Thanksgiving in Friends is a tradition as sacred as Monica’s wedding china—when it’s not smashed, of course. For over 10 seasons, the gang turned Turkey Day into a chaotic, hilarious celebration of all the reasons we love (and maybe tolerate) our closest friends. From uninvited sisters to football rivalries, these episodes have become as iconic as Joey’s Thanksgiving pants.
But let’s face it, not all Friendsgivings were created equal. Some episodes soared with unforgettable one-liners, while others relied on a slightly undercooked plot. So, we’ve ranked every Friends Thanksgiving episode from 'meh, pass the gravy' to absolute comedy gold. And yes, we’re starting with Chandler in a box.
The One With Chandler in a Box
Credit: IMDb
Chandler sitting in a literal box as penance for betraying Joey is peak early-90s sitcom absurdity. While the idea is funny, the humor doesn’t quite carry the episode. Monica’s awkward flirtation with Richard’s son adds some cringe-worthy moments, but the overall vibe feels a little under-seasoned for Thanksgiving.
The One With the List
Credit: IMDb
Thanksgiving barely gets a nod here, but the emotional stakes are high with Ross trying (and failing) to pick between Rachel and Julie. The infamous pros and cons list adds tension, but let’s be honest, it’s not the heartwarming holiday content you’re craving. At least it sets up the Ross-and-Rachel rollercoaster.
The One Where Chandler Doesn’t Like Dogs
Credit: IMDb
Chandler’s irrational fear of Clunkers, the secretly stashed dog, delivers some laughs, but the episode leans heavily on this one gag. The rest of the story feels like filler, and compared to other Thanksgiving gems, it doesn’t quite earn a place at the grown-ups' table.
The One With Rachel’s Other Sister
Credit: IMDb
Amy (Christina Applegate) is a walking chaos bomb in this episode, stirring up drama with her tactless remarks and breaking Monica’s precious wedding china. Joey’s Days of Our Lives mix-up adds some slapstick comedy, but the real winner here is Amy’s unfiltered, outrageous personality clashing with everyone else.
The One Where the Underdog Gets Away
Credit: IMDb
As the first Thanksgiving episode, this one sets the stage for all the dysfunctional holidays to come. Everyone’s plans fall apart, forcing them to share a meal together for the first time. It’s more sentimental than laugh-out-loud funny, but it lays the groundwork for future chaos.
The One With the Football
Credit: IMDb
Nothing says Thanksgiving like a backyard football game turning into a full-blown Geller sibling rivalry. From the ridiculousness of the "Geller Cup" to the boys’ hopeless flirting, this episode captures the absurdity of family traditions while delivering one of the funniest group dynamics.
The One With the Rumor
Credit: IMDb
Brad Pitt’s cameo as Will, Monica’s high school buddy with a deep hatred for Rachel, is a standout moment. The “I Hate Rachel” club reveal and the high school drama it drags up make this episode a feast of awkward humor. Plus, Joey trying to eat an entire turkey? Iconic.
The One With the Late Thanksgiving
Credit: IMDb
Monica’s over-the-top perfectionism takes center stage as the gang arrives late to her meticulously planned dinner. Joey’s head getting stuck in the door and the dramatic crash into the Thanksgiving spread are slapstick gold. But the heartfelt twist at the end makes this one a keeper.
The One With All the Thanksgivings
Credit: IMDb
Flashback episodes can be hit or miss, but this one nails it with throwbacks to Chandler’s Flock of Seagulls hair and Monica’s infamous turkey-head moment. It’s a perfect mix of hilarity and heart, especially when Chandler accidentally tells Monica he loves her. Nostalgia never tasted so good.
The One Where Ross Got High
Credit: IMDb
The ultimate Friends Thanksgiving episode has it all: Ross and Monica airing their childhood grievances, Joey being unapologetically himself, and Rachel’s hilariously disgusting trifle. Add in Phoebe’s Jacques Cousteau obsession and the Geller parents’ disbelief over the chaos, and you’ve got an unbeatable classic.
