Thanksgiving Trivia Challenge: Fun Facts to Share Around the Table

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with friends and family, enjoy a delicious meal, and reflect on all we’re grateful for. But if you’re looking to spice up your dinner conversation, why not throw in some Thanksgiving trivia? Whether you're hosting or attending a dinner, this fun trivia challenge will make the holiday even more memorable!

Here are some interesting Thanksgiving facts that will impress your guests and make your celebration a little more fun. Ready for the challenge? Let’s dive into the Thanksgiving trivia!

1️⃣ What Year Was the First Thanksgiving?

A) 1492
B) 1621
C) 1776
D) 1800

Answer: B) 1621
The first Thanksgiving took place in 1621, when Pilgrims and Native Americans gathered at Plymouth, Massachusetts, to celebrate the harvest. It wasn’t an official holiday, but it set the foundation for the tradition we celebrate today.

2️⃣ How Many Days Did the First Thanksgiving Last?

A) 1 day
B) 3 days
C) 5 days
D) 7 days

Answer: B) 3 days
The first Thanksgiving was a three-day feast. It wasn’t just turkey on the menu, either! The feast included seafood, venison, corn, beans, squash, and various wild fruits.

3️⃣ What Is the Most Popular Thanksgiving Side Dish in the United States?

A) Mashed Potatoes
B) Green Bean Casserole
C) Stuffing
D) Cranberry Sauce

Answer: A) Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes take the top spot as the most beloved side dish on Thanksgiving tables across the country. Don’t forget the gravy!

4️⃣ What President Made Thanksgiving an Official National Holiday?

A) Abraham Lincoln
B) George Washington
C) Franklin D. Roosevelt
D) Thomas Jefferson

Answer: A) Abraham Lincoln
In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday, in the midst of the Civil War, to bring the country together. He set the date for the last Thursday in November.

5️⃣ What Is the Average Weight of a Thanksgiving Turkey in the U.S.?

A) 10-12 pounds
B) 15-17 pounds
C) 20-22 pounds
D) 25-30 pounds

Answer: B) 15-17 pounds
The average Thanksgiving turkey weighs between 15 and 17 pounds, providing enough for dinner and leftovers for the days to follow.

6️⃣ Which State Produces the Most Cranberries in the U.S.?

A) Massachusetts
B) Wisconsin
C) Michigan
D) Oregon

Answer: B) Wisconsin
Wisconsin is the leading producer of cranberries in the U.S., supplying over 60% of the nation’s cranberry crops. Cranberries are a key component of the Thanksgiving meal, from sauce to pies.

7️⃣ What Was the Main Beverage Consumed at the First Thanksgiving?

A) Beer
B) Wine
C) Water
D) Hard Cider

Answer: D) Hard Cider
At the first Thanksgiving, there was no coffee, soda, or sweet tea! Instead, the Pilgrims and Native Americans drank hard cider, which was much more common at the time.

8️⃣ How Many Turkeys Are Eaten on Thanksgiving in the U.S. Each Year?

A) 30 million
B) 46 million
C) 50 million
D) 60 million

Answer: B) 46 million
Americans consume an estimated 46 million turkeys each Thanksgiving! That’s a lot of turkey sandwiches for the days after!

9️⃣ Which Native American Tribe Celebrated the First Thanksgiving with the Pilgrims?

A) Wampanoag
B) Iroquois
C) Navajo
D) Cherokee

Answer: A) Wampanoag
The Wampanoag tribe was the group that helped the Pilgrims at the first Thanksgiving, sharing their knowledge of farming and hunting in the New World.

🔟 What Year Did Macy's Hold Its First Thanksgiving Parade?

A) 1924
B) 1930
C) 1945
D) 1950

Answer: A) 1924
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1924. It started as a small event but has since grown into a beloved tradition with massive floats, performers, and huge crowds.

Bonus Round: Thanksgiving Fun Fact!

Did you know?
The average American consumes over 4,500 calories during a traditional Thanksgiving meal, thanks to all the turkey, sides, and desserts!

How to Host a Thanksgiving Trivia Challenge

Want to make this Thanksgiving even more fun? Host a trivia challenge around the dinner table! Here’s how to get started:

1. Prepare Your Questions: Print or write out the trivia questions above, or make your own based on Thanksgiving history, food, and traditions.
2. Divide into Teams: Split your guests into teams, or make it an individual challenge. Keep score as you go!
3. Prizes: For extra fun, offer a small prize for the winning team, such as a festive treat or a Thanksgiving-themed gift.

Wrapping Up the Fun

We hope these Thanksgiving trivia questions add some excitement to your holiday celebration! Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal with loved ones, a trivia challenge is a perfect way to share laughs and learn something new.

If you’re looking for a new home in Central Washington to host next year’s holiday gatherings, the Alpine Group is here to help! Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance with buying or selling a home. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at the Alpine Group!