Thanksgiving Trivia

110+ Best Thanksgiving Trivia Questions & Answers

Mike Oberman

Updated: January 8th, 2025

Gather around the turkey! It's time to look at some Thanksgiving trivia. Look at some Thanksgiving facts, history, traditions, food, and so on. Let's go!

General Thanksgiving Trivia

Question: Which presidential bigwig decided that turkeys deserve a second chance at life?

Answer: Harry Truman

Question: Who penned the classic rhyme about Mary's mischievous lamb that follows her around like a sidekick?

Answer: Sarah Josepha Hale

Question: Which clucky organization is in charge of delivering the president’s annual feathered VIP guest?

Answer: The National Turkey Federation

Question: What high-flying spectacle was mysteriously absent from the very first Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade? Hint: No giant helium-filled surprises!

Answer: Balloons

Question: Besides the shopping frenzy known as Black Friday, what other meaningful day do we celebrate the day after Thanksgiving?

Answer: Native American Heritage Day

Question: How many brave souls sailed the Mayflower, embarking on a historic Thanksgiving journey to the New World?

Answer: 102

Question: On what date did the Mayflower set sail from England, kicking off the first Thanksgiving adventure?

Answer: September 6, 1620

Question: Which Founding Father declared, “No U.S. citizen shall skip turkey on Thanksgiving Day,” making gobbling mandatory?

Answer: Alexander Hamilton

Question: A fowl fiasco on Thanksgiving gave rise to which convenient meal trend that revolutionized leftovers?

Answer: Frozen TV dinners

Question: What whopping percentage of Americans gobble up turkey to honor the Thanksgiving tradition?

Answer: 88%

Question: What’s the colossal weight of the heaviest turkey ever strutting its stuff on Thanksgiving?

Answer: 86 pounds

Question: How many daring dashers took to the streets in America’s inaugural turkey trot?

Answer: Six

Question: What do Americans crown as the ultimate triumph of Thanksgiving, ensuring the feast lives on?

Answer: The leftovers

Question: Each year, how many pecks do people send through the Butterball turkey talk line seeking birdy banter?

Answer: 100,000

Question: According to Henry Ward Beecher, which sneaky sin can ruin the turkey-tastic spirit of Thanksgiving?

Answer: Pride

Thanksgiving History Trivia

Question: If the first Thanksgiving was an epic saga, how many days did the feast last?

Answer: 3 Days

Question: The inaugural Thanksgiving was less about food and more about... What was the main event of the three-day shindig?

Answer: A three day harvest festival

Question: Forget turkey! What exotic meats were the stars of the first Thanksgiving feast?

Answer: Venison and duck

Question: Which groovy year saw the green bean casserole make its grand Thanksgiving debut?

Answer: 1955

Question: Which intense Revolutionary War battle had soldiers hitting pause for a day of turkey and gratitude?

Answer: The Battle of Saratoga

Question: Guess what high-flying surprise was missing from the very first Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade? Hint: No helium heroes!

Answer: Balloons

Question: Which historic city proudly hosts the oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade, long before New York stole the spotlight?

Answer: Philadelphia

Question: Touchdowns and turkeys! In what year did the first Thanksgiving NFL game take the field?

Answer: 1920

Question: Strap on your walking shoes! How many miles does the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade route stretch?

Answer: 2.5 miles

Question: Not all Thanksgiving treats are fan favorites. Can you name one of the top three side dishes people groan about?

Answer: Cranberry sauce

Question: Cranberries have a secret identity. What’s their playful nickname?

Answer: Bounceberry

Question: Pop a can! In what year did cranberries first make their way into a can for Thanksgiving convenience?

Answer: 1912

Question: Which iconic Thanksgiving side was brought to your table by the masterminds at Campbell's in 1955?

Answer: Green bean casserole

Question: Which quirky U.S. city boasts the title of "Pumpkin Capital of the World," perfect for your pie cravings?

Answer: Morton, Illinois

Thanksgiving Entertainment Trivia

Question: What toe-tapping fiddle tune features our feathered friend the turkey, making its way into Thanksgiving playlists?

Answer: “Turkey in the Straw”

Question: In which time-traveling turkey blockbuster do two gobblers embark on a mission to save Thanksgiving?

Answer: Free Birds

Question: What sneaky household hazard triples its mischief on Thanksgiving Day?

Answer: Home fires

Question: How many years can a turkey strut its stuff before meeting its fate, and at what age do they typically hang up their feathers for the feast?

Answer: 15 years

Question: Which sunny state gobbles up the most turkey every Thanksgiving, proving it's the ultimate bird lover's paradise?

Answer: California

Thanksgiving Facts Trivia

Question: In what legendary year did President Lincoln give Thanksgiving its official stamp, forever changing holiday dinners?

Answer: 1863

Question: Which pie flavor reigns supreme at every Thanksgiving feast, making every slice a slice of heaven?

Answer: Pumpkin

Question: Which president flexed his power to make Thanksgiving a yearly tradition on the fourth Thursday of November?

Answer: Franklin D. Roosevelt

Question: Before showing off their red outfits, what color were cranberries naturally?

Answer: White

Question: Can you guess how many turkeys are gobbled up in the US each Thanksgiving? It's a number so big, it's almost gobbling up reality!

Answer: 46 million

Question: At the very first Thanksgiving in 1621, what was the main meat dish that wasn’t your usual turkey? Hint: It’s deer-licious!

Answer: Venison (deer meat)

Question: What’s the classic drink that keeps everyone cozy while enjoying turkey and pie on Thanksgiving?

Answer: Apple cider

Question: How heavy was the largest pumpkin pie ever baked, enough to make even the biggest dessert table gasp?

Answer: 3,699 pounds

Question: At a toasty 325°F, how long does each pound of turkey need to roast to perfection?

Answer: 15 minutes per pound

Question: Which legendary band, led by reggae superstar Bob Marley, rocked the halftime show at the first Thanksgiving Day football game in 1974?

Answer: The Wailers (Bob Marley's band)

Thanksgiving in Songs Trivia

Question: Which timeless Thanksgiving jam has us racing "over the river and through the woods" to grandma’s cozy abode?

Answer: "Over the River and Through the Woods"

Question: Which cheerful tune by Irving Berlin sings, "I've got plenty to be thankful for," making our gratitude playlist complete?

Answer: "I've Got Plenty to Be Thankful For"

Question: In which harmonious hymn do we "gather together to ask the Lord's blessing," perfect for those reflective Thanksgiving moments?

Answer: "We Gather Together"

Question: Which ABBA classic belts out gratitude with the catchy line, "Thank you for the music, the songs I'm singing"?

Answer: "Thank You for the Music" by ABBA

Question: Which country melody by Mary Chapin Carpenter croons about a thankful heart with the line, "It's a time to be thankful for all we've got"?

Answer: "Thanksgiving" by Mary Chapin Carpenter

Question: Which evergreen holiday hit proclaims, "It's the most wonderful time of the year," and sneaks its way into our Thanksgiving playlists?

Answer: "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year"

Question: Which comedic masterpiece by Adam Sandler tells the tale of a turkey who's "a little bit nervous" about Thanksgiving?

Answer: "The Thanksgiving Song" by Adam Sandler

Question: Which feel-good band released "Thank You for Being a Friend," famously known as the theme for "The Golden Girls"?

Answer: Andrew Gold

Question: Which legendary singer delivers a heartfelt "Thanksgiving Prayer," highlighting the true essence of gratitude during the holidays?

Answer: Johnny Cash

Question: Which soulful track by Natalie Merchant includes the nostalgic line, "These are days you'll remember," perfect for reminiscing Thanksgiving moments?

Answer: "These Are Days" by Natalie Merchant

Thanksgiving in Movies Trivia

Question: In the classic road-trip comedy "Planes, Trains & Automobiles," what quirky profession does the lovable Del Griffith hustle in to keep the journey interesting?

Answer: Shower curtain ring salesman

Question: Which beloved Thanksgiving-themed film stars everyone's favorite little beagle, Charlie Brown, as he navigates holiday chaos?

Answer: "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving"

Question: Who took the director's chair to helm the hilariously dysfunctional family drama in "Home for the Holidays"?

Answer: Jodie Foster

Question: Which heist-filled movie revolves around a family's cunning plan to swipe a giant balloon from the Thanksgiving Day parade?

Answer: "Tower Heist"

Question: In the comedy "Dutch," what’s Dutch Dooley’s noble mission during the Thanksgiving festivities?

Answer: To pick up his girlfriend's son from boarding school and bring him home for the holiday

Question: Which romantic flick features the charming line, "If I cook, all of my guests will say, 'Oh, everything is so good,'" during a Thanksgiving tête-à-tête?

Answer: "You've Got Mail"

Question: In "Pieces of April," what heartfelt goal does the protagonist strive for to make her Thanksgiving dinner unforgettable for her estranged family?

Answer: To create a successful and memorable meal for her estranged family

Question: Which heartwarming movie showcases a Thanksgiving dinner that takes an unexpected turn when the main character's date wrestles with her ex-boyfriend?

Answer: "The Blind Side"

Question: In "Son in Law," what wild character does Pauly Shore's Crawley unexpectedly bring into a family's Thanksgiving gathering?

Answer: Crawl

Question: Which quirky film features a Thanksgiving-themed high school talent show known as the "Turkey Day Play"?

Answer: "Addams Family Values"

Question: In the romantic comedy "Serendipity," what Thanksgiving dessert symbolizes destiny for the star-crossed lovers?

Answer: Pumpkin pie

Question: Which animated adventure follows a chef on a wild road trip to rescue his prized turkey that's gone AWOL just before Thanksgiving?

Answer: "Free Birds"

Question: What real-life historic event serves as the chilly backdrop for the Thanksgiving weekend in the introspective film "The Ice Storm"?

Answer: The 1973 energy crisis

Question: Which ensemble film depicts a group of friends reuniting for a Thanksgiving dinner that spirals into delightful chaos?

Answer: "The Big Chill"

Question: In the comedy "For Your Consideration," what Thanksgiving-themed movie is hilariously being filmed within the story?

Answer: "Home for Purim"

Question: Which animated feature includes a heartwarming Thanksgiving dinner scene where a turkey is spared and officially joins the family?

Answer: "Free Birds"

Question: In "Funny People," which comedian's televised Thanksgiving roast unexpectedly turns into a tearful apology?

Answer: Adam Sandler

Question: Which heartwarming comedy follows a man who transforms into a cross-dressing nanny to host a memorable Thanksgiving dinner?

Answer: "Mrs. Doubtfire"

Question: In "Sweet November," which holiday steals the spotlight during the final scenes set around Thanksgiving?

Answer: Christmas

Question: Which laugh-out-loud movie features a Thanksgiving dinner where a spontaneous food fight erupts at the table?

Answer: "The Nutty Professor"

Thanksgiving Traditions Trivia

Question: What classic Thanksgiving ritual has you sneaking a peek and making a secret wish with a turkey’s bony treasure?

Answer: Making a wish with the wishbone

Question: Which annual showdown on Thanksgiving Day brings together professional football giants for gridiron glory?

Answer: Thanksgiving Day football

Question: What iconic parade marches through New York City every Thanksgiving, dazzling crowds with giant balloons and festive floats since 1924?

Answer: Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Question: In some homes, what heartwarming tradition involves everyone sharing something they’re thankful for around the dinner table?

Answer: Sharing gratitude or going around for Thanksgiving blessings

Question: Which creamy and buttery side dish is mashed up to perfection, making it a must-have on every Thanksgiving plate?

Answer: Mashed potatoes

Question: What sweet and velvety corn-based delight often steals the spotlight as a southern Thanksgiving side dish?

Answer: Corn pudding

Question: What delectable pie flavor makes a sweet appearance alongside pumpkin pie, adding a nutty twist to Thanksgiving desserts?

Answer: Pecan pie

Question: What thoughtful act involves setting an extra place at the Thanksgiving table for a surprise guest or to honor someone special?

Answer: Setting an extra place or an empty chair for an invited or absent guest

Question: After stuffing yourselves with turkey and pie, what cozy tradition involves curling up with a Thanksgiving-themed movie or binge-watching your favorite shows?

Answer: Post-Thanksgiving dinner entertainment or Thanksgiving movie/TV show marathon

Question: What generous tradition sees folks rolling up their sleeves to volunteer at shelters or community centers, serving up Thanksgiving meals to those in need?

Answer: Thanksgiving volunteering or serving Thanksgiving meals to the less fortunate

Thanksgiving Food Trivia

Question: What spiced pumpkin sensation bakes its way into every Thanksgiving table, hiding a creamy custard treasure beneath a flaky crust?

Answer: Pumpkin pie

Question: Which beloved side dish combines crunchy bread cubes, savory herbs, and a splash of broth, then gets a golden crispy makeover in the oven?

Answer: Stuffing or dressing

Question: Which tart and tangy berry brings a burst of color and flavor to Thanksgiving plates, making cranberry sauce a must-have condiment?

Answer: Cranberries

Question: What juicy centerpiece is roasted to perfection with crispy skin, stealing the spotlight as the star of every Thanksgiving feast?

Answer: Roast turkey

Question: Which creamy green delight, topped with crispy fried onions, turns fresh green beans into a Thanksgiving classic casserole?

Answer: Green bean casserole

Question: What flaky dough hugs sweet or savory fillings in pies and tarts, making every bite a buttery masterpiece?

Answer: Pastry crust

Question: Which creamy comfort food mash-up blends fluffy potatoes with milk and butter, then gets drenched in rich, savory gravy for the ultimate Thanksgiving indulgence?

Answer: Mashed potatoes and gravy

Question: What versatile bread type transforms into delicious stuffing cubes, whether you prefer the classic white or the hearty cornbread twist?

Answer: White bread or cornbread

Question: Which sweet root veggie gets a marshmallow makeover, turning into a golden-brown, buttery delight that’s hard to resist on Thanksgiving?

Answer: Sweet potatoes or yams

Question: What luscious sauce, made from the savory drippings of a perfectly roasted turkey, adds that extra oomph to every Thanksgiving bite?

Answer: Turkey gravy