California is the largest producer of turkey in the U.S., supplying nearly 20% of the nation’s Thanksgiving birds.
Thanksgiving in California is a vibrant celebration that reflects the state’s diverse culture and culinary traditions.
It is famous for its beautiful autumn weather and stunning landscapes that provides a picturesque backdrop for this cherished holiday.
Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings, feasting, and giving thanks from the beaches of San Diego to the vineyards of Napa Valley.
Thanksgiving is celebrated with family-oriented activities, such as parades, community events, and outdoor gatherings by locals and tourists.
Many Californians enjoy the tradition of “Friendsgiving,” where friends come together to share a meal, often with a laid-back California flair.
The celebration usually includes a lavish feast featuring roast turkey, stuffing, and gravy, but with a twist of local flavors—think pumpkin soup, cranberry salsa, and avocado salad.
Gifts are not a major part of top things to do in California during Thanksgiving 2024; however, it’s common to bring a dish to share or a bottle of local wine.
Many also participate in “Giving Tuesday” following Thanksgiving, where they contribute to local charities, embodying the spirit of gratitude and giving back.
Whether you’re wandering through a local farmers’ market or enjoying a beach bonfire, Thanksgiving in California is all about adorning community, delicious food, and the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Do you want to know the top California cities to be in during Thanksgiving? Get ready!
1) Plan your holidays with Anaheim
Anaheim is all said to welcome tourists for 2024’s Thanksgiving celebrations that promises a festive mix of activities, perfect for families and individuals.
One of the standout events is Knott’s Merry Farm, starting November 22, 2024, through January 5, 2025.
It transforms Knott’s Berry Farm into a winter wonderland with Charlie Brown and Snoopy leading the holiday festivities, including a Christmas Crafters Village, shows, and seasonal treats.
Day passes start around $69 for adults, with options for discounts and season passes.
Disneyland Resort also kicks off its holiday magic in early November. The entire park is dressed in dazzling lights and festive decorations, with the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle as a focal point.
Visitors can enjoy special parades, fireworks, and seasonal treats. A park pass, starting at $124 per day, is required. For a cultural spin, Disney California Adventure adds a vibrant holiday experience with ¡Viva Navidad!, blending Mexican and Brazilian holiday traditions.
If you’re looking for more traditional celebrations, check out the Anaheim Nutcracker Tree Lighting & Holiday Village which features a holiday shopping bazaar, live entertainment, and a magical tree lighting ceremony.
Catch the Anaheim Ducks in action at the Honda Center for a high-energy hockey game along with a more relaxed option.
These events ensure that you’ll have plenty of destinations to visit on Thanksgiving if you are in California.
Keep in mind, early booking for passes and event tickets is recommended to secure the best deals and availability.
2) Enjoy festivities of San Jose
San Jose promises a variety of exciting events in California’s which makes this state a must-visit spot on Thanksgiving this 2024. One of the highlights is the Silver Stick 2024 Mitey Mite & Mini-Mite Showdown from November 29th to December 1st.
It will be held at Sharks Ice and this tournament will feature competitive youth hockey games and an exciting, family-friendly event.
Teams will participate in a 9-game round robin format, with championship rounds on December 1st. Budget-wise, a team entry costs $1,400, but as a spectator, you can enjoy the matches for free. Parking is also available on-site.
The SJMADE Holiday Fair runs from November 29-30 at the Santa Clara Convention Center which is a perfect place for those seeking holiday markets.
You’ll find over 250 local makers that have everything from handcrafted gifts to unique culinary delights. Admission is free, and it’s a fantastic spot for holiday shopping and getting into the festive spirit.
If you’re interested in more outdoor adventures, Christmas in the Park opens in late November that transforms San Jose weather into a magical winter wonderland.
The park is filled with decorated trees, festive displays, and Santa visits. Entry is free, though there are ticketed activities like ice skating and the rentals start around $18.
These events are all reasonably affordable, with most being free to attend, though activities like ice skating and tournaments may have additional costs.
3) Gather around Los Angeles
Thanksgiving in Los Angeles is packed with vibrant events to get you into the holiday spirit. Whether you’re looking to kick off your festivities with a bit of fitness or simply marvel at dazzling lights, L.A. has something for everyone!
Start your day at the Turkey Trot Los Angeles, a fun and energetic way to burn off those holiday calories.
Choose between a 5K, 10K, or the 1K “Widdle Wobble” for kids under 10. Costumes are encouraged, and the race supports a charitable cause. Entry fees range from $35 to $65 depending on the event you sign up for.
For car enthusiasts, the Los Angeles Auto Show runs from Nov 22 to Dec 1, 2024. This spectacular display features the latest automotive innovations and a chance to test drive vehicles, including electric models. Tickets start at $20 which makes it a must-see for gearheads.
Feel like enjoying the winter vibes? Head to Pershing Square’s Holiday Ice Rink (Nov 21, 2024 – Jan 12, 2025).
Even though it’s sunny in L.A., you can glide around an outdoor rink surrounded by city skyscrapers whose admission is $20, including skate rentals.
If you’re into magical lights, visit the Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens (Nov 16, 2024 – Jan 5, 2025), where you’ll wander through stunning illuminated installations with a ticket costing around $34 for adults.
Budget-wise, most events range between $20 and $60. Some offer early-bird discounts and online passes, so it’s wise to book ahead.
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4) Enjoy festivities of San Francisco
San Francisco is buzzing with exciting events and exciting hot spots in California during Thanksgiving that will offer a perfect blend of food, fun, and scenic beauty!
One must-do experience is the Thanksgiving Premier Brunch Cruise. This delightful cruise sets sail across the bay, giving you stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz while you enjoy a buffet with all the classic Thanksgiving trimmings.
You can opt for the Premier Dinner Cruise for a more magical evening, where you can indulge in a gourmet Thanksgiving dinner as the city lights up at night.
If you prefer to spend Thanksgiving outdoors, the San Francisco Botanical Garden offers free admission which makes it a tranquil escape within the city’s Golden Gate Park.
With 55 acres of diverse plant life, it’s perfect for a leisurely Thanksgiving morning stroll.
You can also head to Cobb’s Comedy Club to catch a hilarious stand-up show during the holiday weekend or explore one of San Francisco’s historic cocktail bars, like the House of Shields, for a drink in a speakeasy-like setting.
No matter your plans, be prepared to budget for tickets. The brunch and dinner cruises start around $150-$200 per person, while free or low-cost activities, like the Botanical Garden, make for a more affordable outing.
Just be sure to reserve your spots in advance, as these events can fill up quickly!
5) Experience the Thanksgiving of Napa Valley
Napa Valley is one of the top rated places to visit in California on Thanksgiving this year. In 2024, you’ll find several events that capture the spirit of the holiday season that has exciting things for everyone.
Start with the Napa Valley Turkey Chase on Thanksgiving morning (November 28th), where you can choose between a 5K or 10K race along the scenic Napa River Trail.
Registration costs range from $40 to $60, depending on when you sign up. It’s a great way to kick off the day and make some room for the Thanksgiving feast later on.
If you’re looking for something more casual, stop by the Makers Market in downtown Napa, an artisan fair where you can shop for crafts and enjoy live music.
On Thanksgiving weekend, wineries across Napa also host special tastings and dinners, so be sure to check calendars and book early as these events tend to sell out quickly.
As for budgeting, hotel deals are abundant that range from cozy inns to luxury resorts, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Come and join Thanksgiving in Napa Valley and enjoy the outdoor adventure of small-town.
6) Visit the top spots of Lake Tahoe
Thanksgiving in Lake Tahoe for 2024 offers a cozy mix of family-friendly events, snowy adventures, and festive dining options.
You can start the holiday by attending a traditional Thanksgiving dinner at Palisades Tahoe, where a grand buffet awaits with carving stations, holiday sides, and complimentary champagne.
Adults dine for $90, while kids aged 5-12 eat for $29, and children under 4 are free but need a seat reservation.
You’ll need to book ahead, and if you have an IKON pass, you’re in for a discount! The ambiance is both festive and inclusive, with a nod to reflecting on the history of Thanksgiving.
For activities, the Evening LED Glow Clear Kayak Tour offers an extraordinary way to explore Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters while paddling in glowing kayaks ($152.57 per person).
Alternatively, the Zephyr Cove Helicopter Tour gives you stunning aerial views of the lake for $185.50. If you’re looking for something slower-paced, enjoy the Tahoe Coastal Self-Guided E-Bike Tour, allowing you to discover scenic views along the coast for around $109.
Budget-wise, you can spend anywhere from $100 to $200 depending on your adventure style, while scenic views and Thanksgiving feasts combine to make the experience unforgettable.
Skiing passes or IKON discounts at Palisades Tahoe can also help manage costs for snow activities.
Whether you prefer to stay cozy with a festive meal or explore the wintry outdoors, Lake Tahoe has an array of experiences to make your Thanksgiving memorable.
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Best Hotels To Stay In California For Thanksgiving
- The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
- Hotel del Coronado, San Diego
- Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa
- The Fairmont, San Francisco
- Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino
- The Lodge at Torrey Pines, La Jolla
Conclusion
Thanksgiving in California is more than just a holiday; it’s a celebration of the state’s rich culture and community spirit.
With a focus on fresh, local ingredients, the feast offers a delightful twist on traditional favorites. Families and friends gather to share stories and laughter, often extending their gratitude through acts of kindness and giving.
Whether it’s a coastal picnic or a vineyard dinner, the holiday is marked by the warmth of togetherness.
For anyone visiting, California’s unique approach to Thanksgiving creates unforgettable memories that blend scenic beauty with culinary excellence, truly making it a feast for the senses.