Thanksgiving is around the corner, and what better way to welcome the season than with a family tradition that celebrates all the little things we’re grateful for? The Thankful Pumpkin game is a fun, creative, and heartfelt activity that the whole family can enjoy. Plus, by the end of the month, you’ll have a pumpkin covered in words of gratitude—an inspiring centerpiece that’s perfect for Thanksgiving dinner!
How to Play the Thankful Pumpkin Game
- Get Your Pumpkin: Choose a pumpkin of any size—it can be as small or as large as you like! If you’re using a larger pumpkin, it might even last as a lovely centerpiece for several weeks.
- Choose Your Markers: Grab a permanent marker or paint pen, ideally in a color that will stand out. Consider using different colors if you want each family member to have their own shade, adding a personalized touch.
- Daily Gratitude: Each day in November, gather as a family and take turns adding a note of gratitude to the pumpkin. It could be something simple, like “sunny days,” or more personal, like “our family dinners.” Encourage everyone to be specific and think of something unique each day.
- Watch the Pumpkin Grow with Gratitude: As the days go by, your pumpkin will fill up with words of thanks and love. By the end of the month, it’ll be covered with little moments and blessings you’ve appreciated together.
- Use It as a Thanksgiving Centerpiece: On Thanksgiving Day, place your Thankful Pumpkin at the center of the table. Read out some of the things your family has written to celebrate the abundance of gratitude you’ve shared throughout the month.
Why the Thankful Pumpkin Game is So Meaningful
This tradition not only encourages daily reflection but also brings the family together in a truly special way. With each day’s addition, you’ll be reminded of the many blessings you might otherwise overlook. It’s a powerful way to see how much joy and connection can come from the simple act of recognizing and sharing gratitude.
Ideas for Getting Creative with the Thankful Pumpkin
- Make it a Family Event: Have a weekly family gathering to add multiple notes at once. This can be a great way to kick off each week with gratitude!
- Decorate Around the Words: Kids may enjoy adding small drawings, doodles, or patterns around the words, making the pumpkin as colorful as their appreciation.
- Invite Guests to Add Their Gratitude: If you have friends or extended family over, invite them to add to your Thankful Pumpkin too. It’s a wonderful way to share the tradition with others.
Join Us in Making Gratitude a Family Tradition
The Thankful Pumpkin game is a simple but powerful activity that turns November into a month-long celebration of all we have to be grateful for. It helps us focus on the positive, teaches our kids the value of gratitude, and brings the whole family closer together.
Try it with your family this year, and let’s make gratitude grow! 🎃

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