neurodivergent kids isn’t about avoiding challenges—it’s about preparing for them with love, patience, and the right tools.

Yes, we’ve had meltdowns in airport security lines, in subways, and crammed in crowded elevators when the stimuli became too much. But we’ve also discovered that despite the inevitable struggles, traveling with a neurodivergent child can be incredibly rewarding for families.

This guide isn’t written by a medical professional or therapist—it’s written by a mom who’s learned through trial, error, and a lot of creativity. Whether your child has misophonia, autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, or other neurodivergent traits, I hope these practical tips help make traveling with your neurodivergent child a little smoother and a lot less daunting.

This post contains affiliate links to products I love and recommend. This adds no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business!

Plan Ahead with These Pre-Trip Travel Tips

The secret sauce to successful neurodivergent family travel starts weeks before you leave home. I’ve learned that my daughter thrives when she knows what to expect, so to help prepare her, we create visual itineraries together using pictures from the internet. We include photos of hotel rooms, the airplane we’ll fly on, the airplane seating chart, photos of any other transportation we’ll be using, and the attractions we’ll visit. This isn’t just about logistics—it’s about building excitement while reducing anxiety.

Social stories have been game-changers for us. When she was younger, I would create simple narratives about what our travel day would look like: “First, we’ll go through security, then we’ll get a snack, then we’ll wait at our gate, and then we’ll board the plane.” For kids with autism or anxiety, this predictability can mean the difference between a smooth departure and a meltdown before you even leave home.

 If your child needs accommodations during travel or is traveling with an emotional or psychological support animal, get a note from your doctor detailing the accommodations needed. 

Packing Essentials for Neurodivergent Families

Our packing strategy has evolved into what I call “controlled chaos management.” The key is having the right tools accessible when you need them most. These are my must-have items when traveling with a neurodivergent child:

Headphones and Earplugs

Noise-canceling headphones and noise-reduction earplugs (my daughter prefers these CURVD earplugs over the Loop ones) are non-negotiable in our family—they’ve saved us from sensory overload countless times in airports, on planes, and in busy tourist areas. I recommend this JBL kids’ headphone version with volume limiters for hearing safety. And if you’re traveling with little bitty kids, these baby/toddler-sized headphones are lifesavers.

Weighted Blankets

Weighted lap pads are AMAZING for long flights, car rides, and sleeping in unfamiliar places. I even have one for my anxious, overwhelmed myself. They provide proprioceptive input that helps with self-regulation, and they’re much more portable than full-size weighted blankets. 

Fidgets and More

A compact sensory kit saved us countless times when she was younger. Ours included a fidget cube, silly putty, and a Pop-It. Everything fits in a ziplock bag for easy airport security screening. And on road trips, all my kids loved the Melissa & Doug reusable sticker pad books for lightweight entertainment that doesn’t require screens or sound.

Comfort Items

Don’t overlook comfort items. A small travel pillow that transforms into a stuffed animal is both space-saving and comforting. Bring a travel-sized bottle of safe, kid-friendly pillow spray that reminds them of home.  Also, a favorite hoodie or sweater can be extra comforting on long travel days. These seemingly simple items often make the biggest difference in helping neurodivergent kids feel secure

Technology

Technology can be your best friend when used strategically. Download movies, games, audiobooks, and calming apps before you travel to help keep your child entertained during long travel days or delays. I always pack extra charging cables and a portable battery pack because nothing derails a careful plan like a dead tablet during a layover. Don’t rely on airplane WiFi or international data plans when your child needs their comfort content.

Medication

Don’t forget the practical stuff either. If your child takes medication, bring extra along, just to be safe. An unexpected overnight travel delay can happen, and you don’t want to find yourself without necessary medications. Also, ask your doctor about the possibility of prescribing “as-needed” medication that could help your child with increased anxiety during travel. 

Transportation Strategies for Traveling With A Neurodivergent Child

Flying with neurodivergent kids requires some advance planning. Most airlines offer accommodations if you request them ahead of time and have a note from your doctor—things like pre-boarding, aisle seats for kids who need to move around, or assistance navigating security. TSA has a program called TSA Cares that provides additional screening assistance for travelers with disabilities. The Department of Transportation also provides this in-depth guide to navigating airline travel for people with disabilities.   

For traveling with a neurodivergent child on a long car ride, frequent breaks aren’t just helpful—they’re essential. Plan stops every hour or two, even if it extends your travel time. Fast food restaurants with play areas or rest stops with walking paths can be lifesavers for kids who need to move their bodies to regulate.

Public transportation can be tricky with sensory sensitivities. The crowded, often hot train cars in the subway were A LOT for my daughter, but we’ve developed strategies. We do our best to avoid rush hour travel time, come prepared with water and snacks for her, use noise-canceling headphones, and always have an early exit plan if things become overwhelming.

Accommodation Considerations When Traveling With a Neurodivergent Child

Hotel selection matters more than you might think. I look for properties with thicker walls, away from elevators and ice machines. Many hotels will note these preferences in your reservation if you call ahead. When she was young, we immediately set up her space with her comfort items, snacks, and a drink, and planned to stay put for a while, so she could acclimate. 

Maintaining routines while traveling is challenging but crucial. We try to keep meal times consistent to regulate her blood sugar and preserve bedtime rituals even in unfamiliar places. I always pack a white noise machine and a weighted lap blanket because new sleeping environments can be particularly difficult for neurodivergent kids.

Don’t underestimate the power of familiar foods. While trying local cuisine is part of travel’s joy, having backup snacks your child enjoys can prevent hunger-induced meltdowns. I always take her shopping pre-trip to pick out her favorite travel snacks. 

Daily Adventure Management

The key to successful daily adventures when traveling with a neurodivergent child is building flexibility into your plans. We have a non-negotiable scheduled downtime each afternoon between activities. No one is too old for naptime! And I always have a “Plan B” if our original idea becomes overwhelming. We don’t expect to do every activity together, and sometimes it’s best if my husband and I split up the kids and take them to do separate activities. Museums during school hours are usually less crowded than on weekends. Many attractions offer sensory-friendly hours or quiet spaces—research these options in advance.

Timing is everything. My daughter does best with morning activities when her energy and coping skills are fresh. By afternoon, we’re often back at our accommodation for rest time before going out for dinner and whatever we feel up to that evening. This might mean missing some sights, but that’s totally ok with us. It ensures the experiences we do have are positive ones.

Crowds can be the biggest challenge for many neurodivergent kids. We’ve learned to identify escape routes immediately upon arriving anywhere new. Knowing where the nearest bathroom, quiet space, or exit is located gives both my daughter and me peace of mind. Sometimes just knowing we can leave if needed is enough to help us stay.

When Things Go Sideways: Crisis Management with Compassion

Despite your best planning, meltdowns will happen when you’re traveling with a neurodivergent child. I’ve learned that my response in these moments sets the tone for how quickly we can recover. Stay calm, validate your child’s feelings, and don’t worry about staring strangers. Most people are more understanding than you’d expect, especially when they see you handling the situation with patience and love.

Finding your village while traveling means connecting with other parents who understand. Online neurodivergent parenting groups often have location-specific advice, and many cities have autism-friendly resources that locals can recommend. Don’t be afraid to ask hotel staff, museum employees, or other service workers for help—most are trained to assist families with different needs.

Remember that self-care isn’t selfish when you’re traveling with neurodivergent kids. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so build in moments for yourself, too. Sometimes that means ordering room service instead of exploring another restaurant, and that’s perfectly okay.

Building Confidence: Growing Through Travel with a Neurodivergent Child

The most beautiful part of traveling with my neurodivergent daughter has been watching her confidence grow with each new experience she successfully navigates. Travel has taught her that she can handle new situations, that the world is full of people who want to help, and that different doesn’t mean less capable.

Every family’s journey will look different, and what works for us might need modification for your unique situation. The goal isn’t perfect trips—it’s creating positive memories while building your child’s confidence and coping skills. Some of our most treasured family stories come from the moments when things didn’t go according to plan, but we figured it out together.

Traveling with a neurodivergent child requires more preparation, more patience, and more flexibility than typical family trips. But the rewards—seeing your child’s face light up at new discoveries, watching them develop problem-solving skills, and creating shared adventures—make every challenging moment worth it. Your neurodivergent child deserves to see the world, and with the right preparation and mindset, they absolutely can.

Start small if you need to, celebrate every success, and remember that you’re not just creating vacation memories—you’re building life skills that will serve your child well beyond your travels. The world becomes a little more inclusive every time families like ours show up, and that’s a beautiful thing indeed.

The post Traveling with a Neurodivergent Child: How To Reduce the Vacation Stress appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Tired of being cooped up inside? As the weather warms up and nature begins to reawaken, spring offers the perfect opportunity to come out of hibernation, pry ourselves off the couch and away from screens, and plan some memorable adventures together during this gorgeous time of the year! 

The best part? Creating lasting memories doesn’t require a lot of money or elaborate plans – just genuine connection, creativity, and a willingness to set aside some time together for some fun activities. Here are 45 Spring bucket list ideas that will help your family bond, explore, and grow together without breaking the bank.

This post contains affiliate links to products I love and recommend. These come at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business!

Free Download: Spring Bucket List Printable

We’ve got two versions of our spring bucket list. Both include the list of 45 spring bucket list ideas, plus a blank bucket list that you can customize with your family’s favorite activities. Just fill out the form below   

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Spring Bucket List Ideas List: 

Ready for some springtime family fun? Here’s our round-up of 45 creative and fun spring bucket list ideas to get you started. It’s time to make some springtime memories! 

Backyard Scavenger Hunt

Create an exciting treasure hunt in your own backyard by making a list of natural items for kids to find, like leaves, bugs, and flowers. Turn it into a friendly competition with simple prizes like choosing dessert or picking the next family movie night film. It’s sure to be a great time for the littles! 

Download Free Printable
Spring Scavenger Hunt

Start an Outdoor Garden

Give each family member their own small plot or container and let them choose whatever fruits and vegetables or flowers they wish to plant and grow. You can start from seed or opt for seedlings. Watching their plants grow builds patience and responsibility while providing endless opportunities for conversations about nature, science, and life. It’s one of my very favorite spring activities. Even my teenagers enjoy it!

Puddle Jumping Adventure

What child (or playful adult) can resist a good puddle? During a spring rain shower, don your rain boots (or go barefoot if it’s late spring), grab an umbrella, and head outdoors for a splashing session. Rainy days don’t have to be boring days!

Homemade Kite Flying

 Transform basic materials like paper grocery bags, cardstock, newspaper, string, and wooden dowels into DIY kites (check out this easy tutorial here!). Flying a kite is something every kid should try at least once, and these DIY kites make it even more memorable! 

Bubble-Blowing Bonanza

Mix up a batch of homemade bubble solution using dish soap, water, and a touch of corn syrup or glycerin for extra-durable bubbles. Create unique bubble wands from household items like plastic bottles, straws, or wire hangers. The dogs will even love this activity, as they run around and chase the bubbles. 

Sunrise Picnic 

Pack hot chocolate and breakfast treats for an early morning adventure watching the sunrise. Bring blankets, snuggle up, and relish the changing colors in the sky – it’s a magical way to start the day that feels extra special.

Tree Bark Art Gallery

Turn your neighborhood trees into an art project by creating bark rubbings using paper and crayons. As you collect different patterns, research the tree species together and create a family field guide of local trees.

Rainbow Flower Hunt

Challenge your family to find flowers in every color of the rainbow, documenting your discoveries with photos or drawings. If you’re short on flowers at your home, visit a local nursery or botanic garden. 

Butterfly Garden Project

Research which butterflies are common in your area and plant their favorite nectar flowers. Even a few containers on a patio can attract these beautiful insects, and children love monitoring the garden for visitors. We planted milkweed last year and have attracted hundreds of monarch butterflies to our backyard! 

DIY Bird Cafe

Transform pinecones into bird feeders using peanut butter and birdseed. Hang them where you can watch from inside, and keep a family log of your feathered visitors – you’ll be surprised how quickly kids learn to identify different species.

Rock Pet Paradise

Let everyone choose special rocks to transform into pet characters using weatherproof paint. Create homes for them in your garden or in your plants indoors. 

Pressed Flower Art

This is one of my very favorite spring activities! Collect flower petals and leaves and press them between wax paper. Once dried, use them to create bookmarks, cards, or frame-worthy artwork that preserves spring’s beauty. For an awesome tutorial and more ideas from My Moonstone Kitchen click here.

Fairy Garden

Fairy Gardens embrace the magic of springtime. Create your own by using natural materials like sticks, leaves, and flower petals to build tiny homes for imaginary garden residents. You could also use craft supplies you have lying around, like popsicle sticks or clay. This activity sparks creativity and can become more elaborate over time as your fairy garden village expands.

Nature Journal Chronicles

Start nature journals documenting seasonal changes, complete with drawings, pressed leaves, and observations. Even young children can contribute with drawings, photos, or dictated stories. You can continue this journal through every seasonal change. 

Visit Your Local Farmer’s Market

Visit a local farmer’s market to shop for fresh produce and skip the grocery store. Markets are an excellent place to shop as you talk about supporting local farmers and the benefits of eating locally grown foods. Plus you can enjoy some delicious spring fruits and veggies or other treats and eats for sale. 

Feed the Ducks

Who doesn’t enjoy feeding ducks? Even as an adult, this is a fun and relaxing activity for me.  Take some duck-friendly foods (please not bread) like sweetcorn, frozen peas, oats, seeds, or rice, and treat those feathered friends at your local pond or park. 

Weekly Library Adventure

Make your local library a regular destination. Create themed reading lists about spring, Easter, baby animals, nature, and outdoor adventures. Lots of local libraries offer special seasonal activities and storytimes, as well, so take advantage of those! 

Backyard Bird Songs

Use the Merlin Bird ID app by Cornell University to learn common bird calls in your area, then practice identifying them during outdoor time. It makes bird-watching even more enjoyable!

Weather Watch Station

Turn your family into meteorologists by tracking daily weather patterns, temperatures, and cloud formations. Create simple charts that even little ones can help fill out with weather stickers or drawings. Create your own or use an inexpensive weather journal. 

Springtime Photography

Choose a specific tree, flower patch, or garden area to photograph throughout the spring season. Creating this visual timeline helps everyone notice subtle changes and develop photography new skills. Here’s a great beginner video for shooting quality landscape photos with a phone. 

Kitchen Science Lab

If you’ve got time to kill and are stuck indoors make an educational activity a fun one! Set up simple science experiments using household items. You can find lots of fun, easy science experiment ideas here. 

Kid Olympics

When the warmer weather hits, head outdoors! Create your own Olympic sporting events using household items – egg-and-spoon races with plastic eggs, obstacle courses with hula hoops, or sack races using old pillowcases. Think old-school field day events. Invite the neighbors over for some extra competition. This is a grat spring break activity for when the kids are all home from school with nothing to do. If you have teenagers around, you can let them facilitate. 

Bike Ride

Start with short family bike rides and gradually increase distance as everyone builds confidence. Create fun destinations like a favorite park or ice cream shop to make each ride special.

Backyard Camping

Set up tents in the backyard for a close-to-home adventure. Include classic camping activities like stargazing, storytelling, and flashlight shadow puppets. If it’s too cold or wet out, living room camping works, too. 

Sidewalk Chalk Art and Games

Transform your driveway or sidewalk into a giant canvas for hopscotch, artistic creations, or game boards. Invent new games and rules together, making your outdoor space an ever-changing playground. It’s fun and practically free!

Weekend Picnics

Make a family goal to picnic in a different spot each weekend – from your backyard to local parks or nature areas. Pack simple sandwiches and snacks, bringing along games, a frisbee or books for added entertainment. It’s a great way to spend time out of the house together without the added expense of dining out. 

Windowsill Herb Garden

Start an indoor herb garden that even apartment dwellers can enjoy. Kids love to plant and grow herbs, and it’s a great way to get your kids to eat more adventurously when they use their herbs to help cook meals. 

Fruity Popsicle Workshop

It’s finally feeling warm enough for a frozen treat! Turn your kitchen into a popsicle factory using fresh fruit, juice, and silicone popsicle molds. Get the kids involved and let them create their own flavor combinations and conduct family taste tests when they’re frozen.

Garden Tea Party

Host a festive outdoor tea party. Serve simple homemade treats, make iced herbal or sweet tea, make a bouquet of spring blooms, and encourage everyone to dress up – even if it’s just with paper crowns you make together.

Make Dandelion Honey

Transform those “pesky” yard flowers into a sweet treat by making dandelion honey (with adult supervision). The process of carefully collecting and preparing the flowers teaches children about foraging and cooking while creating a delicious vegan treat. Just make sure you choose dandelions from a yard or field that hasn’t been treated with chemicals. 

Community Clean-Up

Organize a community clean-up with friends or neighbors. Tackle a local park or nature area and designate a couple of hours for cleaning and time afterward for snacks and celebrating your hard work. 

Sidewalk Messages

Spread joy throughout your neighborhood by writing encouraging messages and creating cheerful drawings with sidewalk chalk. It’s amazing how many smiles a simple “Have a Great Day!” can generate.

Good Neighbor Squad

Help elderly neighbors with simple spring yard work like mowing the grass, pulling weeds, or planting flowers. This teaches children the value of community service while strengthening meaningful intergenerational connections.

Plant Swap Social

Organize a plant exchange where friends or neighbors can get together to trade cuttings, seedlings, or divided perennials. It’s a fantastic way to expand your garden while building community relationships. Plus, you’re sure to learn some fantastic gardening tips from experienced growers. 

Museum Days

Take advantage of free or discounted admission days at local museums and nature centers in your area. This is especially nice for those cold or rainy spring days. 

Bug Detective Agency

Create a bug observation station with magnifying glasses, notebooks, and field guides. Children naturally love investigating tiny creatures, and this structured observation helps develop scientific thinking skills.

Create a Rock Collection

Start a family rock collection, learning about different types of rocks and minerals. Local parks, beaches, or even your own yard can become geological treasure troves.

Wind Chime Workshop

Create wind chimes from recycled materials like shells, old keys, bells, metal washers, or bamboo. Experiment with different materials to create unique sounds while learning about music and physics.

Time Capsule Project

Fill a weatherproof container with family photos, drawings, predictions, and special items to open next spring. I’ve created this free printable About Me page for you to include in your time capsule. For more fun time capsule ideas, click here. 

Nature Mandala Design

Collect natural materials like leaves, petals, and stones to create beautiful circular patterns on the ground. You can affix it to wood or paper to create more permanent decoration, encapsulating this beautiful season. Everyone will love the final product!

Paper Boat Regatta

For the little engineers in your life, design and fold paper boats. Then take them to a nearby pond or even a swimming pool to test them out. National Geographic has an easy little DIY boat tutorial you can try here.

Build an Outdoor Fort

As soon as March rolls around, the kids are itching to get outdoors. Encourage them to gather sticks, branches, leaves, and other materials you have around the garage or house to create forts or hideouts. These special spaces become magical kingdoms for imaginative play and quiet reading nooks. It will keep the kids outside all day!

Flower Power Craft Time

Create beautiful tissue paper flowers to share with friends, family, or neighbors. Choose a color theme, like pastels, neutrals, or vivid colors. My girls loved decorating their rooms with them and creating bouquets to give to their grandmothers. Here’s any DIY tissue paper flower tutorial to follow along with. 

Take a Day Trip

Overnight trips get expensive so take a little day trip. Choose somewhere within an hour or two of your home. Explore new parks, hiking trails, downtown areas, museums, or other sites that are free or low cost. Pack a cooler of food for the road, turn on an audiobook or favorite tune,s and make a fun springtime adventure!  Spring is the perfect season for a little road trip adventure!

Spring Cleaning

This one is more for the grown-ups, but we all know the benefits of a good spring cleaning. There’s nothing like clearing the clutter and having a nice, deep-cleaned home. If you clear out enough stuff, you can host a garage sale and use the profits to take your family out and celebrate your success!

Wrapping Up: Spring Bucket List Ideas

Spring offers countless opportunities to unplug, get outside, and create meaningful memories with our families. These 45 spring bucket list ideas prove that you don’t need expensive equipment or elaborate plans to have fun together – just some creativity and the willingness and presence to embrace simple pleasures like sunny days and nature. 

As you work through this bucket list, remember that the goal isn’t to complete every activity perfectly, but to enjoy the laughter, learning, and connection that comes from spending quality time together. Your children may not remember every detail of each activity, but they’ll always remember how these special moments made them feel. Here’s to making a spring season filled with joy, discovery, and screen-free family fun!

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Christmas bucket list – three words that simultaneously fill me with Pinterest-worthy dreams and mild panic as I picture myself hot-gluing candy canes to wreaths at midnight while covered in glitter. But here’s the thing: amid the chaos of this magical month, having a list of possible memory-making moments actually helps me slow down and savor the season instead of watching it fly by in a blur of gift-wrapping and sugar cookies.

Listen, this isn’t about adding more “must-dos” to your already overflowing plate (because heaven knows we’re all one class party signup away from a complete tinsel-covered meltdown). Instead, think of this as your permission slip to pick and choose the joy-sparking activities that work for your actual, real-life family. Whether you’re the mom who has her advent activities color-coded by mid-November, or you’re still finding Halloween candy in your coat pockets (no judgment here), I’ve got 59 Christmas bucket list ideas to help you make this December feel a little more magical and a lot less frantic.

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Festive and Crafty Christmas Bucket List Ideas

Because nothing says it’s the holiday season like a light dusting of glitter on every surface of your home, right? These decorating and craft ideas range from “Pinterest-perfect possible” to “at least we tried!”

Decorate your Christmas tree as a family

As much as you’d like to take this over (just me??) it’s even more special to have the whole family involved. Pro tip: Lower your expectations and embrace the ridiculousness of a bare bottom third of your tree. Just accept defeat now instead of battling your toddler or cat all freaking month. 

Make paper snowflakes for window decorations

Let the Queen of Christmas Crafts herself show you how to create some gorgeous snowflakes. Warning: You will find paper scraps until Valentine’s Day. Worth it.

Create a holiday wreath using natural materials

Channel your inner crafty goddess and raid your backyard for supplies. Pine cones, twigs, and maybe that missing soccer sock – it’s all fair game.

String popcorn, dried oranges, or cranberry garlands

A classic Christmas activity that teaches patience, hand-eye coordination, and why we shouldn’t eat decorations. Ask me how I know.

Build a gingerbread house from scratch

Or grab a kit from Target. Both count, and only one might save your sanity.

Create handmade Christmas cards

Because nothing says “I care” like glitter-covered fingerprints and slightly wonky drawings of reindeer.

Make salt dough ornaments

Create memories and backup Christmas gifts all at once. Win-win!

Design a festive table centerpiece

Think fir branches, pinecones, glass ornaments, and candles. You could also add some cranberries or dried oranges for a pop of natural color. Bonus points if it survives until the actual Christmas dinner.

Make paper chain decorations

Simple enough for toddlers, satisfying enough for teens who pretend they’re too cool for crafts.

Create an advent calendar with daily activities

One my favorite ways to countdown to Christmas morning! Mix in easy wins like “drink hot cocoa”  or “watch Elf” with your more ambitious plans and surprises. Trust me on this one.

Outdoor Christmas Bucket List Ideas

Let’s be honest – December is more magical when we’re not all cooped up inside watching the walls close in. Here’s how to embrace the great outdoors, even when your fingers are questioning your life choices.

Quick note: Some of these depend on actual winter weather cooperating. No promises there, Mother Nature has her own agenda, especially here in Texas.

Build a snowman

Or a snow blob. Or a snow turtle. Or a wanna-be shaving cream snowman. Whatever speaks to your artistic soul and the actual snow conditions you’re working with.

Go sledding

Nothing brings out the kid in all of us like hurtling down a snow-covered hill on a piece of plastic while questioning all our life choices. You can even find some man-made snow hills around the holidays, so us southerners can experience a little snow magic, too.

Take a winter nature walk and collect pinecones

Free decor and built-in entertainment. Plus, it’s educational if anyone asks.

Make snow angels

The perfect excuse to lie down outside and take a mom break. I mean, make memories.

Have a family snowball fight

Remember: alliances will be formed and broken, and someone will definitely cry. Possibly you.

Go ice skating

Hold hands, laugh together, and try not to think about how many people have fallen here before you.

Create winter bird feeders

Because being kind to our feathered friends totally makes up for forgetting to move the Elf three nights in a row. Try this easy DIY bird feeder project with the kids. 

Take a nighttime walk to look at neighborhood lights

Wrap up warm and get into the holiday spirit with some festive Christmas lights. Hot chocolate in travel mugs required. Bonus points for wearing pajamas under your coats.

Take family photos in matching winter outfits

Yes, we’re that family now. Embrace it. And fake that festive Christmas cheer if you have to. 

Go on a winter scavenger hunt

Turn “I’m cold” into “I found it!” with a list of winter treasures to discover.

Kitchen Adventure Christmas Bucket List Ideas

The kitchen is where some of December’s best memories are made. It’s also where you’ll find sprinkles in July, but that’s part of the charm.

Bake Christmas cookies

Start with good intentions of following Great-Grandma’s sugar cookie recipe and end up embracing the beauty of break-and-bake. Either way, memories are made.

Make hot chocolate from scratch

Because sometimes we need to remind ourselves why we usually buy the packets.

Host a family cookie-decorating party

Turn on your favorite holiday playlist and bake the night away. Prepare to find icing in places you didn’t know existed. The photos will be worth it.

Try a new holiday recipe from another culture

Expand those horizons. Think Hungarian Beigli, Greek Koulourakia, Danish Brunkager, or South African Malva Pudding. Your kids might even surprise you and try some. 

Make peppermint bark

The easiest impressive-looking treat you’ll ever make. Don’t tell anyone how simple it is.

Make mulled apple cider (for the grown-ups)

Your house will smell amazing, and you’ll feel like a colonial-era domestic goddess. 

Prepare homemade gifts from the kitchen

Nothing says love like slightly burnt caramel wrapped in cellophane. All jokes aside, a tub of homemade Chex mix or puppy chow might be the key to my heart. 

Create a holiday trail mix

Mix Christmas M&Ms, white chocolate chips,  holiday-shaped pretzels, dried cranberries, and whatever else your heart desires. 

Make homemade eggnog (also for the grown-ups)

If you think you hate eggnog, you’ve never had a good ol’ spiked eggnog cocktail. Brandy will be your new bestie. 

Have a holiday pizza-making night

Red sauce and green peppers count as Christmas colors, right? To make it extra festive for the kiddos, try these adorable Christmas tree pizzas!

Christmas Bucket List Ideas that Spread Joy

December gives us so many chances to show our kids that giving truly is better than receiving (even if they don’t totally believe us yet).

Shovel snow for elderly neighbors

Build muscles and good karma all at once.

Donate toys to a local charity

The perfect opportunity to teach giving while secretly decluttering before the new toy tsunami hits.

Volunteer at a local food bank

Nothing puts “we have nothing to eat” complaints in perspective quite like this. It’s important to teach our kids empathy and generosity towards the less fortunate in our communities. 

Make care packages for homeless shelters

Teaching compassion one gallon-sized bag at a time. Care package item ideas include socks, water bottles, granola bars, crackers, wipes, toiletries like toothpaste and toothbrushes, hygiene products like soap and deodorant, protein bars, jerky, first aid supplies, blankets, and clothing items like shirts and underwear

Write letters to soldiers overseas

Because everyone deserves a little holiday cheer, especially those far from home. If you’re not sure how to get started, DoingGoodTogether.org makes it easy.

Participate in a giving tree program

Shop for someone else’s Christmas wishes and watch your kids’ hearts grow three sizes. You can find a Salvation Army Angel Tree near you or check with local schools, YMCAs and community centers, as they’ll often have their own giving tree program. 

Collect coats for a winter clothing drive

Marie Kondo your closets for a cause. Just make sure it’s clean and in good condition. 

Bring treats to local first responders

Thank the people who work while we celebrate. 

Carol at a nursing home

What you lack in pitch, make up for in enthusiasm. You can also ask if you can bring small goodie bags for the residents. This might be the sweetest memory you make all year. 

Host a neighborhood hot chocolate stand for charity

Like a lemonade stand, but with more marshmallows. Donate the profits to your favorite charity. 

Host a Christmas party for your friends or family

Who better to show some Christmas love to than the people who mean the most to you? Make it stress-free opt for takeout or catering. 

Cozy Indoor Christmas Bucket List Ideas

Sometimes the best December moments happen when we’re all piled on the couch in matching pajamas (that we totally didn’t buy just for the ‘gram).

Have a Christmas movie marathon

Make a cup of hot chocolate and get ready to debate whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie. Again.

Read holiday stories while snuggled by the fire

Or the space heater. Think outside the box. The little ones won’t care 

Create a holiday music playlist

Create a roundup of the best classic carols with modern hits (Yes, Ariana! No, Wham!) and share your playlist with the family. You’ll be listening to your favorite Christmas songs all month. 

Do holiday-themed puzzles

Test your family’s patience and spatial awareness all at once. 

Have an indoor camping night with twinkle lights

All the fun of camping, none of the cold. 

Create a family holiday time capsule

Future you will thank present you for this one. You can download my printable holiday time capsule activity and use it each year. It’s a simple and fun way to document your kids’ growth throughout the years. 

Build a blanket fort for storytime

Because everything is more magical in a fort, hang some twinkle lights, bring the oversized pillows and blankets, and get cozy for some quality time together. 

Play board games in pajamas

Spend an evening playing board games in your coziest robe and slippers. Monopoly might end in tears, but at least you’re comfy. 

Have a holiday dance party

Shake off the winter blues and work off some cookie calories. Expect eye rolls from the teenagers. 

Extra Special Christmas Bucket List Ideas

Yes, these require actual pants and possibly combing hair, but they’re worth it.

Attend a Christmas tree lighting

From little towns to big cities, a Christmas tree lighting is the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season. 

See Santa

Capture the magic, or the terror, or both. All make great memories. 

Attend a local holiday parade

Bundle up, bring hot chocolate, and wave at every single float

Drive through holiday light displays

The perfect activity for when you want to be festive but also antisocial.

Watch a live holiday performance

Whether it’s a professional production of the Nutcracker Ballet or your kid’s school play where they forget all their lines, it’s all magic.

Stay at a hotel decorated for Christmas

Recreate your own Home Alone experience this December complete with overpriced room service and gangster movies. 

Ride a North Pole train

All aboard the Polar Express! Don your jammies and book a holiday train ride near you!

Attend a Christmas market

Ditch the big box stores and Amazon this year. Shop small and support the local artisans in your community. You’ll find one-of-a-kind stocking stuffers and gifts for everyone on your list. 

Host a family New Year’s Eve countdown party

Who says midnight has to be at 12? Netflix has countdown videos for every time zone.

Wrapping Up: 55 Christmas Bucket List Ideas

• Keep it simple – You don’t need to do all 55 things. Pick what works for your family and ignore the rest.
• Be flexible – Sometimes the best memories come from when plans go hilariously wrong.
• Document the chaos – Take pictures, even of the mess-ups, especially of the mess-ups.
• Remember your “why” – This list isn’t about creating perfect moments; it’s about being present with your people.

So there you have it, friends – your permission slip to make this Christmas season your own kind of special with our Christmas bucket list ideas. Whether you tackle five activities or fifty, remember that the real magic isn’t in checking things off a list; it’s in those little moments when you look around at your beautiful, chaotic family and remember why it’s the most wonderful time of the year.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go vacuum up some glitter. Again.

The post 59 Festive Christmas Bucket List Ideas: Holly Jolly December Activities (Plus Free Printables!) appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

As the holidays and other special days approach, it’s time to make those shopping lists. Stuck on what to buy for your friend or family member who’s always jetting off to some new corner of the world? I feel you – it can be tough to find something they don’t already have. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. I’ve put together a seriously cool list of 36 travel gift ideas that’ll make any traveler’s eyes light up. Trust me, we’re talking way beyond your typical neck pillows and luggage tags here.

I’ve scoured the internet and even tested out a few of these goodies myself. The result? A culmination of the top unique travel gift ideas for 2025. With essential travel gift ideas, fun and adventure gifts, eco-friendly gifts, comfort travel gifts, and personalized travel gift ideas, I bet you’ll find something perfect in this list. So grab a drink, get comfy, and let’s get ready to shop for some awesome travel gift ideas that’ll earn you some major brownie points!

This post contains affiliate links to products I love and recommend. These may earn me a small commission but come at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business!

Essential Travel Gift Ideas

National Park-Themed Packing Cubes

Product: Tripped Travel Gear Compression Cubes

 Packing cubes are a game changer for packing light and staying organized. And while most frequent travelers own some packing cubes, these expandable, National Park-themed compression packing cubes are gorgeous and will delight your adventure-loving friends! And with the company’s 100% satisfaction guaranteed policy, you can’t go wrong.

Rechargeable Portable Luggage Scale

Product: Rechargeable Luggage Scale

This makes the perfect little stocking stuffer. And the fact that it’s rechargeable means your frequent traveler won’t have to worry about dead batteries anymore. 

TSA Approved Make-Up Bag

Product: Ethereal Travel Makeup Bag

This make-up bag is the perfect travel companion with its waterproof main compartment and its separate zippered bottom to keep your make-up brushes clean and dry. Toss it in your suitcase, backpack or purse and you’re ready to hit the road.

Travel Scarf with Hidden Pocket

Product: Waypoint Goods Infinity Travel Scarf

Give the gift of security with this hidden pocket scarf. There are lots of options on the market, but the high-quality, breathable 70% bamboo/30% cotton material makes this one stand out and allows you to keep your valuables close, even in hot weather. You easily store cash, a cell phone, and a passport in it and have peace of mind during your travels. Plus, these beautiful, stylish scarfs are made by women for women, so you’ll feel good knowing you’re supporting a woman-owned business.

Packable Full-Length Rain Jacket for Women

Product: LAMA Women’s Long Rain Coat

Why use a jacket that only keeps your top half dry? This full-length rain jacket for women covers all your clothes while being thin enough to pack up in the accompanying travel bag. It’s perfect for those rainy springtime travels.

Packable Full-Length Rain Jacket for Men

Product: Ubon Full-Length Rain Jacket

While it’s not as cute as the women’s rain jacket, this packable long rain jacket for men will keep them nice and dry with its double zipper and snaps, velcro sleeves, and adjustable hood. Plus it’s lightweight and breathable for even warmer weather. 

Travel Size Laundry Detergent Sheets

Product: Poesie Laundry Detergent Sheets

Here’s another fun little stocking stuffer. It’s super practical yet a lifesaver for those trying to pack light. Keep your capsule wardrobe clean and fresh while packing less with these laundry detergent sheets.

Comfort on the Go

Travel Neck Pillow

Product: Trtl Pillow

This pillow is a lifesaver on an overnight flight. If you or your traveler has a hard time sleeping with regular travel pillows (Hello, my fellow giraffe-necked friends!) It’s totally worth the investment and is unlike any other travel pillow I have ever used. Trust me, this strange-looking pillow resembling a neck brace is totally worth it. I would never take an overnight flight without it!

Sleep Headphones & Bluetooth Sleep Mask

Product: Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask

Your traveler will love this 3D light-blocking sleep mask with built-in Bluetooth wireless headphones. Whether they prefer white noise while they sleep or want some quiet music to block out the noise around them, this Bluetooth sleep mask will play for 10 hours. 

2-in-1 Airplane Footrest and Foot Hammock

Product: 2-in-1 Airplane Footrest and Foot Hammock

For your shorter traveling friends, friends with kids, or those suffering from restless leg syndrome, this 2-in-1 foot rest and foot hammock is another life-saver for long flights. The footrest is inflatable, making it easy to pack. And the foot hammock slips over the tray table, working when it’s both open or closed to help relieve swelling and discomfort. 

Travel Weighted Blanket

Product: Aricove Travel Weighted Blanket

If you sleep with a weighted blanket, you’ll understand how important this gift is. I can’t think of any gift I’d love more, honestly.  This small 5 lb weighted blanket comes with a lovely carrying tote, so you can take it wherever you go. There are bigger, heavier options, but when traveling I prefer to pack light and the 5lb is my top choice. 

Gadgets and Gear

Universal Travel Adapter and Voltage Converter

Product: APzek Travel Converter and Voltage Converter

This compact travel adapter converts 220 voltage to 110 voltage, allowing international travelers to use blow dryers, flat irons, laptops, and other electronics. It works in over 200 countries and is a must-have stocking stuffer for your globe-trotting friends. 

Combo Portable/Wall Charger

Sponsored Product: VEEKTOMOX charger

This isn’t your usual portable charger. This charger has built-in dual charging cables (compatible with iPhone & Android devices) plus an integrated AC wall plug. You can use this as a portable charger or as a wall charger, without having to bring any extra cords! It has a multi-protection system (overcharge/short-circuit/temperature control) and has been rigorously tested in extreme conditions. VEEKTOMX’s eco-conscious commitment means it’s made with 80% recyclable materials, which is also a win.

Slim Bluetooth Tracker

Product: Tile By Life 360 Slim

This slim credit card-sized tracker is perfect for slipping in a wallet or passport holder while traveling. This blue tooth tracker works with the Life 360 app for easy tracking and also includes a built-in SOS button that can be triggered during an emergency. Gift peace of mind this year with this tracker.  

Portable Coffee Maker and Thermos

Product: WACACO Pipamoka Portable Coffee Maker

This little piece of brilliance is one of the best gifts for travelers who love their coffee. Drink delicious coffee on the go with this portable coffee maker that can brew a cup of fresh coffee in 2 minutes. You can do it all with this all-in-one, vacuum-pressure coffee maker and insulated mug- no electricity or batteries required. It’s an amazing gift for campers and outdoor enthusiasts!

Open Ear Headphones

Product: SHOKZ OpenFit Air Headphones

While traveling, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. That’s why these open-ear headphones are an ideal gift for travel lovers. With 6 hours of playtime on a single charge and the comfort of not having something over or in your ears, these are a solid travel gift.  

Wireless Travel Router

Product: Portable Travel Router

For those frequent business travelers, this pocket-sized travel router will keep things secure while they’re online. You can connect to local wifi while providing a protected local network, keeping online activity private. 

Kindle Color Soft

Product: All-New Kindle Color Soft

Give the gift of reading to your travel lover. The new Kindle Color Soft offers a high-contrast color display that’s as easy on the eyes as an actual book. It’s waterproof, has incredible battery life (up to 8 weeks!), and ample storage space (32 GB). From home to on-the-go, this Kindle will be a favorite gift for years to come. 

Portable Door Lock

Product: Sabre Portable Door Lock

For those solo travelers, this little gift offers peace of mind and safety while they’re on the road. It works better than some of the older-style portable door locks. While not exactly one of those fun travel gifts, it’s one of the best gifts for people who travel alone. 

Travel Gift Ideas for Fun and Adventure

Travel Journal

Product: Clever Fox Travel Journal

This uber cute eco-leather travel journal is available in 15 different colors and includes cute stickers and tons of space for planning your travel bucket list, building itineraries, budgets, and more. It’s also available in a pocket size, making it a perfect stocking stuffer for adults or teens.

Portable Camping Hammock

Product: Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock

Give the gift of relaxation with this packable hammock. The heavy-duty, yet lightweight nylon supports up to 500lb! It’s available in single,  double, and kids’ sizes, and includes clamps for hanging, as well as a storage bag for easy packing. 

World Travel-Themed Playing Cards

Product: Ridley’s Games Travel Destinations Playing Cards

This deck is filled with vibrantly illustrated landmarks, cities, and countries on many a traveler’s bucket list. This fun card deck comes with its own metal tin, making it a perfect stocking stuffer and road trip travel game for the travel addict in your life. 

50 States Water Bottle

Sponsored Product: 50 States Travel Mug

This 50 States stainless steel insulated, leakproof water bottle is an ideal gift for those adventure-loving travelers! It’s like a bucket list on a water bottle with its 50 weatherproof vinyl stickers so they can catalog their adventures. Travelers will appreciate the usefulness of this gift and the fun and joy it brings!

Scratch-Off Map

Product: Map International Store Scratch Off World Map

For a unique way to catalog and plan travels this beautiful scratch-off map is the perfect pick. Frame it and gift it to the avid traveler in your life. 

Travel-Themed Puzzle

Product: Think2Master World Destinations Puzzle

Who doesn’t love a puzzle? It’s one of my favorite ways to unwind, and this vintage travel puzzle takes the cake. This 1,000-piece puzzle highlights top destinations all over the world with its colorful images. 

World Cookbook

Product: In Her Kitchen: Stories and Recipes from Grandmas Around the World: A Cookbook

This brilliant cookbook, In Her Kitchen: Stories and Recipes from Grandmas Around the World: A Cookbook, Is both a work of art with its break-taking photographs and the love that comes alive in these recipes. Whether you’re a travel lover or a lover of food, everyone will appreciate this beautiful cookbook. 

Travel-Inspired Candles

Product: Homesick Scented Candle

Despite the name, these Homesick Scented Candles are a perfect gift to transport you to your favorite destinations. These soy wax blend candles burn have 60-80 hours of burn time, and are a delightful yet practical gift for people who travel.

Travel-Themed Coffee Table Book

Product: The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country in the World

Lonely Planet’s The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country in the World, is a gorgeous hardcover book and fabulous option for those armchair travelers with dreams to travel the world. If you know someone who would appreciate break-taking photography of the most beautiful places around the world, then this is the best gift.

Eco-Friendly Travel Gift Ideas

Reusable Silicone Food Bags

Product: Stasher Reusable Silicone Food Storage Bags

This is a great stocking stuffer for eco-friendly travelers with kids. Traveling with kids means SNACKS.  What better way to store snacks on the go than these reusable silicone bags? Save the planet while keeping the hangry kids at bay.

Bamboo Utensil Set

Product: Bamboo Travel Utensil Set

Picture this…gorgeous weather, lush gardens, and a perfectly packed picnic lunch. It’s a traveler’s dream come true. Make it an eco-friendly dream with this bamboo utensil set. They’re easy to clean, easy to tote around in each of their printed fabric satchels,  and will make you feel good about yourself. Grab a few of these for stocking stuffers!

Stainless Steel Insulated Water Filter Bottle 

Product: LifeStraw Go Series Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle

This fabulous water bottle’s filter reduces chlorine and other contaminants while filtering out all kinds of nasty bacteria, parasites, and microplastics. Any globe-trotting traveler or outdoor adventurer will love this eco-friendly, healthy hydrating gift. 

Collapsible Coffee Cup

Product: Collapsible Cup

Does the traveler on your gift list love coffee AND travel? This collapsible, silicone coffee cup is one of the best travel accessories for those coffee-obsessed travelers in your life. It’s ideal for camping or for use at the hotel in place of styrofoam or paper cups. When you’re done, just pop it up and down and stash it away in your purse or backpack for easy storage. 

Personalized Travel Gift Ideas

Personalized Luggage Tag

Product: Graphics and More Luggage Tag

I know, I know, it’s a luggage tag. But hear me out. This luggage tag can be customized with your favorite photo and text. Upload a favorite travel photo and create gorgeous luggage tags you can enjoy for years to come. 

Customized Photo Travel Map

Product: 50 States USA Photo Map

Talk about a reason to hit the road…this stunning framed photo travel map highlights all your travels and will be a gift that your traveler will treasure forever. It might just be my favorite travel gift idea on the list!

Engraved Compass

Product: Engraved Compass

For a unique, personalized keepsake, this engraved working compass is a winner. Choose from special text, initials, photos, images, logos, or names. You can also choose to have it engraved in your own handwriting. Choose from a personalized leather pouch or box to gift the compass. 

Personalized Passport Holder

Product: Handmade Leather Passport Holder

While your traveler might already have a passport holder, this personalized passport holder is another story. This gorgeous full-grain leather wallet and passport holder is personalizable. It’s handmade in the USA and offers a lifetime warranty, so you know it’s made to last. It’s a travel gift idea that will bring joy and function for years to come.

Wrapping Up: Unique Travel Gift Ideas

And there you have it– 36 awesome travel gift ideas that’ll make someone very happy. Remember, the best gift isn’t always the most expensive one – it’s the one that shows you really get their wanderlust and want to make their adventures even better.

Got a travel gift idea that’s worked wonders for your traveling friends? Drop it in the comments below – we’d love to hear about it! And hey, if you found this list helpful, why not share it with other friends who might be scratching their heads over what to get their travel-obsessed buddies?

And if you’re looking for a different kind of gift this year check out this post about why you might consider gifting experiences instead of things:

The post 36 Unique Travel Gift Ideas for Your Favorite Traveler, 2026 appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Friendsgiving, the beloved unofficial holiday that combines the best of friendship and Thanksgiving, has become an annual celebration for so many.  Whether you’re hosting for the first time or looking to spice up your annual gathering, we’ve compiled a list of the best Friendsgiving ideas to inspire your next Friendsgiving party. From decor and themes to activities and menu ideas, these easy Friendsgiving ideas will help you create a perfect Thanksgiving dinner party this year for you and your favorite people. 

This post contains affiliate links that may earn me a small commission. These come at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business!

Friendsgiving Decor Ideas

Setting the right atmosphere is one of my favorite parts of getting ready for a party, and Friendsgiving is no exception. The right decor can transform your space into a warm, inviting haven that captures the essence of gratitude and togetherness. From rustic elements to creative DIY projects, these are Friendsgiving ideas that will make your space cozy and festive and will help make your guests feel right at home.

Rustic Charm

Keep it simple and use burlap table runners, mason jars, and natural accents for a cozy farmhouse feel. 

Autumn Leaves Centerpiece

Create a stunning centerpiece for your Friendsgiving table with colorful fall leaves, pinecones, and candles. 

Gratitude Tree

Here is a simple and thoughtful Friendsgiving idea. Set up a vase full of tree branches where guests can hang tags with things they’re grateful for. You can download our printable leaves to hang on your Gratitude tree here.

Pumpkin Place Cards

Use mini pumpkins as place-setting holders for a cute and festive touch. If you have beautiful penmanship, use paint pens to write directly on the pumpkins. Or you can opt to fold mini place cards to set on top of the pumpkins. 

Fairy Lights Galore

Drape string lights around the room for a warm, cozy ambiance.

Harvest Table Runner

Create a stunning tablescape using mini pumpkins, gourds, fall flowers or greenery, and lit candles. This Friendsgiving idea creates a warm, idyllic ambiance for your dinner table.

Thankful Placemats

Provide kraft paper placemats and colored pencils or markers for guests to write or draw what they’re thankful for. This simple table decor is perfect for Friendsgiving dinners involving the kiddos. 

Autumnal Scent Bar

Light fall-scented candles around the room.  Or set out warm-scented essential oils that guests can combine with a carrier oil in a glass dropper bottle to create their own custom blend. Here is one of my favorite fall aromatherapy blends that transports you into the mountains during autumn:

Friendsgiving Photo Booth

Create a color-themed backdrop with cute props for memorable photos. This is the perfect Friendsgiving decoration that lends to some of the best mementos.

Unique Friendsgiving Themes

Why settle for a traditional Thanksgiving when you can put a creative spin on your Friendsgiving celebration? Picking a unique theme can add an extra dash of fun to your event, giving your friends something extra to look forward to and talk about long after the gathering is over. This list of Friendsgiving ideas ranges from globally inspired concepts to nostalgic throwbacks, ensuring there’s something to suit every friend group’s personality.

Friendsgiving Brunch

Ditch the traditional Thanksgiving meal and instead, host a late-morning gathering with fall-themed breakfast and lunch options. Opt for pumpkin french toast, sweet potato quiche with turkey breakfast sausage, or whatever your favorite brunch foods might be! Warm up with maple cinnamon lattes. And don’t forget the cranberry mimosas!

Friendsgiving Potluck with a Twist

Allow each guest to choose a country, and have them bring menu items inspired by that cuisine. Upgrade the typical Thanksgiving main dish, side dishes, or desserts, which in my (probably unpopular) opinion, gets rather stale. Swap those mashed potatoes for patatas bravas from Spain or ditch the mac and cheese for Käsespätzle from Germany. 

Outdoor Bonfire

Take the celebration outside with a bonfire, warm cozy blankets, and hot drinks.

Decades Theme

This is one of my favorite ideas and I can’t wait to try it! Choose a specific decade and encourage guests to dress up and bring era-appropriate dishes. Grandma’s hand-me-down cardigan and jello mold never looked so good!

Plant-Based Feast

Here’s your chance to plan a delicious Friendsgiving meal for your animal-loving friends! Challenge everyone to bring delicious vegan or vegetarian dishes to your Friendsgiving gathering. As a vegetarian, I can say that such a meal would be much appreciated!

Pajama Party

This might be the easiest Friendsgiving theme idea. Host a cozy Friendsgiving where everyone wears their favorite PJs. No worrying about what to wear and you can head straight to bed with your full belly after the party. 

Farm-to-Table Friendsgiving

Level up your Friendsgiving feast. Source all your ingredients locally and create a menu that showcases the best of your region’s seasonal produce, while you support local farmers and ranchers. 

Friends-giving

This is the ultimate Gen X/ Millennial Friendsgiving. Make your Friends-giving the real deal with a Friends-themed fall party, complete with matching turkey shirts, a turkey-head hat for photo ops, some Friends trivia, and of course a re-watch of that classic episode. 

Fall Festival

If playful is your thing, plan a Fall festival-themed Friendsgiving that will make the neighbor kids jealous. Bring out carnival-style games, snacks, and fall carnival decor. Have bags of caramel popcorn prepared as party favors.

Fun Friendsgiving Games and Activities

Friendsgiving isn’t just about the food – it’s about creating memories and sharing laughs and love with your chosen family. Incorporating games and activities into your celebration can help break the ice and keep the energy high throughout the event. From traditional Thanksgiving-inspired games to creative twists on classic party activities, these unique Friendsgiving ideas will ensure your celebration is filled with belly laughs, friendly competition, and happy people as they go back home.

Game Night

After the meal bring out all your favorite Friendsgiving party games for the ultimate game night with your pals. From family-friendly games to adult-only games, you’ll be laughing for hours! Keep the party going with your favorite game night drinks and snacks!

Check out all our favorite Friendsgiving Game Ideas in this post:

Friendsgiving Bingo

Pull out the Thanksgiving Bingo cards to keep your guests entertained before or after the big meal. Have simple fun but fun prizes for the winners, such as $5 gift cards, mini bottles of liquor, cute Tupperware containers, fall decor to take home, etc. 

Pie-Eating Contest

If your guests are into it, host a friendly competition to see who can finish a mini-pie (or full pie if your guests can stomach it!) the fastest. You’d be surprised by how competitive this can get.

DIY Craft Station

Set up an area for guests to make their own fall-themed crafts, like candles, wreaths, or centerpieces. Or get a headstart on the upcoming holiday season with some merry little Christmas crafts!

Collaborative Playlist

Every party can use some mood music. Create a shared playlist where each guest adds their favorite Thanksgiving or friendship-themed songs.

Friendsgiving Olympics

The best Friendsgiving party is full of ridiculousness, and this idea has plenty of it. Bring out your crazy party-planning skills. Organize silly competitions like pumpkin bowling, turkey trot relays, old-school bobbing for apples, and pumpkin spice taste tests. 

Gratitude Jar

If you’re not on board with the crazy shenanigans and want to instead foster a gracious and beautiful Friendsgiving atmosphere, create a simple gratitude jar.  Throughout the event, have guests write notes of gratitude to put in a mason jar, then read them aloud towards the end of the evening with a toast to your cherished friendships. This is an easy way to add thankfulness to your Friendsgiving celebration.

Seasonal Cocktail Competition

This is guaranteed to make the party even more fun. Challenge guests to create cocktails with a fall theme and then vote on the best one. For non-drinkers and kiddos, create autumn-inspired mocktails instead. I can’t think of a tastier idea for Friendsgiving!

Friend-Themed Charades

This will get you laughing and is perfect if the kids will be involved with the Friendsgiving party. Play charades with words or phrases related to Thanksgiving. You can download my free printable Thanksgiving Charades here!

Friendsgiving Food and Drink Ideas

While turkey and stuffing might be Thanksgiving staples, Friendsgiving offers the perfect opportunity to get creative with your menu. These food and drink Friendsgiving ideas put a fresh spin on holiday classics and introduce new flavors that will have your guests drooling. Whether you’re looking for innovative serving suggestions, unique recipe twists, or interactive food stations, we’ve got you covered!

Cookie Decorating

Set up a space for Thanksgiving cookie decorating. Use either homemade or bakery-made sugar cookies. Provide tubs of icing, sprinkles, and other fall-colored edible decorations. Box them up in little treat boxes as DIY party favors to enjoy at home. 

Dessert Potluck

Make a Friendsgiving party a great party with extra desserts! Ask each guest to bring their favorite fall dessert to share. And remember, there’s no such thing as too many pecan pies. 

Hot Apple Cider Bar

Want a Friendsgiving party to be epic? This just might be the ticket. Set up a station with various toppings and mix-ins for hot apple cider. Think caramel sauce, cinnamon sticks, red hots, whipped cream, spiced rum, or bourbon. 

Friendsgiving Charcuterie Board

Create a large grazing board with meats, cheeses, fruits, and nuts. It’s the perfect appetizer to get the Friendsgiving party started.

Thanksgiving Sushi

If fusion food is your thing, then this is for you: Thanksgiving sushi. Okay, hear me out. Serve turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce rolled in nori for a fusion twist for an unusual yet delicious side dish. (See recipe here)

Fall Soup Party

Forgo all the traditional Friendsgiving menu ideas and plan a Friendsgiving soup party with your favorite fall soups. Think chicken and dumplings, butternut squash soup, zuppa toscana, broccoli cheddar soup, beef stew…are you drooling yet? When it comes to a Friendsgiving with your favorite peeps, sometimes cozy comfort is the best option.

Cranberry Sauce Flight

Offer a tasting of various homemade cranberry sauces. And if you don’t feel like making your own, create your own flight with some of Stone Wall Kitchen’s fabulous gourmet flavors, including Apple Cranberry Chutney, New England Cranberry Relish, Orange Cranberry Marmelade, Holiday Spiced Cranberry Sauce,  Hot Pepper Cranberry Jelly, and Cranberry Horseradish Sauce.

Build-Your-Own Pie Bar

Provide mini pie pans, pre-made crusts, and various fillings for guests to create their own individual desserts. Enjoy the aroma of the freshly baked pies that can be eaten at your feast or taken home as a party favor. 

Leftover Care Packages

Provide cute containers for guests to take home leftovers. I love these adorable aluminum ones that are super affordable and pretty funny. Let guests bag it up with these autumn gift bags for the most aesthetically pleasing leftovers. 

Extra Special Touches to Make It Memorable

Let’s talk about those little extras that really make Friendsgiving pop. Think heartwarming activities that’ll bring out all the feels and fun ways to capture the moment. These Friendsgiving ideas are all about adding those personal touches that’ll make your Friendsgiving feel extra special. Trust me, your friends will eat this stuff up (pun totally intended)!

Friendsgiving Invitations

Create some cute Friendsgiving invitations to send to your guests! You can find so many free options on Canva! It’s my favorite place to find attractive templates that I can edit or create my own designs. These can then be printed or sent digitally. But receiving an invite in the mail does make it feel extra special! 

Polaroid Moments

Have a Polaroid-style camera for guests to take and print photos. I love the Fujifilm Instax Mini, as a budget-friendly option with great features and consistent print quality! 

Volunteer Together

Spend part of the day volunteering at a local food bank, animal shelter, community clean-up, etc. before your celebration. No time to cook after? Opt for a Friendsgiving dinner out or delicious take-out. 

Friendsgiving Awards

Create fun awards and prizes for your guests to make your Friendsgiving even more fun! Award ideas could include “Best with a Carving Knife,” “Most Festively Dressed,” “Sauce Boss,” etc. Keep it silly and light. No one wants hurt feelings at their Friendsgiving Dinner. 

Virtual Friendsgiving

This probably isn’t the most ideal Friendsgiving idea. But sometimes distance or illness makes it impossible to be with our closest friends. Set up a video call for friends who can’t attend in person to join in for a Friendsgiving toast or game.

Friendship Plant Exchange

It doesn’t have to be Christmas in order to have a gift exchange. Have guests bring small potted plants to exchange with one another. Plants are one of my favorite gifts and are a beautiful daily reminder of the person who gifted them to us. 

“Favorite Things” Gift Swap

If plants aren’t your thing, organize a gift exchange where everyone brings their favorite item under a set price limit. Cozy blankets, a cherished book, or a favorite kitchen gadget are all to-be-loved ideas for a Friendsgiving gift swap with your closest friends.   

Friendsgiving Cookbook

Have everyone bring typed copies of their dish’s recipe. Compile all the Thanksgiving recipes into a cookbook. You can purchase inexpensive binders with clear front pockets, print a quick cover, punch holes in the recipes, and tada! It’s a Friendsgiving cookbook you can add to every year! You can access my template here!

Friend-Focused Toast Time

Designate a time for guests to give short toasts celebrating their friendships. This could be before the meal or even after dessert. Find a moment when your guests are feeling relaxed and the mood is high. This is the perfect way to cap off a successful Friendsgiving. 

Wrapping-Up: 45 Creative Friendsgiving Ideas

Friendsgiving is all about celebrating our friendships and expressing gratitude for the people who make our lives so much richer. With these 45 creative Friendsgiving ideas, you have a wealth of options to make your Friendsgiving celebration truly special. Mix and match these suggestions to create an event that reflects your friend group’s personality and interests. Remember, the most important ingredient for a successful Friendsgiving is the love and laughter shared among friends. And the food. You can’t forget the food. Happy Friendsgiving!

The post 45 Creative Friendsgiving Ideas to Make Your Celebration Unforgettable appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Hey there, holiday enthusiasts! Get ready to hop aboard the merriest Christmas adventures in Texas and beyond – a Christmas train ride that’ll make your spirits soar higher than Santa’s sleigh! 

If you’ve ever dreamed of chugging along on the Polar Express or just fancy a jolly train journey with a sprinkle of Christmas magic, you’re in for a treat. Texas is serving up some seriously awesome experiences, and we’ve even snuck a peek at a few just over the border. So, grab your hot cocoa, and let’s explore the best Polar Express Christmas train rides that’ll have you jingling all the way!

1. Texas State Railroad Polar Express Train – Palestine and Rusk 

This ride offers a magical journey to the North Pole, complete with hot chocolate, cookies, and a reading of “The Polar Express.” Children receive a silver sleigh bell, just like in the story. The Christmas train ride departs from both Palestine and Rusk depots.

2. Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s North Pole Express – Grapevine

While not officially “The Polar Express,” this Christmas train ride is equally enchanting. Passengers board beautifully decorated vintage coaches for a journey to the North Pole, enjoying Christmas carols, cookies, and a visit from Santa.

3. Austin Steam Train’s North Pole Flyer – Cedar Park

This holiday train departs from Cedar Park and features a two-hour round-trip with Christmas stories, carols, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Passengers enjoy hot chocolate and cookies during the festive ride.

4. Galveston Railroad Museum’s Polar Express Train Ride – Galveston

This official Polar Express ride offers a journey to the North Pole aboard vintage rail cars at the Galveston Railroad Museum. The Christmas train ride includes hot chocolate, cookies, a reading of the book, and a gift of a silver sleigh bell from Santa.

5. Santa’s Wonderland Train Ride – College Station

While not a traditional train ride, this attraction features a Santa’s Express train that will captivate passengers with a winter wonderland of lights and Christmas displays.

6. Oklahoma Railway Museum’s Christmas Train – Oklahoma City, OK 

This Christmas train ride features Santa Claus, elves, and festive decorations. It’s a shorter ride but offers a charming Christmas experience.

7. Pablo’s Holiday Express – Santa Fe, NM 

This scenic ride through the gorgeous New Mexico landscape is decorated for the holidays and often includes carolers and a visit from Santa. Plus, with so much to see and do in Santa Fe, it’s definitely worth the trip!

8. NOLA Polar Express Christmas Train- New Orleans, Louisiana

This ride offers a magical round-trip journey to the North Pole, complete with hot chocolate, cookies, and a reading of Chris Van Allsburg’s “The Polar Express.” The story comes to life as children receive a silver sleigh bell, just like in the story. Put on your favorite Christmas pajamas and get whisked away on the Polar Express! 

9. Arkansas & Missouri Railroad Holiday Express/ Pajama Train – Springdale, AR 

This old-fashioned excursion offers breathtaking Ozark scenery along with holiday decorations, and refreshments, and often includes characters like elves and Santa. It departs from both Van Buren and Springdale stations. 

Wrapping Up

There you have it – a ticket to ride straight into the heart of holiday magic! From official Polar Express adventures that’ll make you believe in Santa all over again, to charming local trains decked out in more lights than a Christmas tree, Texas and its neighbors really know how to roll out the holiday magic on rails.

These aren’t just Christmas train rides; they’re memory-makers. Whether you’re a wide-eyed kid or just a grown-up who refuses to let go of that Christmas spirit (just me?), these train rides are your ticket to holiday cheer. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your tickets, bundle up in your favorite Christmas jammies, and get ready to make some merry memories. All aboard the holiday express!

The post 9 Magical Christmas Train Rides In and Around Texas in 2025 appeared first on MEREDITH ADKISSON.

Ladies, it’s that time of year again. The leaves are falling, the pumpkin spice is flowing, and we’re all gearing up for the great Thanksgiving migration. But let’s face it, holiday travel can be about as pleasant as Uncle Bill’s political rants at the dinner table. Yikes.

You deserve some ease during the holiday season. That’s why I’m here to help you navigate the fashion minefield of packing for Thanksgiving travel. We’re talking about holiday travel outfits that can take you from racing through airports to gracefully passing out on the couch after your third helping of your Mother-in-Law’s southern dressing. And the best part? You won’t need to lug around a suitcase bigger than your turkey.

So, buckle up (literally, because #safetyfirst), and let’s dive into the world of a Thanksgiving travel capsule wardrobe that is more versatile than your green bean casserole recipe. 

This post contains affiliate and sponsored links that may earn me a small commission. I only recommend items I love and would use myself. Thank you for supporting my small business!

The Basics of a Thanksgiving Travel Capsule Wardrobe

First things first: what exactly is a capsule wardrobe? It’s like Marie Kondo met Project Runway and had a really efficient, stylish baby. We’re talking about a collection of versatile pieces that mix and match to create multiple outfits. For Thanksgiving travel, this means packing light without sacrificing style or comfort (with emphasis on the comfort). Because let’s be honest, the only thing that should be overstuffed this holiday is the turkey.

So let’s start building your Thanksgiving travel capsule wardrobe packing list with these super stylish must-have items!

Essential Pieces for Your Thanksgiving Travel Capsule Wardrobe

The Comfy-Chic Bottoms

A pair of jeans, some cozy lounge pants and leggings, and a stylish skirt are all you need for multiple outfits that take you from the trails to the dinner table.

BLUE JEANS

For when you want to look put-together but still be able to breathe after dinner.

My Pick

luvamia Wide Leg Jeans

What I Love:

• Flattering high waist
• Stylish, trouser style, wide-leg with cuffed look
• Slight stretch helps them keep their shape and give you room to move

Check Price on Amazon

SWEAT PANTS

Because sometimes pants with buttons are just too much to ask.

MY Pick

Aleumdr Women’s High Waisted Drawstring Waist Wide Leg Sweatpants

What I Love:

• Detailing down the front makes them look neat and stylish
• Super comfy material that’s cozy but not too hot
• Can double as pajama pants, saving you space in your luggage

Check Price on Amazon

MIDI SKIRT

Preferably one that can hide gravy stains. Just kidding. (Sort of.)

Sponsored

Luvania Corduroy High-Waisted Button-Down Midi Skirt

What I Love: 

• Warm, corduroy fabric screams Autumn vibes
• Stylish, flattering, and versatile A-line cut 
• Comfortable, yet flattering elastic waistline

Check Price on Amazon

LEGGINGS

Perfect for turkey trots and chasing those deals.

my Pick

BALEAF Women’s Leggings with Pockets

What I love:

• 3 different inseam length options to fit your stature and length preference
• High waist that is flattering yet doesn’t dig in
• Supportive fabric that’s moisture-wicking and isn’t see-through

Check Price on Amazon

Layering Tops

BASIC LONG SLEEVE TEES AND TURTLENECKS 

Think solid neutral colors or a basic striped tee that can go with everything. Like Switzerland, but for your wardrobe. They’re the most versatile piece in your Thanksgiving capsule wardrobe. 

MY Pick

ANRABESS Women’s Long Sleeve Crewneck Ribbed Tops 

What I Love:

• Ribbed stretchy material holds shape well
• Super flattering and perfect for layering
• 22 color options!

Check Price on Amazon

my Pick

Areecin Mock Neck Top

What I Love:

• Stretchy, lightweight material holds shape all day
• -Flattering mock neck looks dressier than a typical tee and is perfect for layering
• 3 sleeve options, including long sleeve, sleeveless, and balloon sleeve with lace detailing.

Check Price on Amazon

my Pick

Disamer Women’s Long Sleeve Mockneck Top

What I Love:

• Stylish striped stitching around the collar and wrists
• Also available in other beautifully unique striped and color block patterns
• Soft, lightweight sweater material

Check Price on Amazon

CROPPED CARDIGAN

For when the weather outside is frightful, but Mawmaw’s heating is… even more frightful.

MY Pick

MEROKEETY Women’s Cropped Cardigan

What I Love:

• Supersoft breathable knit sweater
• Fashionable cropped length with pockets
• Can be dressed up with a skirt or over a dress or dressed down with jeans or lounge pants

Check Price on Amazon

ZIP UP HOODIE

One of my favorite pieces of clothing! Wear it as outerwear, part of your outfit, or layered under a coat, depending on the temperature. 

my pick

Trendy Queen Women’s Cropped Zip-Up Hoodie

What I Love:

• Soft fleece inner material
• Looks like a Lululemon dupe
• Thumb holes keep sleeves down and arms cozy

Check Price on Amazon

The All-Important Outer Layer

PACKABLE COAT

For escaping the madness of the indoors in favor of the potentially freezing Thanksgiving holiday weather, without overstuffing your luggage.

my Pick

Outdoor Ventures Women’s Packable Puffer Jacket with Hood

What I Love:

• Easily folds up into its own pocket to fit in your backpack or carry-on bag, so you’re not stuck carrying it around the airport
• 2 outer pockets and one inner pocket
• 16 color options

Check Price on Amazon

Shoes to Take You the Distance

SNEAKERS

 To take you from the fun run to the dinner table to the Target Black Friday sale. 

my Pick

adidas Women’s 70s Running Shoes

What I Love:

• Retro style that looks more like a casual sneaker than a running shoe
• Roomy feel (you’ll probably need to size down!)
• The comfort that you expect from Adidas shoes

Check Price on Amazon

BOOTS

For when you want to look cute but might need to make a quick escape.

my Pick

Vince Camuto Women’s Bembonie Ankle Boot

What I Love:

• Wide, block heel adds height while still being easy and comfortable to walk in
• Beautiful suede material with gold buckle accent
• Expensive-looking, high-quality shoe

Check Price on Amazon

Accessories to Spice Up Your Looks

COZY SCARF

Cold weather accessory meets necklace. 

my Pick

liniste 100% Wool Scarf

What I Love:

• Soft, luxurious wool
• Looks much more expensive than it is
• Looks beautiful with both dressy and casual outfits

Check Price on Amazon

STATEMENT EARRINGS

In my opinion, the star of the outfit. I like to go big and shiny without going too over the top. This is also the perfect way to add pops of color, if that’s your thing.

MY Pick

Sunburst Style Hoop Earrings

What I Love: 

• Made with brass and plated with 18k gold
• The “worn” gold look makes them pair with both casual and dressy outfits
• The gorgeous detailing 

Check Price on Amazon

TOTE BAG

A stylish shoulder bag that holds everything you need and is a total upgrade from your old diaper bag.

my Pick

Montana West Slouchy Hobo Bag

What I Love:

• Stylish, slouchy look
• Oversized large capacity for all the things
• Easy to dress up for down

Check Price on Amazon

10 Thanksgiving Travel Capsule Wardrobe Outfit Ideas

1. Transit Comfort (Plane, Train, or Automobile)

Sweat Pants + Long Sleeve Tee + Zip-up Hoodie + Sneakers + Scarf = comfort that doesn’t scream “I’ve given up.”

2. Casual Family Gatherings

Jeans + Turtle Neck + Open Cardigan + Boots = “I made an effort, but I’m still ready to throwdown some mashed potatoes.”

3. Dressy Thanksgiving Dinner

Skirt + Stitched Hem Top + Boots + Earrings + Bag= “Yes, I can be trusted with the good china.”

4. Black Friday Shopping

Wide Leg Jeans + Stitched Neck Top + Sneakers + Coat + Tote = “Bring it on. I’m ready for anything.”

5. Turkey Trot or Fun Run

Leggings + Long Sleeve Tee + Zip-Up Hoodie + Sneakers = “I’m burning calories so I can eat more pie.”

6. Date Night

Skirt + Buttoned Cardigan + Statement Earrings + Boots + Bag = “Oh, this old thing? I just threw it on.”

7. Cooking Extravaganza

Sweatpants + Mock Neck Top + Sneakers = “Stir, baby, stir”

8. Outdoor Adventure

Leggings + Mock-Neck Top + Coat + Sneakers + Scarf= “Get me out of this house!”

9. Parade Poised

Leggings + Long-Sleeve Tee + Zip-Up Hoodie + Coat + Sneakers + Scarf = “I’m prepared to stand in the freezing cold for hourrrrrs.”

10. City Chic

Jeans + Buttoned Cardigan + Boots + Earrings + Scarf + Bag = “I do own clothes other than yoga pants.”

Packing Tips and Tricks

• Create a detailed packing list- it will keep you from throwing in extra things you don’t need. I’ve created an Autumn Packing list for you!
• Roll, don’t fold: It saves space and reduces wrinkles. It’s like yoga for your clothes.
• Use packing cubes: They’re like Tetris for your suitcase.
• Stuff your shoes: With socks, not stuffing. We’re not savages.
• Wear your bulky items while traveling (boots, heavy jackets, pants, etc) to avoid overpacking and save on baggage fees
• Pack comfy clothes that could also double as pajamas
• If you don’t need anything dressy, leave it at home!

For more packing tips and tricks check out our packing guides below:

Caring for Your Clothes While Traveling

• Always pack a travel-sized stain remover: Because gravy happens.
• Bring laundry detergent sheets for any necessary loads of laundry or sink washes
• Bring a wrinkle-release spray: It’s like Botox for your clothes.
• Freshen up activewear by hanging it in a steamy bathroom: It’s a spa day for your sweaty clothes.

Wrapping Up: Thanksgiving Travel Capsule Wardrobe

There you have it, ladies – a Thanksgiving travel capsule wardrobe that’s more flexible than your yoga instructor and more put-together than your Instagram feed. With these tips, you’ll be ready for all the Thanksgiving traditions from family photos to food comas, all while keeping your suitcase lighter than Grandma’s “low-fat” mashed potatoes.

Remember, the key to a relaxing Thanksgiving is being comfortable, and stylish, and having enough stretch in your waistband. So pack smart, dress well, and focus on what really matters – creating memories, dodging awkward questions about your love life, and sneaking extra servings of mashed potatoes.

Safe travels, and may your stuffing be tasty and uncomfortable conversations be short!

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If you’re reading this, you might be feeling that it’s time to shake up your Turkey Day. If you’re weary of the same old Thanksgiving routine that has your kids reaching for their phones faster than you can say, “Pass the cranberry sauce,” you’re in the right place. We’ve got 25 Thanksgiving traditions that will help take your Turkey Day from ordinary to a memory you’ll want to replicate for years to come.  

Whether you’re planning a large family gathering, an intimate Thanksgiving celebration, or hosting Friendsgiving for all your pals, these traditions are perfect for either occasion. So let’s dive in and check out these 25 Thanksgiving activities that will bring your family together and nurture an atmosphere of fun, love, and gratitude. 

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Free Thanksgiving Traditions Downloads

You can find our free printable gratitude tree leaves and kid-friendly Turkey Day Scavenger Hunt, as well as our editable template for your family cookbook down below in our post. Or simply click the buttons to jump ahead to them:

Why Mix It Up This Thanksgiving?

Just like any special holiday, Thanksgiving is often full of busyness and pressure. The shopping, cleaning, cooking, hosting, family drama, and expectations can take a special day and pile on the pressure and stress until you feel more burnt out than an over-cooked turkey.

Planning some intentional Thanksgiving traditions aside from the usual cooking marathon and Thanksgiving dinner can allow you to take a break from the busy and monotonous and focus on the important. 

These ideas are all about bringing the family together, creating lasting memories, relaxing and actually enjoying each other’s company. No cringe, less fuss—just time together with a focus on what’s really important. 

We’ve grouped these ideas into categories, so you can easily pick and choose fall activities to curate a special Turkey Day that’s unique to your family’s personalities and likes. Feel free to skip over what doesn’t work for you and opt for traditions that your whole family will enjoy. 

Practice Gratitude: Thanksgiving Traditions that Cultivate Thankfulness

1. Gratitude Tree

Set up a small “tree” with blank ornaments. You could use a tabletop-sized artificial tree. But I like to put several thin tree branches in a large vase to use as my thankful tree. It makes a beautiful centerpiece for your Thanksgiving holiday table or sideboard! Throughout November, family members write what they’re thankful for on the leaf-shaped paper ornaments and hang them up.

I’ve created printable leaf-shaped cut-outs for your thankful tree. This is also a great activity for practicing cutting skills, so let the kiddos get involved! 

2. Thanksgiving Time Capsule

Each year, have everyone write down something they’re grateful for and a goal for the next year. Seal it up and open it the following Thanksgiving. This is a great tradition to start with young kids, but don’t be afraid to start it when they’re older!

3. Gratitude Photo Montage

Challenge family members to take photos or videos of things and moments they’re grateful for leading up to Thanksgiving. Combine to create a slideshow or video to share on Thanksgiving. You can easily create and edit videos using CapCut’s free online video editor. Or if you have some artsy types in your family, create a photo collage that can be framed. It’s a piece of art you’ll forever cherish. 

4. Thankful Jar

If you’re looking for a simple activity to give thanks that requires minimal prep, create a thankful jar. This can be done throughout the year or just in the month of November. Have your family members jot down or draw pictures of things they’re thankful for and put them in a jar. Go through them together on Thanksgiving.

Beyond the Basic Bird: Delicious Food Traditions 

5. Family Cookbook Creation

Collect and compile everyone’s favorite family recipes into a shared cookbook. This is perfect if you have extended family or friends who regularly get together for the holidays! 

Give yourself some time, because this one takes a little prep. Ask everyone to type up and send you 2-3 (or more!) of their favorite Thanksgiving recipes. 

You can easily copy and paste and format them all in Canva for free. While you’re there, create or use one of their templates for a cookbook cover and table of contents. If you don’t have Canva, you need it! It’s a game changer and allows you to create incredible projects so much easier than Word, PowerPoint, or other programs. With their free templates, you’ll create designs in a fraction of the time it would normally take you.

I’ve created a free Cookbook Cover and Table of Contents Template that you can edit and customize on Canva to make it your own. You can check out my free template here!

Grab some cheap 1″ 3 ring binders and dividers with pockets (for saving Grandma’s handwritten recipes, aka treasures), print it all out,  and compile those recipe books. You could even save this step for Thanksgiving Day and turn it into a post-dinner project. 

5. Signature Dish Competition

Each family brings their signature dish. Vote on favorites in different categories like “Most Creative” or “Best Presentation.” This is a little friendly competition that might be safer than fighting over the wishbone.

6. Kids’ Cooking Class

A few days before Thanksgiving, invite older family members to teach the kids how to make a simple Thanksgiving dish or dessert. It’s a special way to pass on Granny’s famous gravy recipe and share family traditions while creating treasured memories.

7. Thanksgiving Cocktails

Each year, try or create a new Thanksgiving cocktail to enjoy before or after the meal. Think fall flavors, like cranberry, apple, cinnamon, pomegranate, or vanilla. And for the kids and non-drinkers, whip up some mocktails! This is a tasty tradition that will make you the star of the Thanksgiving table.

Create the Best Thanksgiving Vibe: Thanksgiving Table Decor Traditions

8. Nature-Inspired Decor

Take a family walk to collect pinecones, acorns, dried flowers, nuts, and leaves to create natural, eco-friendly decorations. You can fill jars with acorns and nuts, Mod Podge dried leaves and flowers to glass candle holders or vases, create garlands with pine cones and twine, etc. Use your creativity and enjoy free, festive and natural decor. 

9. Memory Tablecloth

Creating a memory table is such a simple tradition that you’ll absolutely love. Use a plain tablecloth and fabric markers. Each year, everyone adds a note or drawing. Over time, it becomes a treasured family record that you can pull out on every holiday.

10. Photo Centerpieces

Create centerpieces featuring photos of family members from past Thanksgivings. This photo tree or these little wired holders for place cards are perfect for dressing up the table while displaying photos. And don’t forget to take a group photo before everyone leaves that can be added to next year’s Thanksgiving table.

11. Handprint Turkey Placemats

A classic for a reason! Kids make handprint turkeys on placemats, date them, and laminate them to be used year after year. 

Get Moving: Fun and Active Thanksgiving Traditions 

12. Run a Turkey Trot

Sign up for (or organize your own) family fun-run or walk on Thanksgiving morning for a heart-pumping way to start your Thanksgiving day. No pressure, just movement and some outdoor time together. Plus you’ll feel a lot better about yourself after that 3rd piece of pumpkin pie that afternoon. 

13. Post-Dinner Walk

If the morning is too much, make it a tradition to take a post-Thanksgiving meal stroll after the big meal. If you’re like us, all you can think of is taking a nap after engorging all those carbs. Taking a walk will wake you up and help you get some of that turkey tryptophan out of your system. 

14. Turkey Bowl

It’s the classic Thanksgiving touch football game. Make it annual, with a silly trophy for the winning team. Invite friends and neighbors to round out the teams.  And don’t forget to tell the losing team that they get dishes duty. Instead of a coin toss at the beginning of the game, opt for splitting the wishbone. Whoever ends up with the longer piece gets the ball first. 

15. Thanksgiving-Themed Scavenger Hunt

Create a Thanksgiving-themed scavenger hunt. For younger kids, you can opt for our at-home Turkey Day Scavenger Hunt. You download it by clicking the button below. If you have older kids and teens, they’ll love this scavenger hunt by Fun Squared, that takes them around town and the neighborhood. The first team back wins a prize! This was one one of my favorite things to do as a teenager (and it’s fun for adults, too!)

Helping Others: Giving Back as a Family Tradition

16. Volunteer Together

Find a local charity or soup kitchen and volunteer to serve as a family on Thanksgiving morning or the weekend before. It’s a great time to give back to your community and is one of the most fulfilling Thanksgiving traditions I can think of.

17. Write Thank You Cards

This is a perfect pre-Thanksgiving activity to get everyone in the spirit of gratitude. Have everyone write thank-you notes to someone special and mail or deliver it to them. This could be anyone from your mail carrier, a teacher, a grandparent, or the clerk at the dry cleaner. A thoughtful card is something everyone appreciates.

18. Canned Food Drive

Plan a family or neighborhood food drive. Collect canned food or non-perishable items the entire month of February and deliver them to a food pantry before Thanksgiving. 

19. Charity Choice

Each year, research and choose a charity as a family to support during the holiday season. I love the Salvation Army Angel Tree or “adopting” a student from a local school. Black Friday is the perfect time to shop for gifts for these deserving kids. 

Relax and Enjoy: Favorite Festive Entertainment Thanksgiving Traditions 

20. Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade:

If you don’t already watch this, I’d like to know which rock you’ve been living under. Kidding, kidding. But seriously, this is a Thanksgiving classic tradition for a reason and the first thing we do on Thanksgiving morning. From the Broadway Dance performances to the marching bands and larger-than-life floats, it’s a magical experience even from the sofa. It’s also one of my favorite ways to kick off the holiday season with the grand entrance of Santa on his sleigh!

21. National Dog Show

Right after the parade ends, the real star of Thanksgiving Day entertainment comes on: the National Dog Show. I might be a die-hard cat lady, but these prim and proper puppy dogs with their show-stopping tricks and haircuts are the real stars on Thanksgiving Day. This is definitely in the top 3 of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions!

22. Football

Being a Texas girl, it would be sacrilegious to not tune into the Dallas Cowboys game on Thanksgiving afternoon. The post-dinner football game is the perfect time to unwind later in the day and enjoy that second piece of pecan pie for dessert. 

23. Play Thanksgiving Games

 Set up a series of board games, dominoes, or card games. Some of our favorites are Telestrations, Yahtzee, Uno, hand and foot, tens and twos, and chicken foot. You could also opt for pool, ping pong, tennis, or pickleball if you have access to them!

The Fun Doesn’t Stop Here: Day After Thanksgiving Traditions: 

24. Leftover Remix Contest

The day after Thanksgiving, have a friendly competition to see who can create the best dish using leftovers. It’s a creative way to use up all that turkey, stuffing, and green bean casserole left in the fridge. 

25. Shop ’til You Drop

Plan out your Black Friday Shopping on Thursday and then hit the stores together on Friday. Nab some of those incredible deals and take turns waiting in those mile-long lines. Reward yourself with a latte and slice of leftover pumpkin pie. And if you hate shopping, feel free to skip this one.

Wrapping Up: 25 Thanksgiving Traditions 

These 25 ideas are just the starting point. The best Thanksgiving traditions are the ones that grow naturally with your family over time. Maybe you’ll try one or two this year, and who knows? In a few years, you might have a whole new set of traditions that are uniquely yours.

Remember, the heart of Thanksgiving isn’t about the perfect pie crust or Pinterest-worthy decor.  It’s about coming together around the table, sharing laughs, and gratitude, and creating moments that you’ll treasure and look forward to recreating in the coming year.

So, why not try some new Thanksgiving traditions? You might just start a tradition that has your family looking forward to Turkey Day more than ever before. And if all else fails, there’s always pie. Pie makes everything better.

Happy Thanksgiving and cheers to beautiful memories!

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