The turkey's in the oven, the football's on, and somebody just found a deck of cards. For many American families, Thanksgiving isn't complete without a game at the table.
Here are seven easy card games to play this Thanksgiving, for every age and every size of group, plus a look at the casino classics that grew out of these family favourites.
7 Card Games to Play This Thanksgiving
| Game | Players | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Spades | 4 (two teams) | Competitive cousins |
| Rummy | 2–6 | Mixed ages |
| Crazy Eights | 2–7 | Kids and grandparents together |
| Hearts | 4 | Strategic players |
| Go Fish | 2–6 | Young kids |
| Speed | 2 | Fast, head-to-head fun |
| Blackjack (for fun) | 2+ | A taste of the casino, no money needed |
1. Spades
A trick-taking team game with a famously loyal following. Partners bid how many tricks they'll win, and spades always beat other suits. Expect trash talk.
2. Rummy
Collect sets (three of a kind) and runs (consecutive cards of the same suit). It's simple enough for kids to learn and deep enough for adults to enjoy.
3. Crazy Eights
Match the top card by number or suit; eights are wild. It's the perfect game for a table where ages range from seven to seventy.
4. Hearts
Avoid taking hearts, and absolutely avoid the queen of spades. A great choice for four players who like to plan ahead.
5. Go Fish
The classic first card game. Ask for cards, collect sets of four, and keep the little ones busy while dinner cooks.
6. Speed
Two players race to play cards in sequence at the same time. Loud, fast and over in minutes.
7. Blackjack, for fun
Get closest to 21 without going over. Use chips from a board game, or toothpicks, instead of money, and everyone can join in.
Tips for a Great Game Table
- Pick the game for the youngest player if kids are joining in.
- Keep family games money-free. Play for bragging rights, the last slice of pie, or dish duty.
- Have a second deck ready. Double-deck games make room for bigger families.
- Time it around the football. Halftime is the perfect length for a quick round. Here's the NFL Thanksgiving 2026 schedule.
From the Kitchen Table to the Casino
Many casino favourites share roots with family card games. Blackjack grew from older games of "twenty-one", and video poker takes the hand rankings everyone learns at poker night and turns them into a solo game.
For adults 21 and over who enjoy those classics, Platinum Reels offers:
- Blackjack and table games in the table games lobby
- Video poker, including Jacks or Better. Learn it with our beginner's strategy chart
- Live dealer tables with real dealers streamed in real time, in the live dealer lobby
Thinking of playing this holiday weekend? The Thursday-to-Sunday High Roller Weekend offer covers all of Thanksgiving weekend. Set your limits first with our casino budget guide.
FAQ
What is a good card game for a big family?
Crazy Eights and Rummy work well for mixed ages and larger groups, especially with two decks.
What card games can young kids play at Thanksgiving?
Go Fish and Crazy Eights are easy to learn and quick to play.
Can you play blackjack without money?
Yes. Use board-game chips, toothpicks or counters. It's just as fun, and safe for all ages.
Where can adults play casino card games online?
At Platinum Reels, adults 21 and over can play blackjack, video poker and live dealer games.
Happy Thanksgiving
Shuffle up, deal in and enjoy the day. From all of us at Platinum Reels, Happy Thanksgiving.
Casino games are for players 21 or older. Please play responsibly.
