33 EXCITING THINGS TO DO FOR THANKSGIVING WEEKEND
Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to gather with loved ones and celebrate gratitude.
In this blog post, I’m going to be sharing with you the 33 exciting things to do for this thanksgiving weekend.
Regardless of whether you’re looking to uphold cherished traditions or try something new, there are countless ways to make the most of this festive season.
Here are 33 exciting activities that will ensure your Thanksgiving weekend is memorable, fun, and filled with joy.
Exciting Things to do for Thanksgiving Weekend
1. Host a Thanksgiving Feast
Prepare a traditional Thanksgiving meal with turkey, stuffing, and all the fixings. Invite family and friends for a day of feasting and gratitude. Make it a potluck where each guest brings a dish to share, making the preparation more manageable and introducing everyone to a variety of homemade favorites.
2. Organize a Potluck
Encourage guests to bring their favorite dish, creating a diverse and delicious spread. This reduces the host’s burden and introduces everyone to new recipes. It’s also a great way to sample different culinary traditions and flavors.
3. Take a Scenic Hike
Enjoy the crisp autumn air and beautiful fall foliage by exploring local trails. It’s a great way to burn off those Thanksgiving calories and connect with nature. Consider bringing a thermos of hot cocoa or cider for a cozy treat.
- Warm autumnal layers
- Fully charged camera or phone and power bank for your gear
- High-energy festive snacks, like leftover pumpkin bread, cranberry-walnut muffins, or stuffing bites packed tightly in a container.
- Offline trail navigation map
- Thermos of a hot beverage
4. Participate in a Turkey Trot
Join a community fun run or walk to kick off the holiday with some exercise. Many Turkey Trots support local charities, making it a meaningful way to start the day. Plus, it’s a fun way to engage with the community and meet new people.
5. Volunteer at a Soup Kitchen
Spend time giving back by helping those in need. Volunteering can be a rewarding way to show gratitude and compassion. Many organizations are especially in need of help during the holiday season, so your efforts will be greatly appreciated.
6. Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Tune in to this iconic parade to enjoy the floats, bands, and performances from the comfort of your home. It’s a tradition that brings the excitement of New York City right to your living room.
7. Have a Movie Marathon
Create a cozy home theater experience with Thanksgiving-themed movies and classics. Don’t forget the popcorn! Some popular choices include “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” and “Home for the Holidays.”
8. Play Thanksgiving Games
Organize fun games like Thanksgiving bingo, trivia, or a scavenger hunt to entertain both kids and adults. These activities can keep everyone engaged and add an element of friendly competition.
9. Craft Thanksgiving Decorations
Get creative with DIY projects like making turkey centerpieces, leaf garlands, or personalized place cards. This can be a fun activity for the whole family and adds a personal touch to your holiday decor.
10. Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Extend the fall fun by visiting a pumpkin patch. Pick out some pumpkins for carving or decorating your home. Many pumpkin patches also offer hayrides, corn mazes, and other family-friendly activities.
11. Bake Seasonal Treats
Spend an afternoon baking pies, cookies, and other seasonal goodies. Share them with friends, family, or neighbors. Consider baking classics like pumpkin pie, apple pie, or experimenting with new recipes like cranberry bars or pecan tarts.
12. Host a Friendsgiving
Celebrate with friends by hosting a separate feast. It’s a wonderful way to show appreciation for your chosen family. Keep it casual with a buffet-style setup, and encourage guests to bring their favorite dish or drink.
13. Create a Gratitude Tree
Have everyone write down things they are thankful for on paper leaves and hang them on a tree or a wall display. This visual representation of gratitude can be a meaningful and decorative addition to your home.
14. Go Black Friday Shopping
Take advantage of holiday sales and start your Christmas shopping early. Just be prepared for crowds and lines. Alternatively, consider shopping online to avoid the hustle and still get great deals.
15. Relax with a Book
Take some time for yourself to unwind with a good book. Choose a cozy spot and enjoy a quiet escape. This can be especially enjoyable with a warm drink and a blanket.
16. Enjoy a Bonfire
Gather around a bonfire for s’mores, storytelling, and stargazing. It’s a perfect way to end a crisp autumn evening and can be a wonderful outdoor activity for all ages.
17. Plan a Football Viewing Party
Watch the big game with friends and family. Serve snacks and drinks to create a fun, game-day atmosphere. Even if you’re not a football fan, the camaraderie and excitement can be enjoyable.
18. Go on a Road Trip
If you have extra days off, consider taking a short road trip to explore nearby towns or attractions. Plan your route to include scenic stops, quaint eateries, and interesting landmarks.
19. Make a Thanksgiving Scrapbook
Collect photos, recipes, and memories from the holiday to create a scrapbook that you can cherish for years to come. This can be a fun project to work on together as a family and a great way to preserve memories.
20. Attend a Local Festival
Many communities host fall festivals or events during Thanksgiving weekend. Check out local listings for fun activities like craft fairs, holiday markets, and concerts.
21. Visit a Museum or Historical Site
Take advantage of the holiday to explore local museums or historical sites you haven’t visited yet. This can be a great educational outing for the whole family.
22. Host a Wine and Cheese Night
Invite friends over for an evening of wine tasting and cheese pairing. It’s a sophisticated way to unwind after Thanksgiving dinner and can be a fun way to try new flavors and combinations.
23. Have a Picnic
Pack up Thanksgiving leftovers and head to a nearby park for a relaxing picnic. Bring a blanket, some outdoor games, and enjoy the fresh air.
24. Do a Puzzle or Play Board Games
Engage in some friendly competition with family board games or puzzles. It’s a great indoor activity for all ages and can be a fun way to bond and spend quality time together.
25. Decorate for the Holidays
Get a head start on your holiday decorating. Put up lights, set up your tree, and transform your home into a festive wonderland. This can be a fun and exciting way to transition from Thanksgiving to the winter holiday season.
26. Try a New Recipe
Experiment with a new dish or cuisine. It could become a new Thanksgiving tradition! Whether it’s a new side dish, dessert, or even a unique way to cook the turkey, trying something new can add excitement to your holiday menu.
27. Write Thank You Notes
Take time to write thank-you notes to friends, family, and colleagues to express your appreciation. This small gesture can mean a lot and is a great way to spread gratitude beyond the holiday.
28. Take a Family Photo
Capture the moment with a family photo. It’s a great way to document the holiday and create lasting memories. Consider hiring a professional photographer or setting up a tripod for a DIY photo shoot.
29. Go Ice Skating
Visit a local ice rink for some festive, wintery fun. Many rinks have special holiday hours and events, making it a perfect activity to enjoy with family and friends.
30. Explore a New Hobby
Use the extra time off to start a new hobby or revisit an old one. Whether it’s knitting, painting, or gardening, it’s a perfect way to relax and indulge in something you enjoy.
31. Organize a Backyard Campout
Set up tents in the backyard for a fun, outdoor adventure without leaving home. Toast marshmallows, tell ghost stories, and enjoy the experience of camping under the stars.
32. Have a Karaoke Night
Set up a karaoke machine or use a karaoke app for a night of singing and laughter. This can be a hilarious and entertaining activity for all ages.
33. Plan a Spa Day
Treat yourself to a day of pampering with at-home spa treatments. Use face masks, soak in a bath, and unwind with some relaxation techniques. This can be a perfect way to decompress after the busyness of Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving Recipes to Try
From classic dishes to innovative twists, here are some delicious Thanksgiving recipes that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds.
1. Classic Roast Turkey
No Thanksgiving is complete without a perfectly roasted turkey. This classic recipe involves brining the turkey for extra juiciness and flavor, then roasting it to a golden brown perfection. Baste the turkey regularly and stuff it with aromatics like onions, garlic, and fresh herbs for a savory centerpiece.
2. Herb-Crusted Prime Rib
For a luxurious alternative to turkey, consider serving an herb-crusted prime rib. Rub the roast with a mixture of fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil, then roast it to your desired doneness. The result is a tender and flavorful main dish that pairs perfectly with traditional Thanksgiving sides.
3. Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash
For a vegetarian option, try stuffed acorn squash. Halve the squash and fill it with a mixture of quinoa, cranberries, pecans, and kale. Roast until the squash is tender and the filling is golden. This dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning.
4. Cranberry Orange Relish
Ditch the canned cranberry sauce and make a fresh cranberry orange relish instead. Combine fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a bit of sugar for a tart and sweet side dish that adds a burst of flavor to your Thanksgiving plate.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Upgrade your mashed potatoes with roasted garlic. Boil russet potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, cream, and roasted garlic for a rich and creamy side dish. Top with chives for an added pop of color and flavor.
6. Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Give the traditional green bean casserole a makeover by using fresh green beans and a homemade mushroom sauce. Top with crispy fried onions for that classic crunch and bake until bubbly.
7. Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel
Combine mashed sweet potatoes with brown sugar, butter, and spices, then top with a crunchy pecan streusel. Bake until golden brown for a sweet and savory side dish that’s sure to be a hit.
8. Homemade Dinner Rolls
Soft, buttery dinner rolls are a must-have for Thanksgiving. Make them from scratch and serve warm with honey butter or herbed butter for an irresistible addition to your meal.
9. Stuffing with Sausage and Apples
Enhance your stuffing by adding crumbled sausage, diced apples, and fresh herbs. This savory and slightly sweet stuffing pairs well with both turkey and prime rib.
10. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Maple Syrup
Roast Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon and a drizzle of maple syrup for a dish that’s both savory and sweet. This easy side dish will convert even the pickiest eaters into Brussels sprouts fans.
11. Pumpkin Soup
Start your meal with a warm and comforting pumpkin soup. Blend roasted pumpkin with onions, garlic, and vegetable broth, then season with nutmeg and cinnamon for a rich and creamy starter.
12. Pecan Pie
No Thanksgiving dessert table is complete without a pecan pie. Make a buttery crust and fill it with a mixture of pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, and eggs. Bake until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
13. Pumpkin Pie
A Thanksgiving classic, pumpkin pie is a must-have dessert. Use canned or fresh pumpkin puree and spice it up with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
14. Apple Pie
For a fruity dessert, bake an apple pie with a flaky crust and a spiced apple filling. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.
15. Cranberry Apple Crisp
Combine tart cranberries and sweet apples with a buttery oat topping for a delicious and easy-to-make dessert. Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
16. Cheesecake with Cranberry Topping
For a decadent dessert, bake a creamy cheesecake and top it with a tangy cranberry sauce. The combination of rich cheesecake and tart cranberries is a delightful end to your Thanksgiving feast.
17. Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie
Add a twist to traditional pecan pie by incorporating chocolate and bourbon into the filling. This rich and flavorful pie will be a hit with chocolate lovers.
These dishes will definitely make your holiday meal unforgettable.
Tips for Creating a Cozy Thanksgiving Atmosphere
1. Warm Lighting
Use candles, string lights, and lanterns for a soft, warm glow.
2. Seasonal Scents
Fill your home with fall fragrances like cinnamon, apple, and pumpkin spice.
3. Cozy Textiles
Add throw blankets, pillows, and table linens in autumnal colors and textures.
4. Natural Elements
Decorate with pumpkins, gourds, pinecones, and dried flowers.
5. Inviting Table Setting
Use a tablecloth, cloth napkins, and seasonal centerpieces.
6. Comfortable Seating
Ensure chairs and sofas are cushioned and cozy.
7. Ambient Music
Play soft, instrumental or acoustic music in the background.
8. Fireplace Ambiance
Light a fire or use a digital fireplace video.
9. Hot Beverage Station
Offer coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and cider with various add-ins.
10. Thoughtful Details
Provide extra blankets, cozy socks, and personal touches like family photos.
11. Personal Touches
Share a toast or words of gratitude to set a heartfelt tone.
Conclusion
With these 33 exciting things to do for Thanksgiving weekend, delicious recipes to impress your guests, and tips to create a cozy atmosphere, you’ll have everything you need to make this holiday truly special.
Here’s to a Thanksgiving filled with joy, love, and unforgettable moments.
