1. Gratitude Tree
Set up a Gratitude Tree, where guests can write what they’re thankful for on paper leaves and share them during dinner. These trees are available on Amazon or Etsy, and make an easy yet meaningful centerpiece.
2. Gratitude Jar
Place a jar on the table for guests to write down moments they’re thankful for over the past year. After dinner, take turns reading them aloud, sparking conversations about the year’s blessings.
3. Gratitude Stones
Decorate your Thanksgiving table with smooth stones placed on top of each place setting. Guests can reflect on something meaningful, write their gratitude on the stone and take it home as a keepsake.
4. Pass the Gratitude Game
Create a bowl of gratitude-themed conversation starters (e.g., “Who helped you most this year?” or “What was your favorite moment of the year?”). Pass it around the table, with each guest sharing their thoughts as they go.
5. Shared Gratitude Playlist
Ask each guest to contribute a song that represents a moment of joy or gratitude from the past year. Compile the songs into a playlist to stream during the celebration that you can then share with everyone.
6. Gratitude Collage
Invite guests to send a digital photo of a moment that brought them gratitude this past year. Create a collage, either by printing the images for a physical display or turning them into a digital collage via a service like Shutterfly. It’s a great conversation starter and a visual tribute to the year.
7. Gratitude Time Capsule
Ask guests to bring a photo or small token representing their gratitude for the year. Pass a time capsule around for everyone to contribute their item or write down their thankfulness. Set a date to open it next Thanksgiving or in a few years, making this a cherished tradition.
Josephine Atluri is an author, certified health, wellness and meditation coach and the founder of Mindful Wellbeing Pathways, a company dedicated to supporting and empowering people on their bioindividual wellness journeys. jatluri.com