About this puzzle
An easy Thanksgiving crossword in large print, built around the dinner table: the turkey, the trimmings, the parade and the pie. Every answer is a word most people have known since childhood.
On paper the squares are about .61 inches wide, roomy enough for shaky handwriting or a thick marker. The PDF is laid out like a large print puzzle book: the 12×12 grid has page one to itself, the 11 clues are printed at 18 point on page two, and the answer key is on page three. Lay the first two pages side by side and solve without squinting.
Did you know?
- The first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was held in New York in 1924.
- Sarah Josepha Hale, the magazine editor who wrote “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” campaigned for years for a national Thanksgiving Day.
- The Detroit Lions have hosted a football game on Thanksgiving since 1934.
Talk about it
- Who carved the turkey in your family, and did anyone else ever get a turn?
- What was always served at your Thanksgiving table that other families might find unusual?
- Did you ever travel far to get home for the holiday? How did you get there?
- Who was the best pie maker you have ever known?
Activity tip
Solve the puzzle in the week before Thanksgiving, then ask each person to read out one answer and say what it makes them think of. TURKEY and PARADE usually bring the best stories.
Questions
Is this a good activity for a Thanksgiving gathering?
Yes. Grandparents and grandchildren can solve it side by side: the clues are simple enough for children who read well and roomy enough for older eyes.
Can I print copies for a care home or activity group?
Yes, free for personal, classroom and non-commercial group use. The word bank PDF lists all 11 answers for an easier start.