10 Fun Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt Ideas to Engage Kids

Last Updated: February 28, 2026By Tags: , , ,


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Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt Ideas for Kids

As Thanksgiving approaches, families gather to celebrate and express gratitude. While feasting on turkey and pumpkin pie is a delightful tradition, adding a Thanksgiving scavenger hunt can elevate the festivities, especially for the little ones. Not only does it provide entertainment, but it also encourages teamwork and creativity. Here are some engaging ideas to help you organise a memorable Thanksgiving scavenger hunt for kids.

1. Thanksgiving-Themed Clues

Create a series of clues that lead participants to various locations around the house or garden. Incorporate Thanksgiving-themed riddles or poems that, when solved, will guide them to the next clue. For example:

“I am often dressed in a yellow coat, with a fluffy white hat that you can take a gloat. Find me where the pumpkins grow; a harvest delight that’s sure to show.”

The answer here could lead them to the pumpkin decoration in the garden or any festive display within the house.

2. Nature Scavenger Hunt

Take the scavenger hunt outdoors and embrace the beauty of autumn. Provide a list of items for kids to find in the garden or local park. Examples could include:

  • A red or orange leaf
  • A nut (like acorn)
  • A pine cone
  • A feather

Encourage them to collect these items in a small bag while discussing the significance of nature during this season of harvest.

3. Thanksgiving Arts and Crafts Hunt

Combine creativity with the scavenger hunt by searching for items that can be used for Thanksgiving crafts. Create a list of supplies for kids to find, such as:

  • Colourful construction paper
  • Glitter or sequins
  • Markers or coloured pencils
  • Autumn leaves

Once they’ve found the items, gather to create Thanksgiving decorations or cards expressing gratitude. This not only allows for creativity but also promotes togetherness as they share their artworks.

4. Thankful Notes Hunt

This idea fosters gratitude and reflection. Prepare cards with prompts for kids to fill in, such as "I am thankful for…" or "I appreciate…" Hide these cards around the house and let the kids find them. After the hunt, gather everyone together and have each child read out their responses. It’s a lovely way to remind them of what Thanksgiving truly represents.

5. Turkey Trot Challenge

Incorporate a bit of physical activity with a ‘Turkey Trot’ challenge. Set up a mini obstacle course in your garden or living room and hide turkey-related items along the way, such as toy turkeys, feathers, or images of turkeys. The kids can race to complete the course whilst collecting as many turkey-themed items as they can. You could even have small prizes for those who collect the most!

6. Thanksgiving Bingo

Put a twist on the traditional scavenger hunt with a Thanksgiving-themed bingo game. Create bingo cards filled with items commonly associated with the holiday such as a turkey, cranberry sauce, a pie, corn, and family gatherings. As the kids find these items around the house or during the feast, they can mark them off their bingo cards. This adds an element of competition and fun to the hunt.

7. Mystery Bag Hunt

Prepare several mystery bags filled with various Thanksgiving-related items (e.g., mini pumpkins, toy turkeys, festive decorations). Hide the bags around your home, and provide kids with clues or riddles to find each one. Once they locate a bag, they can open it to discover its contents, making for an exciting surprise with each find.

Final Thoughts

A Thanksgiving scavenger hunt is a perfect way to get kids involved and find joy in the holiday season. Whether you choose a nature, arts and crafts, or clue-based hunt, you’ll create lasting memories and strengthen family bonds. Tailor the ideas to suit the ages and interests of your children and allow their imaginations to run wild. So gather your supplies, prepare your clues, and let the Thanksgiving scavenger hunt begin! Happy hunting!


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