Thanksgiving Just Got Even Better With These Festive Songs

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Listen, it's pretty easy to have fun on Thanksgiving—because what's not to enjoy about spending time with family, eating savory Thanksgiving meals, washing it all down with a refreshing Thanksgiving cocktail? The only thing that could possibly make it better is a groovy Thanksgiving playlist filled with some festive tunes! Music is the answer to anything and everything, if we're being honest. In fact, we curated an entire list of the best Thanksgiving songs that you could play at any holiday gathering, or even a Friendsgiving.

There will definitely be a song on this list for you, no matter what you're into. And we can assure you that playing these tunes in the kitchen while you cook and get the house ready will leave you feeling more refreshed than ever. (And some of them will work for your next family dance party!) Basically, just like a good Thanksgiving dinner, there's something for everyone. With artists like Dolly Parton and Bing Crosby, and genres ranging from country and pop to jazz and R&B, you're bound to find a Thanksgiving song to which you'll want to sing along. (Just don't do it with your mouth full of turkey!)

Coat Of Many Colors

We can always count on Dolly Parton songs to get us in the spirit. This classic tune inspired by the star's childhood is all about gratitude and showing love to family—a perfect choice for Thanksgiving.

This Land Is Your Land

A hit that everyone knows the words to, even if you don't remember where you learned them from. Peter. Paul, and Mary's rendition of this staple ballad is just what we needed this time around.

(Do The) Mashed Potatoes

Now your favorite Thanksgiving side dish can be food and a dance! This one will get everyone moving.

Be Thankful

Can't get anymore simple than this! Natalie Cole's voice is soothing anytime of year, but there's just something so special about it during the holidays. She reminds us of a simple lesson: To be thankful!

Thank God for Hometowns

This one will hit home for those who've left their childhood hometown! Nothing like visiting the place where all of your early memories were made for the holidays, and Carrie Underwood captures the feeling so vividly.

Stretchy Pants

It's no secret that we're gonna eat come Thanksgiving, and eat good at that! So, Carrie Underwood is reminding us to throw on our "stretchy pants" as we prepare to have seconds, thirds, and... multiple servings of our favorite meals this year.

Give Thanks & Praises

A Bob Marley song can match any occasion, but this one is especially perfect for Thanksgiving. Put this on as part of your soundtrack during your holiday meal, and the mood will be set just right.

Thank You Friends

Is this your new BFF anthem?! Having a solid group of friends is one of life's biggest blessings, so go ahead and dedicate this to them this holiday.

Pass The Peas

The name of this song is a saying we know all too well come Thanksgiving. Its' soulful melody and jazzy trumpet is what makes up the entire song. Very few words, but lots of warm feelings come out of this track by The J.B.'s.

Harvest Moon

A sweet song about young love during the harvest season. Neil Young's tune is a nostalgic one that'll make you melt the second you hit play.

Thank You

Being thankful around the November holiday is a common feeling, but Dido's song really puts into perspective as to why we should take a moment to reflect on all that we have. It's no question why it's on this list!

I Want to Thank You

Otis Redding is thankful for a lot, including his exes! Singing about them and the lesson's he's learned about love is the only way he knows how to mend a broken heart.

Thanksgiving (Live)

This one might seem straight forward, but sometimes, that's what we need! If Christmas songs are jolly, then this Thanksgiving tune is straight up gratifying!

Thanksgiving Theme

We all have a soft spot for Charlie Brown and the many movies in the franchise. So it goes without saying that this holiday tune is great for kids, but could also have any adult feeling nostalgic.

Everybody Eats When They Come to My House

A catchy song about being grateful and full during Thanksgiving is right on brand. Though. anyone hosting the holiday festivities will feel an extra sense of pride listening to this.

This Land Is Your Land

A hit that everyone knows the words to, even if you don't remember where you learned them from. Peter. Paul, and Mary's rendition of this staple ballad is just what we needed this time around.

Cooking Up Something Good

If you know you're going to spend lots of time with the apron on ahead of the holidays, then we suggest adding this song to your playlist as you get to work! It'll have you feeling motivated to whip up those meals with love and care.

'Tis Autumn

Nat King Cole swooned us over with her iconic "la-di-da, di-da-di-dum" sung in her soothing voice. We'd be lying if we said we didn't belt this out from time to time.

I Thank You

If you're a fan of soul music, you'll love this track. It's got the perfect, Thanksgiving-ready vibe.

(What A) Wonderful World

This simple, classic song has stood the test of time for a reason! Give it a listen as you whip up mashed potatoes to remind yourself what the holiday's really about.

I Could Not Ask For More

Here's an on-theme song—and all of your guests will know the words, too!

It Don't Have to Change

"Oh, do you remember when the family was everything?" These nostalgia-inducing lyrics will have you wiping away happy tears (and tapping your feet!).

Meanwhile Back At Mama's

If you're longing to be home with family this November, you'll want to press play on this Tim McGraw classic. Featuring Faith Hill, it's a tearjerker with a beautiful melody.

Coat Of Many Colors

We can always count on Dolly Parton songs to get us in the spirit. This classic tune inspired by the star's childhood is all about gratitude and showing love to family—a perfect choice for Thanksgiving.

Thankful

What better way to celebrate Turkey Day than with this former American Idol star? Sing along to this ballad about gratitude as you whip up pumpkin puree in the kitchen.

Home

This sentimental song by Phillip Phillips is an ode to the heartwarming feeling of home and the people that make us feel like we belong. This one gets bonus points for mention of "hot and heavy, pumpkin pie."

Thankful

You can't go wrong with Celine Dion's soulful melodies, and this one takes special meaning on Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving Song

Mary Chapin Carpenter truly captures the essence of the holiday in this festive tune all about family, home, and thankfulness.

Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie

This catchy tune celebrates a necessary element of Thanksgiving: pie! Blast this medley of soul, R&B, and pop as you dig into a plate of that flaky, sugary, deliciousness.

We Are Family

"We are family, get up everybody and sing!" You and your loved ones will have this popular tune stuck in your head all day thanks to Sister Sledge.

Autumn Leaves

Battling Thanksgiving stress? Nat King Cole's soothing voice in this seasonal tune is the perfect remedy.

Thanksgiving Prayer

Joanne Cash's sweet rendition of her brother's "Thanksgiving Prayer" will remind you to show gratitude to the simple things this holiday.

If I Ain't Got You

Alicia Keys' pop anthem about treasuring people rather than material items is a heartwarming classic. Plus, the catchy melody will have you singing along.

Feeling Good

Thanksgiving is all about feeling good, so what song is better than Nina Simone's cult-classic literally called "Feeling Good"?

Biscuits

"Mind your own biscuits and life will be gravy," Kasey Musgraves sings. This Thanksgiving food-themed song is just what you need for Turkey Day.

Thankful For

Sing along with Adam Sanders as he lists what he's thankful for. Maybe it will inspire you and your loved ones to share your gratitude.

Lovely Day

Make Thanksgiving a lovely day with Bill Withers' soulful, happy rhythm.

A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

George Winston's piano ballad is the perfect background music for your gathering of gratitude. His renditions of your favorite Charlie Brown tunes will be sure to put a grin on your turkey-stuffed face.

Our House

Wholesome, catchy, and sentimental—"Our House" deserves a spot on your Thanksgiving playlist.

Let's Call The Whole Thing Off

Sweet potato or sweet potahto? Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong's joyful cover of "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off" gets a new meaning this holiday.

Celebration

Just like Kool & The Gang sings in their fan-favorite tune, "Celebrate good times, come on!" Celebrate food, family, and fun this Thanksgiving.

Let's Turkey Trot

Want to dance it out on Thanksgiving? Try jamming and jiving to "Let's Turkey Trot" by Little Eva.

Thank You For The Music

Thanksgiving is about gratitude in any form. This ABBA track is dedicated to music and performing—and it will have you swaying in no time.

Thanking The Good Lord

This country song pays tribute to the big man (or woman!) upstairs.

Turkey Chase

Bob Dylan's festive instrumental soundtrack will make excellent background music while you feast.

(Do The) Mashed Potatoes

Now your favorite Thanksgiving side dish can be food and a dance!

Be Thankful For What You Got

Wiliam DeVaugn reminds us to count our blessings and cherish what we have—a perfect lesson to keep in mind this November.

Young Pilgrims

You'll love the acoustic strumming on this tune by the Shins.

American Pie

'Tis the season for pie! Queue up this legendary track as you slice your festive treat.

The Thanksgiving Song

Can't get enough of Thanksgiving jokes? You'll love the former Saturday Night Live cast member's silly song about Turkey Day.

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