A Blast from the Past: 1980's Thanksgiving Cartoon Specials

Thanksgiving is almost here —a time for feasting, family feuds over who gets the last slice of pie, and those unforgettable Thanksgiving cartoon specials that once graced our TV screens. Here's a nostalgic look back at the gems from the 1980s that made us feel warm, fuzzy, and sometimes downright silly.

Charlie Brown and the Rest of the Peanuts Gang

Kicking things off, we can't forget A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973). Yes, it’s a bit of a cheat since it debuted in the '70s, but this iconic special reigned supreme throughout the '80s. Watching Charlie Brown and his gang scramble to put together a Thanksgiving meal of popcorn and toast was oddly comforting. The inexplicable nature of Snoopy’s culinary skills was balanced only by Peppermint Patty’s unforgettable freak-out over the nontraditional spread. This one was a perennial favorite, right alongside our Saturday morning cartoon lineup.

Garfield’s Thanksgiving (1989)

Garfield the cat had a way of capturing our hearts with his sarcastic wit and insatiable appetite. Garfield’s Thanksgiving was a treat, featuring our favorite lasagna-loving feline in a holiday special where he’s told to go on a diet by Jon’s veterinarian crush, Dr. Liz. Between Garfield’s hilarious attempts to avoid diet restrictions and Jon’s awkward attempts to impress Dr. Liz, it’s a classic example of cartoon comedy gold. Who knew a fat cat could bring so much festive cheer?

The Care Bears’ Thanksgiving

For those who preferred a dose of sweetness with their turkey and stuffing, The Care Bears were there to deliver. Their Thanksgiving special was a cornucopia of fuzzy, feel-good moments as the Bears worked together to spread gratitude and cheer. Not exactly the high-octane adventure some of us toy collectors might crave, but there’s no denying it left a heartwarming impression that lasted longer than the leftovers.

The Smurfs’ Thanksgiving

Let’s not forget those tiny blue creatures! In The Smurfs’ Thanksgiving, our pint-sized pals faced their usual mix of misadventures, villainous plots, and heartwarming resolutions. Whether Gargamel was scheming to ruin their festivities or the Smurfs were working tirelessly to ensure a bountiful harvest, it’s safe to say they were blue for joy during Turkey Day.

Wrapping It Up

Thanksgiving might be synonymous with family and food, but for those of us toy collectors who grew up in the '80s, it’s also about fond memories of these animated specials. They may be retro now, but the charm and laughs they brought us are timeless. So this year, after the turkey coma hits, why not revisit these nostalgic nuggets? Dust off that VHS or find a digital stream and let’s relive the golden days when our biggest worry was if the toast would burn or if the lasagna supply was endless.

Happy Thanksgiving, and may your holiday be filled with as much joy as these classics brought to our childhoods!