Carter Scott ‘26, Entertainment Editor
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving first aired on Nov. 20, 1973. After its release, the movie became a staple for family entertainment during the holiday. Created by Charles Schulz and directed by Bill Melendez and Phil Roman, the 25 minute film was created to spread positivity and relay to audiences the idea of generosity, and the special excels in showing what gratitude, togetherness, and appreciation can look like between not only friends, but family as well.
The plot follows Charlie Brown and his friends as they attempt to create their very own Thanksgiving feast. As Brown and his friends try to create the perfect Thanksgiving meal, they soon realize that is not a possibility. Instead of a traditional Thanksgiving feast, they resort to jelly beans, popcorn, pretzels, and toast. When one of the characters, Peppermint Patty, complained about the meal, she was met with Marcie, another character within the story, telling her that she should be grateful for what they have. Later, Patty apologized for what she said. This encourages those viewing the special to think about what they have in their life, and that sometimes things are not always going to be perfect, and that is okay.
Junior Lucie Harvey, a Charlie Brown enthusiast, said “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving should be played all throughout November. The film’s album should be played in its entirety before you listen to any Christmas music.”A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is simple yet meaningful, and still finds its way onto televisions for families to sit and watch together to this day. The National Public Radio said, “The takeaway from this Peanuts Thanksgiving should be that we’re learning how to make room at the table for everyone.” The cultural impact this film has had on promoting inclusivity has not only shaped people’s opinions, but has led to the conclusion that whoever you are, family, or not, Thanksgiving is not just about the food but is about what you have and the people with whom you can celebrate with. Over 50 years after its debut, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving remains a holiday favorite and reminds audiences all around the world to think about, and be grateful, for what they have in the moment instead of thinking about what they could have.
Lyon Life 