The Most Iconic Thanksgiving TV Episodes

To some, Thanksgiving is all about the food, football, and of course—family drama. Whether you enjoy the holiday or not, many can agree that TV show episodes about Thanksgiving hit just like a plate full of mashed potatoes.


Here are some of my favorite Thanksgiving TV episode’s that I constantly rewatch throughout the year, not just in November.


Gossip Girl: “The Treasure of Serena Madre” (3x11)

All of the Gossip Girl Thanksgiving episodes are definitely memorable, but this one is my favorite. Instead of giving thanks together, a lot of drama stirs between the crew and many secrets are spilled. Serena and Trip’s affair is exposed, Blair thinks her mother is pregnant, and drama between Rufus and Lily arises. Arguably one of the best scenes in the episode is when every member leaves the dinner table while “Whatcha Say” by Jason Derulo plays in the background. “And I want pie,” Blair says at the table—after all this drama so do I, B.


New Girl: “Parents” (2x08)

This next episode had me cracking up the whole time. New Girl is one of the only shows that makes me laugh out loud and this episode is no exception. In an attempt to get her parents back together, Jess tries to “parent trap” them, which ultimately backfires. On the other hand, Schmidt and his cousin are feuding over who really deserves the “Schmidt” name. This Thanksgiving episode features a little less turkey and way more family drama.


Friends: “The One with All the Thanksgivings’” (5x08)

For obvious reasons, this is my favorite Friends Thanksgiving episode. While the crew is complaining (mostly Ross) about things going on in their lives, they begin to reminisce about holidays in the past. Not only do we see childhood flashbacks, but also past Thanksgiving’s that the crew spent together. This episode is bound to cause a lot of laughter, even without putting a turkey over your head.


Glee: Thanksgiving (4x08)

Though Glee only had one Thanksgiving episode throughout the entire series—it is still iconic. Meanwhile, the new “New Directions” are performing at sectionals, Kurt and Rachel are living out their “Manhattan destinies” with a nontraditional Thanksgiving dinner. The rest of the crew spent the holiday together at their beloved Breadsticks restaurant. Stirring up a little drama for Rachel Berry, her new love interest, Brody, joins her and Kurt for the meal.


That 70’s Show: Thanksgiving (1x09)

Ending the list off strong, the Thanksgiving episode of That 70’s Show is one of my favorites. This episode aired during the first season and absolutely had me laughing. Kitty decides to throw Thanksgiving at the Formans and when their daughter, Laurie, brings home a friend from school, Eric cannot control himself. Red’s mother and Bob also cause some drama for the holiday, and of course, Eric and the gang are always up to something.


All of these TV episodes are absolutely iconic and bound to make you realize that maybe your family isn’t so crazy after all. Whether you want a juicy drama or need a laugh this Thanksgiving, one of these is bound to do the trick.

What’s your favorite Thanksgiving episode? Leave a comment below.