Classic Thanksgiving Cartoons That Still Hold Up

“Garfield’s Thanksgiving” showcases the titular tabby going on a diet as Thanksgiving fast approaches. At the same time, Garfield’s owner, Jon, invites his crush, Liz, the veterinarian, to dinner. The only problem is Jon isn’t a maestro in the kitchen. And that leads to a disaster only his grandmother can clean up. Viewers everywhere love this animated holiday flick for its humor and happy ending.

4. “The Berenstain Bears Meet Bigpaw” (1980)

Based on the renowned children’s books, “The Berenstain Bears Meet Bigpaw” is a unique movie. It’s a Thanksgiving film where the main characters get involved in a monster hunt. The Berenstain Bears prepare for the arrival of a ravenous Bigfoot-esque cryptid known as Bigpaw. Luckily, the creature’s friendlier in person, and everything leads to a beautiful Thanksgiving feast.

3. “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” (1973)

“A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” centers around the renowned lovable blockhead getting ready for the holiday. His plans soon take a turn when his friends suddenly invite themselves over for dinner. The gang begins putting together a feast that ends up a mess. But they manage to turn things around and enjoy a makeshift dinner of junk food. A true holiday classic, this movie features a Friendsgiving that emphasizes friends can be family.

2. “The Mouse on the Mayflower” (1968)

A hidden gem, “The Mouse on the Mayflower” retells the story of the Pilgrims. The main difference is that an anthropomorphic church mouse named Willum tells the tale. He takes the audience on a charming and song-filled recount of the first Thanksgiving. And the best part is it’s brought to us by Toei Animation and Rankin/Bass.

1. “Tom Turk and Daffy” (1944)

“Tom Turk and Daffy” is one of the most popular Looney Tunes Thanksgiving cartoons. It features Daffy Duck agreeing to hide a turkey from becoming Porky Pig’s holiday dinner. Unfortunately, he turns stool pigeon after hearing more about the mouthwatering menu. What happens next is the turkey disguising the screwloose waterfowl as another turkey. And that leads to a slapstick chase that’s worth laughing at every year on Thanksgiving.

Final Thoughts on These Thanksgiving Cartoons

Save for “Tom Turk and Daffy,” I’m unfamiliar with these Thanksgiving cartoons. I’ve heard of but never had the chance to see “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.” However, I was completely unaware of the existence of the other three cartoons. Toei and Rankin/Bass’ “The Mouse on the Mayflower” especially took me by surprise.

Nevertheless, each of these Thanksgiving cartoons sounds like ideal holiday entertainment. I can honestly see myself watching them as I cook this year’s family feast. Maybe I will this year, and I hope the rest of you do too. Just make sure to do it before gorging yourself, or you’ll fall asleep.