Hey, let’s talk about Thanksgiving! The season of full hearts and full tables. Between the meal prep, guests, and cozy chaos, it’s easy to get caught up in the routine. But this year, what if you added a few new traditions that make the day more memorable?

At Casamia Design & Build Co., we love helping Twin Cities families make their homes feel inviting (especially around the holidays). From small crafts to big smiles, here are five simple Thanksgiving traditions to start with your family this year.

1. Gratitude Hand Turkeys (with a Twist)

This one’s a classic, with a little modern update.

Activity: Trace hands to make colorful turkeys, and have each family member write five things they’re thankful for inside the feathers.

Twist: Hang them around your dining area or tape them to branches to create a “Gratitude Tree.”

Casamia Tip: Before dinner, have everyone share one thing aloud—it’s a great way to slow down and reflect.

2. DIY Centerpiece Everyone Can Help Create

Get everyone (especially kids) involved in the table décor.

What You’ll Need: Mini pumpkins, pinecones, leaves, candles, grab everything at Home Depot or a local craft store in Minneapolis.
Activity: Arrange your items into a centerpiece where each piece represents something your family is thankful for: health, laughter, or home.

Casamia Tip: Keep it natural. Using local pinecones, berries, and foliage adds a Minnesota touch that feels organic and personal.

3. The Tablecloth of Memories

Let your dinner table become a piece of family history.

Idea: Use a plain cloth or butcher paper as a writing surface.
Activity: Everyone writes or draws something they’re thankful for right on the tablecloth. Add doodles, handprints, or small notes.
Twist: Save and reuse it every Thanksgiving, it becomes a timeline of gratitude that grows with your family.

Casamia Tip: If you remodel your dining space, frame a section of the tablecloth from each year—it’s the perfect personal touch for a family gallery wall.

4. The Thankful Tree

An elegant, visual way to display gratitude.
What You’ll Need: A small branch in a vase or tabletop tree, plus leaf-shaped paper cutouts.
Activity: Each family member writes one thing they’re grateful for per leaf and hangs it on the tree leading up to dinner.
Twist: During dinner, each person pulls a random leaf to read aloud—it’s a lovely mix of fun and reflection.

Casamia Tip: Add fairy lights or ribbon for a soft, glowing accent to your fall décor.

5. The Candle of Gratitude

Simple, symbolic, and heartwarming.

Idea: Place a single candle in the center of the table.
Activity: Before lighting it, each family member shares something they’re thankful for.
Twist: Pass the candle around so everyone has a turn before it’s lit. You can also use different candle colors for each kind of gratitude: family, friends, home, or fun memories.

Casamia Tip: Choose warm, natural scents—like cedarwood, vanilla, or apple spice—to make your dining space feel even cozier.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence. Whether you’re tracing hands, lighting candles, or laughing around a full table, these small traditions help create lasting memories.

At Casamia Design & Build Co., we love helping Twin Cities families make their homes beautiful, meaningful, and ready for moments like these. Ready to create a home you’ll love gathering in? Book a free intro call with us here and let’s start building your story.