Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, delicious food, and gathering with loved ones. As the pies are devoured and the turkey coma sets in, the challenge often becomes keeping the energy high and the conversation flowing, especially among young adults.
Finding the perfect activities to engage everyone can transform a good holiday into a truly memorable one. That’s where a fantastic selection of games comes in, offering laughter, friendly competition, and plenty of bonding opportunities.
This article curates a list of the best Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults, designed to entertain diverse personalities and group sizes. Whether your family prefers strategic thinking, quick wit, or outright silliness, there’s something here for every kind of gathering.
We’ve scoured the options to bring you top picks that promise to inject fun into your post-dinner festivities. From budget-friendly card games to more involved board games, this collection covers a wide range of preferences and price points.
Get ready to discover the perfect additions to your holiday traditions. These Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults are sure to create lasting memories and plenty of joyful noise long after the dinner dishes are cleared.
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1. Codenames
Codenames is a fantastic word association game that challenges players to think creatively. Two teams compete to identify their secret agents from a grid of word cards.
Spymasters give one-word clues that can point to multiple words on the board. Their teammates then try to guess the correct words while avoiding the opponent’s agents and a dreaded assassin.
It’s a brilliant blend of strategy, communication, and deduction. Perfect for groups who enjoy a mental workout and collaborative thinking, making it one of the best Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
This game offers endless replayability and can spark hilarious discussions about clue interpretations. It’s a mid-range priced option that delivers exceptional value for its engaging gameplay.
2. Sushi Go Party!
If you’re looking for a quick, delightful, and easy-to-learn card game, Sushi Go Party! is an excellent choice. Players draft cute sushi-themed cards, trying to create the best combinations for points.
This expanded version of the original Sushi Go! offers more variety with different menu options, allowing for customized gameplay. It’s fast-paced and keeps everyone engaged as cards are passed around.
It’s perfect for families seeking a lighthearted game that can be played in short bursts. The charming artwork and straightforward rules make it accessible for almost any age group, especially young adults.
This budget-friendly game is a top pick for its ability to bring smiles and quick fun to your Thanksgiving gathering. It’s a great palate cleanser between more intense activities.
3. Exploding Kittens
Exploding Kittens is a highly popular, strategic version of Russian roulette, but with adorable, sometimes absurd, kitten illustrations. Players draw cards until someone draws an Exploding Kitten.
Various action cards allow players to defuse the kitten, peek at the deck, skip turns, or even relocate the dreaded exploding card. The goal is to be the last player standing without an Exploding Kitten.
This game is ideal for groups who appreciate quirky humor and simple, yet strategic, gameplay. Its quick rounds and unexpected twists make it incredibly exciting.
It’s a budget-friendly option that promises plenty of laughs and gasps, making it a strong contender for fun Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults. The artwork alone is often enough to get people talking.
4. Cards Against Humanity
For those who enjoy irreverent humor and aren’t easily offended, Cards Against Humanity is a classic party game. Players fill in the blanks of “prompt” cards using their funniest “answer” cards.
The game thrives on pushing boundaries and celebrating politically incorrect jokes. It’s designed to be shocking and often hilarious, depending on your group’s sense of humor.
This game is perfect for groups of young adults who know each other well and share a similar comedic sensibility. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart or younger audiences.
As a mid-range priced game, it offers endless combinations and opportunities for outrageous fun. It remains one of the top choices for adult-oriented Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
5. Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is a wonderfully strategic yet accessible board game about building railway routes across a map. Players collect colored train cars to claim routes between cities.
The goal is to complete destination tickets, connecting specific cities, while also trying to block opponents. Its elegant design and satisfying gameplay have made it a modern classic.
It’s perfect for groups who enjoy a bit of strategy but don’t want anything too overwhelming. The rules are easy to grasp, but mastering the game requires clever planning.
This mid-range to premium board game offers a more substantial gaming experience than a card game. It’s an excellent choice for a relaxed evening of engaging, competitive fun among young adults.
6. Telestrations
Telestrations is often described as the “telephone game sketched out.” Each player starts with a word, sketches it, then passes their booklet. The next player guesses the drawing, then sketches that guess.
The process continues, often leading to wildly different and hilarious interpretations by the end of the round. The joy comes from seeing how a simple word can transform through drawing and guessing.
This game is perfect for creative types, those who love to laugh, and groups of all artistic skill levels. No drawing talent is required, as bad drawings often make the game even funnier.
It’s a mid-range priced game that guarantees outbursts of laughter and memorable moments. Telestrations is certainly one of the most entertaining Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
7. Wavelength
Wavelength is a social guessing game that centers around intuition and communication. Two teams compete to read each other’s minds across a spectrum of concepts.
A “psychic” draws a card with a pair of opposing concepts (e.g., “Hot – Cold”) and spins a dial to a secret target. They then give a one-word clue that falls somewhere on that spectrum.
Their teammates try to guess where the psychic’s clue lands on the spectrum. It’s a game about finding common ground and understanding subtle nuances, perfect for sparking conversation.
This mid-range game is ideal for groups who enjoy thoughtful discussion and cooperative play. It offers a unique twist on party games, making it a fresh option for Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
8. Throw Throw Burrito
Throw Throw Burrito is a high-energy, dodgeball card game that combines card collecting with physical action. Players quickly collect sets of cards, but certain card combinations trigger a “burrito brawl.”
When a brawl happens, players grab soft, foam burritos and throw them at each other. It’s chaotic, fast-paced, and incredibly silly, guaranteed to get everyone moving and laughing.
This game is perfect for energetic groups who aren’t afraid to get a little wild. It’s a fantastic way to burn off some of that Thanksgiving feast energy.
As a mid-range priced game, it provides an unforgettable, active experience that stands out from typical board games. It’s an undeniable choice for fun-loving Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
9. Monikers
Monikers is a hilarious party game where teams try to guess names of famous people, fictional characters, or even obscure concepts. It’s played in three rounds, each with different rules.
The first round allows any clues, the second limits clues to one word, and the third round is charades-only. The repetition of names throughout rounds makes it increasingly funny and challenging.
It’s excellent for groups who enjoy charades, Pictionary, and quick-thinking word games. The game encourages creativity and often leads to inside jokes that last long after the holiday.
This mid-range game provides immense replayability with hundreds of unique cards. It’s a top contender for engaging and uproarious Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
10. The Jackbox Party Pack (Digital Code)
The Jackbox Party Packs are collections of digital party games played using phones or tablets as controllers. You only need one copy of the game on a console or computer connected to a screen.
Each pack contains 5 unique games, ranging from trivia and drawing to fill-in-the-blank and social deduction. Popular games include Quiplash, Drawful, and Trivia Murder Party.
These packs are perfect for tech-savvy groups who enjoy variety and interactive digital experiences. They eliminate the need for physical game pieces and are incredibly convenient.
As a mid-range digital purchase, a single Jackbox Party Pack offers hours of diverse entertainment. They are among the most versatile and modern Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
11. Beat That! – The Bonkers Battle of Wacky Challenges
Beat That! is a game filled with absurd, physical challenges that are simple to understand but surprisingly difficult to execute. Players bet on their ability to complete tasks like bouncing balls into cups or balancing items.
The challenges use common household items or simple props included in the box. It’s all about coordination, a steady hand, and a willingness to look a little silly for the sake of fun.
This game is ideal for energetic groups who enjoy lighthearted competition and don’t mind getting up and moving. It’s a great way to break the ice and get everyone interacting.
As a mid-range priced game, it offers a refreshing change from traditional sit-down games. Beat That! is a top choice for active and boisterous Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
12. Unstable Unicorns
Unstable Unicorns is a strategic card game about building a powerful army of unicorns. Players collect unicorns, use magic, and deploy “Neigh” cards to sabotage opponents’ plans.
The goal is to be the first to complete your “Unicorn Stable” with a certain number of unicorns. The game features adorable yet mischievous artwork and plenty of player interaction.
It’s perfect for groups who enjoy strategic card games with a touch of playful destruction. The direct player interaction and ability to thwart others’ plans keep the game exciting.
This budget to mid-range game offers depth and replayability, appealing to those who like a bit more strategy than a simple party game. It’s a great option for competitive Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
13. What Do You Meme?
Similar in spirit to Cards Against Humanity but focused on internet culture, What Do You Meme? challenges players to create the funniest memes. One player draws a “picture card” (a meme image).
Other players then select one of their “caption cards” to pair with the image, aiming for the most hilarious combination. The judge picks the winner, and rounds continue.
This game is perfect for young adults who are fluent in meme culture and enjoy contemporary humor. It thrives on quick wit and a good understanding of internet trends.
As a mid-range priced game, it provides endless laughs and is a staple at many young adult gatherings. It’s a top contender for modern Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
14. Poetry for Neanderthals
From the creators of Exploding Kittens, Poetry for Neanderthals is a word-guessing game with a unique twist. Players can only use one-syllable words to give clues.
If a player uses a word with more than one syllable, they get hit with a “NO!” stick. Teams race against the clock to guess as many words as possible.
This game is incredibly challenging and hilariously frustrating, forcing players to simplify their language in amusing ways. It’s a fantastic brain-teaser and laugh-inducer.
It’s a budget to mid-range priced game that is perfect for groups who enjoy word puzzles and silly restrictions. It stands out among Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults for its unique concept.
15. Punderdome: A Card Game for Pun Lovers
Punderdome is exactly what it sounds like: a game dedicated to the art of the pun. Players draw two topic cards, and then have a short amount of time to come up with a pun that combines both topics.
The judge for the round decides which pun is the best, awarding points. It’s a game that celebrates clever wordplay and quick thinking.
This game is perfect for wordsmiths, creative thinkers, and anyone who appreciates a good (or bad) pun. It’s a fantastic way to get brains working in a fun, lighthearted manner.
As a budget-friendly option, Punderdome offers a unique challenge that can lead to genuinely hilarious and groan-worthy moments. It’s a unique choice for Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
16. Herd Mentality
Herd Mentality is a party game where the goal isn’t to be unique, but to blend in with the herd. Players are asked a question, and secretly write down an answer.
If your answer is the most common among the group, you win cows. If your answer is the only one, you get the pink cow and are penalized until someone else gets it.
This game is perfect for groups who enjoy psychology, social dynamics, and trying to predict how others think. It often reveals surprising insights about your friends and family.
As a budget-friendly game, Herd Mentality is easy to learn and offers a fresh take on party games. It’s a top choice for engaging and thought-provoking Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
17. The Resistance: Avalon
The Resistance: Avalon is a game of hidden identities, social deduction, and bluffing set in the Arthurian legend. Players are secretly assigned roles as loyal servants of Arthur or agents of Mordred.
The loyal servants must successfully complete quests, while the agents of Mordred try to sabotage them without revealing their identities. It’s a game of intense discussion, accusations, and trust.
This game is perfect for groups who love strategic thinking, role-playing, and intense social interaction. It thrives on deception and careful observation of player behavior.
As a mid-range game, Avalon offers deep strategic gameplay and requires significant player engagement. It’s one of the best Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults for those seeking high-stakes fun.
18. New Phone, Who Dis?
From the creators of What Do You Meme?, New Phone, Who Dis? is another text-message-themed party game. Players match prompt cards (incoming texts) with their funniest reply cards.
The game captures the humor of modern digital communication, with plenty of relatable and absurd scenarios. It’s quick to learn and encourages creative, often sarcastic, responses.
This game is ideal for young adults who spend a lot of time texting and appreciate humor based on everyday digital interactions. It’s a great way to bond over shared experiences.
As a budget-friendly game, it offers quick rounds and consistent laughter. It’s a strong contender for lighthearted and contemporary Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults.
19. Code of Conduct
Code of Conduct is an adult party game that challenges players to discuss and debate hilarious moral dilemmas. Players are presented with a scenario and must argue for or against a specific action.
The game sparks lively discussions, reveals different perspectives, and often leads to surprising revelations about friends and family. It’s all about justifying your stance, no matter how outlandish.
This game is perfect for groups who enjoy philosophical debates, humorous arguments, and aren’t afraid to share their (sometimes questionable) opinions. It’s designed to be thought-provoking and funny.
As a mid-range priced game, Code of Conduct offers a unique blend of humor and intellectual engagement. It’s a great option for Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults who like to talk and debate.
20. Sequence
Sequence is a classic strategy board game combining elements of tic-tac-toe and poker. Players try to create rows of five chips on the board using cards from their hand.
The game involves careful card management, strategic chip placement, and blocking opponents. It’s easy to learn but offers enough depth to keep players engaged throughout.
This game is perfect for groups who enjoy traditional board games with a good mix of luck and strategy. It’s accessible for various age groups, making it a versatile choice for family gatherings.
As a budget-friendly game, Sequence provides timeless entertainment and has been a favorite for generations. It’s a reliable choice among the top Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults for broad appeal.
21. Quip-Lash: A Jackbox Party Game (Standalone)
While often part of a Jackbox Party Pack, Quip-Lash can also be purchased as a standalone digital game. Players answer hilarious prompts with their wittiest responses on their phones.
These responses are then pitted against each other, and the rest of the group votes for their favorite. It’s a pure test of comedic timing and quick thinking.
This game is perfect for groups who enjoy improv, wordplay, and competitive humor. It thrives on the creativity and quick wit of its players, often leading to unforgettable one-liners.
As a budget-friendly digital game, Quip-Lash offers immense replayability and is guaranteed to generate endless laughs. It’s one of the best Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults for sheer comedic fun.
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As you gather your loved ones this Thanksgiving, remember that the best moments often come from shared experiences and hearty laughter. This curated list of Thanksgiving Games For Young Adults offers a fantastic starting point for creating those cherished memories.
From strategic board games to quick-witted card games and even active challenges, there’s truly a game for every preference and group dynamic. You can’t go wrong with any of these top selections, each promising to add a unique flavor of fun to your holiday.
Consider your group’s personality and energy levels when making your choice. Whether you opt for a game that sparks deep conversations or one that encourages chaotic silliness, the goal is to enjoy time together.
Take a moment to check current prices and availability on Amazon for these excellent games. Bringing one or two of these along will surely elevate your Thanksgiving celebration, ensuring it’s filled with joy and unforgettable moments for all the young adults present.
About the Author
I dig until I hit truth, then I write about it. Diane here, covering whatever needs covering. Rock climbing clears my head; competitive Scrabble sharpens it. My engineering background means I actually read the studies I cite. British by birth, Canadian by choice.
