There’s something nostalgic about going to the movies, spending way too much on popcorn and drinks, and disconnecting from the world for a couple of hours. And with Thanksgiving being a big opening weekend for movies, watching a flick with the family is a fun way to spend some quality time together.
Once you’re filled to the brim with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and turkey, you’re in the perfect position to kick back and relax. The best way to do just that is to catch one of the newest movie releases either on your own couch or in the comfort of your local movie theater (seriously, have you sat in one of those recliners recently?!). Whatever your viewing preference may be, we’ve got a list of the best new movies to watch as a family over Thanksgiving weekend—in the theaters and to stream at home.
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New Movies to Watch in Theaters
The Cat in the Hat
Rated: PG
In theaters: November 6, 2026
Run time: 1h 35m
If your kids love Dr. Seuss’s rhyming books, you won’t want to miss out on this new adaptation. The Cat in the Hat is on a mission to help a pair of siblings adjust to their new town. Voiced by Bill Hader, join The Cat in the Hat in this fun (and imaginative) animated film.
Hexed
Rated: PG
In theaters: November 13, 2026
Run time: 1h 56m
In this Disney animated feature, an awkward teen and her type-A mother discover dormant magical powers and a hidden realm that turn their worlds upside down. A perfect family flick to see during Thanksgiving weekend!
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
Rated: PG-13
In theaters: November 20, 2026
Run time: 2h 30m
This newest flick of The Hunger Games franchise is an adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ latest book, Sunrise on the Reaping, which follows Haymitch Abernathy in the 50th Hunger Games (you may remember him as Katniss and Peeta’s mentor in the other books and films). Like the rest of The Hunger Games books and movies, this is a young adult series that is appropriate for tweens and teens. That being said, Haymitch’s story tackles heavy topics like grief and violence. Be sure to prescreen the trailer before watching with your kids.
Ebenezer
Rated: PG-13
In theaters: November 6, 2026
Run time: 1h 35m
Johnny Depp plays Ebenezer Scrooge in this new rendition of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three haunting spirits from the past, present, and future—facing regrets, past decisions, and learning the lesson of how not to be a Scrooge in life. It’s the perfect Christmas movie to watch after Thanksgiving to get in the festive spirit.
Focker-in-Law
Rated: PG-13
In theaters: November 25, 2026
Run time: 1h 43m
Meeting your significant other’s parents can be intimidating. And for Greg Focker, it was much worse in the millennial movie titled Meet the Parents. He had to prove that he was husband material, and it took a lot of convincing for his then-future father-in-law (and ex-CIA agent) to welcome him into the family. In the newest movie installment of Meet the Parents, Greg and his father-in-law are teaming up to prove that Greg’s future daughter-in-law (played by Ariana Grande) isn’t suitable to join this chaotic family dynamic (or is she?).
New Movies to Stream Over Thanksgiving Weekend
Steps
Rated: PG
Stream on Netflix: November 25, 2026
Run time: 1h 34m
While most of us know the storyline of Cinderella, Steps is bringing a new perspective by telling the story of her stepsisters, who are apparently not evil and maybe just a little misunderstood. And no need to venture out to the theater for this one because you can stream it right at home on Netflix.
Way of the Warrior Kid
Rated: PG-13
Stream on Apple TV: November 25, 2026
Run time: 1h 46m
Catch this family flick on Apple TV this Thanksgiving weekend, which is based on author Jocko Willink’s book-to-movie adaptation. A retired Navy SEAL becomes a mentor to his shy nephew named Marc. With his military training and principles, he helps Marc enter his high school years with confidence.
FAQs
What are the best new movies to watch with kids over Thanksgiving?
For toddlers and young kids, the best movies to watch are Hexed, Steps, and The Cat in the Hat. For Older kids and teens, I recommend The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping and Way of the Warrior Kid.
What new movies can families stream over Thanksgiving weekend?
New movies to stream over Thanksgiving weekend include Steps on Netflix and Way of the Warrior Kid on Apple TV.
Brett Nicole Hayden, Former Assistant Editor
As a former Assistant Editor, Brett worked with the editors of The Everymom on the content creation process by updating stories, sourcing images and graphics, and pitching and contributing her own articles. Her favorite topics to write about are culture, relationships, and living. She’s also a baby names and family movies expert!
Patty Schepel, Associate Editor
As the Associate Editor, Patty works with The Everymom’s team on pitches, creating original articles, updating existing content, photo sourcing, writing shopping product descriptions, editing freelance articles, and more. With Patty’s passion for writing, experience as a mother of two, and expertise as a pediatric nurse, she brings a thoughtful and informative perspective to The Everymom.
