Holidays & work calendar

Thanksgiving Messages for Employees

Thanksgiving is built for gratitude, which makes it a natural moment for managers to thank their teams. A short message before the long weekend sets a warm tone.

Make it specific to your team’s year, and encourage people to actually switch off.

How to write it

  • Express gratitude for specific things this year.
  • Encourage people to fully switch off over the holiday.
  • Keep it inclusive for colleagues outside the US.

From a manager

  • This Thanksgiving, I’m grateful for a team that shows up for each other. Enjoy the long weekend.

  • Happy Thanksgiving! Thank you for your hard work and kindness this year.

  • I’m thankful for every one of you. Please switch off and enjoy time with your loved ones.

  • Grateful for your dedication this year. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

  • Happy Thanksgiving — thank you for making this team what it is.

From leadership

  • This Thanksgiving, we’re grateful for the people who make our company great — you.

  • Thank you for everything you’ve given this year. Happy Thanksgiving.

  • Wishing you and your families a joyful Thanksgiving.

  • Our success is built on your work. We’re thankful for you.

Between coworkers

  • Happy Thanksgiving! Thankful for a coworker like you.

  • Grateful for your help this year — enjoy the turkey!

  • Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy the food, the rest, and the nap.

  • Thankful for our coffee breaks and your patience with me. Happy Thanksgiving!

Lighthearted

  • Happy Thanksgiving! Save me some pie.

  • Wishing you a Thanksgiving with more stuffing than status updates.

  • Happy Thanksgiving! Remember: elastic waistbands are business casual this week.

  • Gobble gobble — enjoy the long weekend!

What to avoid

  • Forgetting colleagues in other countries — add a note for them too.

Organising the whole card? Our holiday card guide covers timing and who to invite.