Watch The Thanksgiving That Almost Wasn't

The Thanksgiving That Almost Wasn't is a charming animated television special from 1972 that takes viewers on a heartwarming journey through the history of Thanksgiving. Produced by Rankin/Bass Productions, the same team who brought viewers beloved holiday classics like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman, The Thanksgiving That Almost Wasn't follows a delightful cast of characters as they explore the origins of this uniquely American holiday and celebrate its many traditions.

Narrated by the legendary June Foray, the story begins with an elderly turkey named Uncle Limpy who has called a meeting of all the animals in the forest to discuss the impending threat of Thanksgiving. Fearing for their lives, the animals band together and decide to appeal to the gods for mercy. With the help of a wise owl named Ollie, they embark on a magical journey through time to meet the great leaders of the past and learn about the true significance of Thanksgiving.

Along the way, they encounter a variety of memorable characters, including a group of Native Americans who teach them about the origins of the holiday and the importance of sharing with others, as well as historical figures like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Franklin D. Roosevelt, who each played a role in shaping Thanksgiving into the beloved national holiday that it is today.

As the animals journey through time, they come to realize that Thanksgiving isn't just about the food and the festivities; it's about gratitude and togetherness, about coming together as a community and giving thanks for all the blessings we have. And they are inspired to return to their forest home and celebrate Thanksgiving in their own unique way, with a feast that brings together all the creatures of the forest in a spirit of love and friendship.

Kevin Cooper, who voices the character of Ollie the Owl, brings a whimsical and endearing quality to the story, while Marilyn Mayne brings a sense of gravitas to her portrayal of the sage and thoughtful Uncle Limpy. But it is the charismatic and beloved June Foray who truly steals the show, infusing the narration with a warmth and tenderness that captures the essence of Thanksgiving and the deep sense of gratitude we all feel during this special time of year.

The animation in The Thanksgiving That Almost Wasn't is truly a work of art, with its rich, vibrant colors and lush, painterly backgrounds evoking the beauty and majesty of the natural world. The characters are rendered with a charmingly retro style that harkens back to the classic cartoons of the 1960s and 1970s, and the attention to detail in each frame is truly remarkable.

Whether you are a longtime fan of Rankin/Bass Productions, or simply looking for a heartwarming story to share with your family during the Thanksgiving holiday, The Thanksgiving That Almost Wasn't is a delightful and moving tribute to the spirit of gratitude and togetherness that makes this holiday so special. So gather round and enjoy this timeless classic, and let its message of hope and love inspire you to give thanks for all the blessings in your life.