You've Been Turkey'd! A Fun Thanksgiving Neighborhood Tradition

As autumn leaves blanket our yards and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, there's a heartwarming tradition that can bring your community together before the Thanksgiving feast. Move over "You've Been Booed" - it's time for "You've Been Turkey'd"!

You can download You’ve Been Turkey’d done-for you resources here for free.

What is "Turkey-ing"?

"Turkey-ing" is a delightful neighborhood game that spreads gratitude and thanksgiving spirit throughout your community. Similar to Halloween's "You've Been Booed," this activity involves secretly leaving Thanksgiving-themed treats and decorations on your neighbors' doorsteps, creating a chain of giving that ripples through the neighborhood.

How to Play "You've Been Turkey'd"

1. Create Your Turkey Kit

Start by assembling a festive package that might include:

• Thanksgiving-themed decorations (mini pumpkins, paper turkeys, fall leaves)

• Autumn-scented candles

• Thanksgiving cookie cutters

• Fall-themed kitchen towels

• Seasonal candy or treats

• Gratitude journal or thankfulness cards

• Apple cider packets or autumn tea

• Small craft supplies for Thanksgiving activities

2. Write Your Turkey Note

Include a friendly note explaining the game. Here's a sample verse:

"Gobble gobble, knock knock!
You've been Turkey'd, what a shock!
Now it's your turn to spread the fun,
Turkey two neighbors before day is done!
Within three days, please make your way,
To share this blessing without delay.
Display this sign upon your door,
So you won't get Turkey'd anymore!"

3. Make the Delivery

Choose your timing wisely - perhaps early evening when families are home but not yet settled in for dinner. Place your Turkey Kit on the doorstep, ring the bell, and dash away! The mystery adds to the excitement.

4. Keep the Chain Going

Include these essential items in your kit:

• "We've Been Turkey'd!" door sign

• Instructions for continuing the tradition

• List of suggested items for Turkey Kits

• Template for the Turkey note

You can download You’ve Been Turkey’d done-for you resources here for free.

Tips for Successful Turkey-ing

1. Start Early: Begin in early November to give the game time to spread before Thanksgiving.

2. Keep it Simple: Focus on small, meaningful items rather than expensive gifts.

3. Consider Food Allergies: When including edible treats, ensure they're sealed and labeled.

4. Spread Gratitude: Include gratitude-focused activities or cards to emphasize the thanksgiving spirit.

5. Be Inclusive: Consider neighbors who might celebrate different traditions and include general autumn-themed items.

Why Turkey-ing Works

This tradition does more than just spread treats - it builds community bonds and creates lasting memories. It:

• Encourages neighborly connections

• Teaches children about giving

• Spreads joy during the season of gratitude

• Creates excitement leading up to Thanksgiving

• Helps combat pre-holiday stress with fun surprises

Making it Meaningful

While Halloween's "Booing" focuses on spooky fun, Turkey-ing can emphasize gratitude and giving. Consider adding elements that promote thankfulness:

• Include blank "gratitude cards" for families to fill out

• Add small journals for recording daily thankfulness

• Include conversation starter cards about gratitude

• Share simple recipes for Thanksgiving treats

You can download You’ve Been Turkey’d done-for you resources here for free.

Conclusion

"You've Been Turkey'd" offers a wonderful opportunity to transform your neighborhood into a community of gratitude and giving before Thanksgiving. It's more than just a game - it's a chance to create connections, spread joy, and remind everyone what the season is truly about.

So why not start this heartwarming tradition in your neighborhood this year? You might be amazed at how quickly it catches on and how it transforms your community's spirit of thanksgiving.

Remember, the true gift isn't in the treats or decorations - it's in the connections we build and the gratitude we share. Happy Turkey-ing!

Pro Tips:

• Keep a list of houses displaying "We've Been Turkey'd!" signs to avoid double-gifting

• Consider coordinating with a few neighbors to kick-start the tradition in different areas

• Take photos of your Turkey Kits to share on social media and inspire others

• Save supplies during post-Halloween sales for next year's Turkey Kits