6 Thanksgiving Cartoons That Bring Holiday Nostalgia

Thanksgiving is one of those holidays that brings out both heartwarming moments and hilarious chaos — and what better way to soak it all in than with some animated specials and episodes designed just for this season? Here are some of the best Thanksgiving cartoons and animated TV moments to stream or watch with your family, whether you’re looking for nostalgia, laughs, or a little wholesome reflection.

1. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

A timeless classic, this 1973 Peanuts special is cozy, humble, and full of gratitude. Peppermint Patty crashes Charlie Brown’s Thanksgiving expecting a big turkey dinner but he only knows how to make toast, popcorn, and pretzel sticks. Still, the gang comes together in their own imperfect but loving way.
This special is perfect for families who want something gentle, nostalgic, and heartfelt.

2. Garfield’s Thanksgiving

This 1989 TV special leans into Garfield’s gluttonous charm. When Jon takes Garfield to the vet before Thanksgiving, he finds out Garfield’s on a diet right before the big holiday.
Expect classic Garfield grumbling, funny mishaps, and a heartwarming (and very food-focused) climax. It’s a nostalgic pick for both kids and grown-ups who love the lasagna-loving cat.

3. A Winnie the Pooh Thanksgiving

Set in the Hundred Acre Wood, this sweet 1998 special brings Pooh and friends together for a makeshift Thanksgiving feast.
They hunt for “traditional” dishes (in Pooh-style: honey, acorns, lemonade) and learn that the real joy isn’t in the food, but in being together. It’s soft, musical, and full of gentle life lessons ideal for younger kids or anyone who loves Pooh’s calm wisdom.

4. The Mouse on the Mayflower

4. The Mouse on the Mayflower

A lesser-known but charming classic, this Rankin/Bass special tells the story of a church mouse named Willum on the Mayflower, chronicling the pilgrims’ first Thanksgiving.
The animation has vintage warmth, and the tale combines history, adventure, and a small but very brave mouse. It’s great for a cozy, storybook-style Thanksgiving viewing.

5. Thanksgiving in the Land of Oz

This 1980 special reimagines the Land of Oz (yes, that Oz) with a Thanksgiving twist. Dorothy meets a green turkey, faces toy-tinkering villains, and ultimately helps build a feast.
It’s whimsical, slightly offbeat, and perfect if your family enjoys fantasy mixed with holiday cheer.

6. Fluppy Dogs

For something a little exuberant and quirky: Fluppy Dogs is a one-hour animated special that aired on Thanksgiving Day in 1986.
It features pastel-colored interdimensional dogs, lots of heart, and the kind of warm, oddball humor that makes for a fun and unexpected Thanksgiving watch. Bonus: it’s a little nostalgic for ’80s animation fans.

Why These Cartoons Work for a Family Thanksgiving

Nostalgia + Comfort: Specials like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving and The Mouse on the Mayflower bring a warm, old-school feel that’s perfect for grounding the holiday in tradition.

Humor for All Ages: Whether you’re watching Garfield’s sarcasm or Bob’s Burgers’ eccentric family dynamics, there’s something here to make both kids and adults laugh.

Life Lessons Gently Served: Stories like Pooh’s hunt for food or Dorothy’s journey in Oz highlight gratitude, friendship, and the true meaning of togetherness.

Variety: From vintage tales to modern sitcom-style episodes, you can pick based on how much time you’ve got and what vibe you want.