Thanksgiving may not have as many famous songs as Christmas, but the right music can make your holiday gathering more memorable. From nostalgic classics to upbeat tunes about food and family, these 16 Thanksgiving songs offer something for every part of the celebration.
Key Takeaways
The best Thanksgiving songs celebrate gratitude, family, friendship, and togetherness.
A Thanksgiving playlist can mix classic pop, jazz, humorous songs, and heartfelt ballads.
For religious gatherings, traditional Thanksgiving hymns can complement popular holiday music.
Thanksgiving Songs About Gratitude
These songs focus on appreciation, kindness, and finding joy in everyday life. They're especially fitting for a relaxed Thanksgiving dinner or a quiet moment of reflection.
1. "The Thanksgiving Song" — Ben Rector
Released in 2020, Ben Rector's The Thanksgiving Song celebrates the familiar comforts of Thanksgiving, from gathering with loved ones to enjoying a holiday meal. Its warm, nostalgic message makes it an ideal addition to a family playlist.
2. "Thankful" — Kelly Clarkson
From Clarkson's 2003 debut album, "Thankful" is an upbeat expression of appreciation for someone who brings love and support into your life. It's a fitting choice for celebrating the people who make the holidays special.
3. "Thankful" — Josh Groban
Josh Groban's uplifting ballad encourages listeners to recognize life's blessings and extend kindness to others. Its reflective message works especially well during Thanksgiving dinner.
4. "Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep)" — Bing Crosby
Originally featured in the 1954 film White Christmas, this Irving Berlin classic encourages listeners to focus on what they have rather than their worries.
Although associated with Christmas, its message of gratitude makes it equally appropriate for Thanksgiving.
5. "Thank You" — Dido
Dido's mellow pop song celebrates how the presence of someone special can brighten an otherwise difficult day. Its relaxed sound makes it suitable for background music while guests gather.
6. "What a Wonderful World" — Louis Armstrong
This timeless classic celebrates the beauty of nature, human connection, and life's simple pleasures. Armstrong's warm vocals create a reflective atmosphere for a Thanksgiving meal.
7. "I've Got Plenty to Be Thankful For" — Bing Crosby
Featured in the 1942 film Holiday Inn, this cheerful song by Irving Berlin is a playful reminder to appreciate life's blessings. Its classic sound adds a touch of nostalgia to any Thanksgiving playlist.
For families who prefer religious music, explore these nine Thanksgiving hymns of gratitude, including "We Gather Together" and "Come, Ye Thankful People, Come."
Fun Thanksgiving Songs for Cooking and Dinner
Not every Thanksgiving song needs to be sentimental. These upbeat selections bring humor, nostalgia, and energy to the kitchen or dining room.
8. "Thanksgiving Theme" — Vince Guaraldi
Recognizable from A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, this jazzy instrumental is a Thanksgiving classic. Its gentle piano melody creates a cozy atmosphere without distracting from conversation.
The composition appears on the official A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving soundtrack.
9. "Sweet Potato Pie" — Ray Charles and James Taylor
Food and music come together in this playful duet from Ray Charles' Genius Loves Company. Although the song is really about romance, its delicious title makes it a natural fit for Thanksgiving dinner.
10. "The Thanksgiving Song" — Adam Sandler
For a more humorous addition, Adam Sandler's Thanksgiving comedy song has been entertaining listeners since its debut on Saturday Night Live in 1992.
Its absurd references to turkey and holiday traditions make it an amusing choice for a lighthearted gathering.
11. "Mashed Potato Time" — Dee Dee Sharp
This energetic 1962 dance hit isn't specifically about Thanksgiving, but its food-inspired title makes it a fun addition to the holiday playlist. Play it while preparing dinner or cleaning up afterward.
12. "Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie" — Jay & The Techniques
With its catchy rhythm and dessert-inspired title, this 1967 pop hit fits right into the festive atmosphere. It's especially appropriate when the Thanksgiving pies come out.
Thanksgiving Songs About Family and Togetherness
For many people, Thanksgiving is about reconnecting with loved ones. These songs celebrate friendship, home, and the relationships that make holiday gatherings meaningful.
13. "Home" — Phillip Phillips
This uplifting folk-pop song reminds listeners that home is about more than a physical place. Its message of comfort and belonging makes it a meaningful addition to a family celebration.
14. "93 Million Miles" — Jason Mraz
Jason Mraz's heartfelt song explores the enduring love between parents and children. It's particularly fitting for families reuniting after spending time apart.
15. "Better Together" — Jack Johnson
With its relaxed acoustic sound, "Better Together" celebrates the simple joy of sharing life with someone special. It's a natural fit for a cozy Thanksgiving gathering.
16. "Thank You for Being a Friend" — Andrew Gold
Best known for its association with The Golden Girls, this cheerful song is a celebration of friendship and loyalty.
It's a wonderful choice for Friendsgiving or any gathering where friends feel like family.
How to Create the Perfect Thanksgiving Playlist
A good Thanksgiving playlist should complement the celebration without overwhelming conversation.
Start with gentle jazz or acoustic songs while guests arrive. Add upbeat tracks during cooking and food preparation, then switch to softer music during dinner.
You can also invite family members to choose songs that remind them of meaningful experiences or people they're thankful for.
Music is just one way to make the holiday special. Explore more Thanksgiving traditions inspired by cultures around the world for additional ways to celebrate gratitude and togetherness.
Make Every Celebration Memorable
Whether you're sharing a meal, reconnecting with friends, or starting new family traditions, music can help create lasting memories.
At the Universal Life Church, we believe life's meaningful moments deserve to be celebrated. If you'd like to help create one for someone you love, you can get ordained online for free to officiate weddings for friends or family and lead other special ceremonies.
