30 “Happy Thanksgiving” messages to employees that inspire gratitude

Thanksgiving is more than turkey, to-do lists, and the annual pumpkin vs. pecan pie debate (we won’t take sides). For employers, it’s a timely reminder to pause, reflect, and recognize the people who make your organization stronger — day in and day out. A thoughtful message of appreciation, delivered with sincerity and a touch of style, can make employees feel seen, valued, and more connected to your company culture.

In this guide, you’ll find 30 Thanksgiving messages designed to help you express gratitude in a way that’s meaningful, human, and just the right amount of professional. Whether you’re crafting a quick Slack note, a handwritten card, or something that reflects your unique company culture, this collection has you covered. No templates, no name fields — just pure appreciation, ready to share.

Short appreciation messages for staff

If you’re looking for something short, sweet, and sincere — this section is your go-to. These messages are perfect for one-to-one notes or company-wide shoutouts when time is tight, but appreciation is high. Consider them snack-sized thanks: light on characters, full of meaning:

1. Happy Thanksgiving! Your hard work and positive attitude make a difference every day. Thank you for all you do!
2. Thank you for your dedication and passion. Wishing you a joyful Thanksgiving with family and friends!
3. We’re grateful for your hard work and commitment to our team’s success. Have a wonderful holiday!
4. Thanksgiving cheers to you! Your effort and enthusiasm inspire us all. Thank you!
5. Thank you for always going above and beyond. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
6. Wishing you a great Thanksgiving! Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and we appreciate you.
7. Happy Thanksgiving! Your contributions make our team stronger. Enjoy this special time!
8. Thank you for your hard work and positivity. Have a relaxing and joyful Thanksgiving!
9. Grateful for your commitment! Wishing you and your family a happy Thanksgiving.
10. Thank you for your constant support and drive. Have a beautiful Thanksgiving!

Professional and heartwarming wishes

These messages go a little deeper. They’re ideal for acknowledging standout effort, showing heartfelt appreciation, or simply taking a moment to reflect on someone’s impact. Whether you’re a leader addressing your team or a colleague celebrating a peer, these messages hit that sweet spot between warmth and professionalism:

11. This Thanksgiving, we want to recognize your hard work and dedication. Your efforts and positive attitude make a difference every day, and your contributions mean so much to our team’s success. Wishing you a restful holiday filled with joy and gratitude!
12. Happy Thanksgiving! Your passion, skills, and commitment have elevated our team to new heights. We are truly grateful for everything you bring to the table.
13. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our goals and values. Your dedication shines through in all you do. Wishing you a peaceful and happy Thanksgiving!
14. Happy Thanksgiving! Your impact on our team’s success has been tremendous. We hope this holiday brings you the rest and joy you truly deserve.
15. Your dedication and positivity have shaped our team’s journey in so many ways. We appreciate your energy and daily impact. Enjoy a Thanksgiving filled with warmth and happiness!
16. Grateful for your hard work! Your constant dedication makes a difference in our success. Wishing you a warm and fulfilling holiday with loved ones!
17. Happy Thanksgiving! Your creativity and vibrant energy light up our workplace, making every day more inspiring. Thank you for all you do.
18. Your leadership has been instrumental in helping us achieve our goals. We’re grateful to have your guidance and inspiration every day. May this Thanksgiving bring you relaxation and joy!
19. A Thanksgiving thank you to you! Your reliability and commitment form the pillars of our team’s success. We appreciate you deeply.
20. Happy Thanksgiving! Your passion and dedication inspire everyone around you. Wishing you a holiday filled with joy and quality time with loved ones.

Creative and engaging messaging ideas

Do you sometimes want your gratitude to have a bit more flavor? This batch of messages adds a fun twist to traditional thank-you notes. Think: lighthearted metaphors, playful comparisons, and a little seasonal charm. Perfect for culture-builders, recognition champions, or anyone trying to keep things fresh:

21. Happy Thanksgiving! Thank you for adding flavor and spice to our team, just like pumpkin pie adds to the holiday table. Your positive energy makes every day better.
22. This Thanksgiving, we’re grateful to have rockstars like you! Your determination is one of the key ingredients in our success. Here’s to a joyful holiday season!
23. Giving thanks for YOU this season! Your enthusiasm and commitment are the secret ingredients that keep our team thriving.
24. Happy Thanksgiving! Working with you is as satisfying as a big Thanksgiving feast. Thank you for all you do to support the team.
25. Here’s a Thanksgiving toast to you! Your hard work and contagious laughter fill our team’s plate with joy. Thank you for being such a valuable part of our success.
26. Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without recognizing you! Your dedication and skills make every project shine. We’re grateful for you.
27. You’re the gravy to our mashed potatoes! Your contributions hold everything together and make our team complete. Thank you!
28. Thanksgiving thanks go out to you! Your creativity and hard work are like the dessert everyone looks forward to — absolutely essential.
29. Cheers to you this Thanksgiving! Just like turkey, you’re an essential part of our team, bringing substance and heart to all we do.
30. Happy Thanksgiving! Your fresh ideas and perspectives add flavor to every project. Here’s to a joyful season and many more accomplishments together.

Give thanks beyond Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving may be the perfect moment to pause and say thanks — but recognition shouldn’t be a once-a-year tradition. The most successful organizations build cultures where appreciation happens regularly, not just seasonally. Because when employees feel seen and valued all year long, they’re more engaged, more motivated, and more likely to stick around.

With Achievers, you can turn one-time gratitude into a lasting habit. Our platform empowers leaders and peers to recognize the moments that matter — frequently, meaningfully, and in the flow of work. So, yes, say “thank you” this Thanksgiving. And then keep it going. Because giving thanks isn’t just a nice gesture — it’s a strategy.

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