The weeks leading up to Thanksgiving and the holiday weekend itself mark the perfect time to share a Broadway show with your loved ones—either before or after you've stuffed yourself with turkey, mashed potatoes, the inevitable green bean casserole, and a variety of desserts.
There’s something magical about sitting in one of Broadway's majestic houses with family members—those you've known since birth and/or the family of friends you've acquired over the years. As the lights dim, there is nothing quite like the anticipation of being whisked away into a different world. The laughter, the gasps, the spectacular performances, the thrilling vocals, the dazzling scenery and costumes, the enthusiastic applause, and more all create memories that will last a lifetime for you and your loved ones.
Below are five current family-friendly Broadway shows that will surely bring a sense of wonder and warmth to your holiday adventures. Get ready for a treat that's both entertaining and meaningful.
(Some shows may run a modified schedule during the week of Thanksgiving, so check Playbill's schedule of Thanksgiving week performances to make sure the show you want to see is running on the day you want to see it.)
Aladdin
Aladdin may just be the perfect musical to introduce your kids to the wonder of Broadway. For those who have grown up watching the animated Disney classic, they will certainly revel in seeing their favorite characters come alive on stage at the New Amsterdam Theatre. Full of color, wonderful music, and plenty of spectacle, the story follows golden-hearted street-rat Aladdin, who meets a magical Genie and embarks on an adventure to win the heart of Princess Jasmine. Neither you nor your family will be able to resist the show-stopping "Friend Like Me," and when Aladdin and Jasmine fly through the air on a magic carpet singing the irresistible "A Whole New World." You will undoubtedly see broad, contented smiles on the faces of all of your loved ones. Shining, shimmering, and splendid, indeed.
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The Lion King
There is nothing quite like the opening sequence of Disney's The Lion King, which has been entertaining Broadway audiences for nearly 30 years. When Julie Taymor's breathtaking, imaginative creations, both large and small, proceed down the aisles of the theatre and make their way to the stage to the sound of "Circle of Life," it is Broadway magic of the highest caliber. As Rafiki presents the newborn Simba to the other animals, audiences can only sit back and revel in the artistry they have just witnessed. And that's only the first scene! While very young children may be mesmerized by the animals and visual design, older kids and their parents will also be moved by the themes of friendship and family. There's a reason why the Tony Award-winning musical has been going strong for almost three decades. If you need a great show for kids from one to 92, get thee to the Minskoff!
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Wicked
Last Thanksgiving, you and your family were dazzled by the first half of the Oscar-nominated Wicked film (the second part arrives this month), so don't miss the chance to see the long-running, record-breaking musical in person. As wonderful as the movie is, there's nothing quite like seeing Elphaba levitate and fly (and belt to the heavens) on stage at the Gershwin. It's one of the great Act One finales, and the nearly three-hour musical tells the entire tale of Elphaba and Glinda, from bubble-descending beginning to glorious surprise ending (no need to wait for the sequel!).
With a thrilling score by Stephen Schwartz—including the show-stopping "Defying Gravity" and "The Wizard and I" as well as the deliciously humorous "Popular"—the musical’s themes of friendship, identity, and traveling through life as an outsider can spark thoughtful conversations with your loved ones after the show. So go green this Thanksgiving—who cares if it's not Christmas time yet? It's always time to rejoicify!
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Rob Lake With Special Guests The Muppets
This one seems like a no-brainer! The Muppets on Broadway! How can you resist watching your children's faces light up as they see their favorite Muppet characters live and in person in the holiday engagement of Rob Lake Magic With Special Guests The Muppets? Plus, there's magic tricks too.
The limited run, scheduled through January 18, 2026, at the Broadhurst Theatre, features master illusionist Lake, who made a splash on TV's America's Got Talent in 2018 and has since toured the world with his magic act. And, on Broadway, he is joined by a host of furry friends, including Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, The Great Gonzo, Fozzie Bear, Rowlf the Dog—all, unbelievably, making their Broadway debuts. And, just because it's a limited engagement, don't count out these talented artists come awards season. Miss Piggy, always her humble self, says in her Playbill bio that she would like to be considered "in all Tony categories."
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Mamma Mia!
Mamma Mia!, currently back on Broadway at the Winter Garden Theatre, may not be quite right for the littlest theatergoers, but certainly tweens, teens, parents, and grandparents will revel in the feel-good music and high-energy dancing of the international hit. Set on a Greek island, the story follows bride-to-be Sophie, who secretly invites three men from her mother’s past to discover which one might be her father. All of these intriguing storylines unfold through the infectious hits of the pop group ABBA, including “Dancing Queen,” “Take a Chance on Me,” "The Winner Takes It All," and, of course, “Mamma Mia!” It's a celebration of girl power and family of all kinds, offering great music while spotlighting love, laughter, and togetherness. Parents can enjoy the nostalgia of the songs while kids are swept up in the energy and joy of the performances. "Honey, Honey," it's not to be missed!
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Plus, show off your love for Broadway by purchasing Playbill stickers. We have a wide range of stickers from various shows past and present, including some for popular revivals such as ART, Chicago, and more. Buy 10 or more single stickers and get two free stickers! Visit PlaybillStore.com.
