I was around 15 when I first encountered the long, narrow piece of paper known as the TURKEY TICKET. It was a Monday night, and I’m sure I brought my typical teenage attitude to the family room.
Fast forward thirteen years, and I’m happy to say I’ve matured a bit. That once-unassuming piece of paper is now one of my favorite November traditions.
I recall Mom distributing the tickets and explaining that they were our invitation to Thanksgiving dinner, given that our papers were filled with things we were grateful for. At first glance, the ticket seemed trivial—a tiny piece of paper. But as it unrolled, it revealed its full length—six feet of it.
Initially, listing what I was grateful for was easy: family, friends, favorite foods, and the simple truths I had learned. But as the month went on, I started to notice and appreciate blessings I had overlooked or taken for granted before.
Each year, I’m amazed by what I rediscover through this exercise. No matter what’s happening in my life or how I feel about it, I’m always struck by the evident goodness of God.
The Turkey Ticket is a wonderful tradition that could be celebrated any time of the year, but for us, it marks the start of the holiday season by reminding us of our true blessings.
Creating your own Turkey Ticket is simple and works well for families, children, or youth groups. Younger kids can draw pictures on the strip to represent what they’re thankful for. We use rolls of cash register paper from Amazon, cut each one to about six feet long, and then roll them up and tie them with a bow.
Check Out Our Turkey Ticket Process
MATERIALS
- Rolls of cash register paper (available on Amazon or at office supply stores)
- Scissors
- Tape or glue
- Markers, pens, or crayons (for writing or drawing)
- Ribbon or string (for tying the ticket)
- A bow (optional, for decoration)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Cut the Paper:
- Measure and cut the cash register paper into strips about six feet long. You can cut several strips if you’re making multiple tickets.
- Prepare the Tickets:
- Roll each strip of paper into a tight roll. Secure it with tape or glue to keep it rolled up.
- Decorate and Personalize:
- Unroll the paper slightly to allow space for writing. Use markers, pens, or crayons to write or draw on the strip what you’re grateful for. Encourage everyone participating to fill their ticket with their personal expressions of gratitude.
- Tie the Ticket:
- Once decorated, roll the paper back up and secure it with a ribbon or string. You can also add a bow for a decorative touch.
- Display or Share:
- Place the Turkey Tickets in a visible spot in your home to remind everyone of their blessings. Alternatively, distribute them to family members, friends, or participants in a group activity.
TIPS
- Involve Kids: Have younger children draw pictures of what they’re thankful for on their strips.
- Regular Updates: Add to the Turkey Ticket throughout the month as you discover new things to be grateful for.
- Special Occasions: Use the Turkey Ticket for other occasions like family gatherings or class activities to promote gratitude.
This simple activity can be a meaningful tradition to reflect on and celebrate the many blessings in your life.
