When was the first thanksgiving nfl game? When was the first thanksgiving nfl game? The first Thanksgiving Day NFL game was played on November 28, 1934 . The Detroit Lions, then known as the Portsmouth Spartans, hosted the Chicago Bears. This tradition of playing football on Thanksgiving has continued, making it a beloved part of the holiday season. The Detroit Lions have a long-standing tradition of playing on Thanksgiving, dating back to 1934. In 1966, the Dallas Cowboys joined the Thanksgiving Day football tradition. The NFL's Thanksgiving Day games have become a staple of American football, providing fans with exciting matchups and memorable moments.