13 Thanksgiving Movies and TV Shows to Stream This Week

Thanksgiving is this week, and whether you’re traveling to see loved ones or staying in for a Friendsgiving, you’re going to want to have a list of streaming, holiday-themed movies and shows in your back pocket in case you need them. While there are a million December holiday-centric options (you can check out this year’s Hallmark and Freeform lineups), but Turkey Day TV episodes and movies are a little harder to come by. Still, there are some options currently available on the streaming services to get you by.

The 2020 Netflix film centers around best friends Molly and Abby who plan to have Thanksgiving together. Things get more interesting when unexpected guests — like Molly’s estranged mother with one of Molly’s ex-boyfriends in tow — show up.

Stream on Netflix

The second season of the “Top Chef’ host’s food and travel docuseries is focused around holidays. In episode 202, Lakshmi visits the Wampanoag people of Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard to deconstruct the narrative around Thanksgiving and share how they keep their culture and traditions alive.

Stream on Hulu

In “Shibboleth” (season 2, episode 5) C.J. Gregg, played by the perfect Allison Janney, is left with a choice of two turkeys. Who should she pardon, and who will be eaten? As always, the side plots are as hilarious and thoughtful as the main event.

Stream on HBO Max

In this holiday rom-com, a woman attempts to come out to her family by bringing her girlfriend home, but the arrival of her (male) roommate throws a wrench in her plans.

Stream on Peacock

The animated series takes Thanksgiving seriously (but in a hilarious way). Every Turkey Day episode is a gem, but if you have to pick one, go with season 3’s “An Indecent Thanksgiving Proposal.” Mr. Fischoeder rents out Bob’s family to impress an old flame. Bob gets weird with his eternal flame, the turkey. Hijinks ensue. 

Stream on Hulu

The 1973 film is a classic, but it won’t be on broadcast TV this year. You can still watch it on Apple TV, and it’s free for non-subscribers to stream Wednesday November 23 through Sunday November 27.

Stream on Apple TV+

Watch the stunning, quietly hopeful “Thanksgiving” (season 2 episode 8). If you haven’t seen the rest of the Aziz Ansari-led show, it’s fine: this episode stands on its own in every sense of the word.

Streamon Netflix

There’s a lot to love about the 2003 classic: the fresh and touching plot, the real look at relatives, and stellar performances from Katie Holmes, Derek Luke, and wish-they-were-your-parents Oliver Platt and Patricia Clarkson. But a big part is that Thanksgiving takes place in an apartment on the Lower East Side.

Streaming on HBO Max

Navigating this most American holiday is interesting even when you’ve grown up with stuffing and pie. What will the Wus do when their Cornish game hens show up still clucking? Find out in “Huangsgiving” (season 2 episode 8).

Stream on Hulu

Need a laugh? Here’s a ridiculous comedy about a couple hosting Thanksgiving shortly after finding out about a ridiculous political situation (cue the chaos).

Rent on Amazon

In this classic (season 5 episode 8), the friends reminisce about their worst Thanksgivings.

Stream on HBO Max

Directed by Jodie Foster, the ’90s hit is all about a dysfunctional family dinner at Thanksgiving (so if you think your situation is rough, watch this).

Watch on Freeform or rent on Amazon

A more kid-friendly option is “Free Birds,” an animated movie about the lucky turkey who gets pardoned by the President — that is, until he’s scouted for a time-traveling mission.

Watch on STARZ or rent on Amazon

Do you have a favorite? Share in the comments below!