Fall and sweater are not Florida’s favorite combo but Thanksgiving is celebrated with full enthusiasm!
Thanksgiving in Florida is more than just turkey and pie – it’s a sun-kissed holiday with a tropical twist! And the twist? Although it is in November, you can still wear your sandals.
Sandals in November Why?
While much of the country is bundling up, Floridians are out on the beach, soaking up the sun, and gathering with friends and family for a laid-back, yet festive, celebration.
Why is Thanksgiving in Florida so famous?
Well, aside from the perfect weather, the state’s diverse culture makes this holiday extra special. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you’ll find a delightful fusion of traditional Thanksgiving customs with Latin, Caribbean, and Southern flavors.
Locals enjoy adding Cuban-style roast pork, fried plantains, and fresh seafood alongside the turkey and stuffing. For dessert? You might just find a key lime pie sitting next to the pumpkin pie on the table!
Celebrations in Florida often involve outdoor activities – think beach barbecues, football games in the park, and even a boat parade or two!
Many cities, like Miami and Orlando, host events like Thanksgiving-themed festivals, marathons, and even parades featuring vibrant floats.
For tourists, it’s an exciting time to explore. Imagine spending the morning at Disney World and ending your day with a Thanksgiving feast!
Gift-giving on Thanksgiving in Florida is usually focused on the little things – small tokens like handmade crafts, tropical flowers, or gourmet local food items like citrus jams or artisanal chocolates. It’s all about sharing love and gratitude.
Whether you’re there for the sunshine, the food, or the festive spirit, Thanksgiving in Florida is a unique experience that blends warmth, culture, and the comforts of home.
Ready to indulge in the fun? Brace yourself up!
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1) Explore Miami
Miami’s list is brimming with exciting things and cherry on top preparations of Thanksgiving this 2024 is filled with events on land and at sea both.
For hotspots in Florida during Thanksgiving you can join the Thanksgiving 5-star event aboard the Seafair Mega Yacht. This luxurious event offers gourmet dining, live entertainment, and stunning views of the Miami skyline.
Prices range from $116 to $452, depending on your seating preferences, but it’s worth the splurge for a fancy night out on the water.
If you’re more of a partygoer, the Miami Thanksgiving Eve Bar Crawl on November 27 is a fun way to kickstart the holiday. This free event allows you to hop between some of Miami’s hottest bars, soaking up the lively atmosphere.
For those who love cruising, several Thanksgiving cruises depart from the Port of Miami, including the Valiant Lady Thanksgiving Cruise and the Bella Thanksgiving Cruise.
These offer an all-inclusive holiday experience, with meals, entertainment, and on-deck activities ranging from family-friendly to adults-only adventures.
For budget-conscious travelers, there are free Thanksgiving events like the community dinner hosted by Touching Miami with Love that offer a warm and welcoming environment.
Be sure to book early, especially for cruises, as they tend to fill up fast!
2) Party with Jacksonville
Thanksgiving in Jacksonville, Florida, for 2024 offers a mix of family fun, dining, and outdoor activities. One of the standout events is the Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic which is a race perfect for anyone looking to burn some calories before indulging in a holiday feast.
Whether you’re a runner or walker, it’s a spirited way to start the holiday on November 28, 2024.
For something a bit more unconventional, Jacksonville hosts a Thanksgiving Eve Bar Crawl on November 27 which will offer a lively night out with local brews and cocktails.
If you’d rather stay close to nature, the Thanksgiving-themed DIY flower centerpiece class on November 23 is a creative way to spend the day.
For families, consider the Jacksonville Thanksgiving Cruise, where you can choose between a 5-night Carnival cruise to the Bahamas or a 7-night American Cruise Line trip to explore local Florida rivers and coastal towns.
These cruises provide a festive Thanksgiving feast while you’re at sea, plus the chance to unwind in beautiful destinations.
If you’re on a budget, many of these events are reasonably priced. The bar crawl and race have moderate entrance fees, while some of the family-friendly workshops may require a small materials fee.
The cruises, of course, are pricier, but they include meals, accommodations, and top destinations to visit on Thanksgiving if you are in Jacksonville, Florida.
3) Enjoy boating at Pine Island
Pine Island is a top place to visit in Florida on Thanksgiving year from where you can expect an entertaining blend of family-friendly events and nature-focused activities.
One highlight is the Thanksgiving Day Feast hosted by local restaurants, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and traditional Thanksgiving dishes.
You can also join various community gatherings at parks and beaches and have a wonderful time for outdoor fun and family picnics.
Some places even organize Thanksgiving-themed boat tours to enjoy the scenic waters around the island.
If you’re looking for unique experiences, consider exploring nearby nature trails or taking part in seasonal events like holiday markets and art festivals, which often occur around Thanksgiving in Southwest Florida.
For those interested in getting active, Pine Island may also offer events like Turkey Trots, where you can participate in a 5K run with a festive twist.
In terms of budget, Pine land is the best Florida city to be in during Thanksgiving. Outdoor activities like hiking and beach days are free, and many community events charge little to no admission fees.
Dining at local restaurants for Thanksgiving meals can range from $20 to $50 per person, depending on the venue.
Most events do not require special passes, but reservations for dinners or boat tours are highly recommended to ensure a spot, especially during the holiday weekend.
Overall, Thanksgiving on Pine Island is a laid-back celebration of nature, good food, and community.
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4) Plan your holidays in Tampa
Tampa, a Florida must-visit spot on Thanksgiving, is buzzing with activities and offering everything from fun runs to festive parties.
If you’re looking for a lively Thanksgiving, consider kicking it off on Wednesday, November 22 with events like Turkey Scramble at Club Renaissance for golf lovers or the Turkey Giveaway in Riverview.
For party-goers, there’s Electro Turkey Roll at United Skates of America or Drinksgiving at American Social, which is all about mingling with friends over drinks.
On Thanksgiving Day, if you prefer something active, join the YMCA Turkey Gobble 5k at Amalie Arena. Volunteering opportunities like Operation Turkey also offer a meaningful way to give back by preparing and delivering meals.
If a feast is more your style, head to The Tampa EDITION for an extravagant Thanksgiving buffet.
For a unique twist, try Christmas Town Of Florida at Busch Gardens, where you can walk among millions of twinkling lights, enjoy shows, and ride festive trains. This runs from November 15 and is a perfect post-dinner event.
Budget-wise, many events like park picnics, the Turkey Gobble 5k, and volunteering are low-cost or free. Others, like the Busch Gardens Christmas Town, will require passes starting around $30.
Be sure to check event-specific details on costs for dinner reservations and parties.
5) Relax with the events of Tallahassee
There are many fun Things to do in Florida during Thanksgiving 2024 and Tallahassee is ready to contribute.
If you’re a sports lover, the weekend is packed with excitement, including football games like the Florida State Seminoles taking on the North Carolina Tar Heels and Charleston Southern Buccaneers at the Doak Campbell Stadium.
It is promising a lively atmosphere perfect for Thanksgiving weekend fun.
And if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, local restaurants are offering pre-ordered Thanksgiving meals.
You can grab delicious to-go feasts from places like Taste Budz (traditional turkey with sides) or the Gilliam Sisters Soul Food, perfect if you prefer a cozy, family meal at home without the hassle of cooking.
Other places like Lucilla provide a gourmet option at around $65 per person which features herb-roasted turkey breast and pork tenderloin.
Budget-wise, attending games or concerts may vary, with football tickets likely to cost between $30-$100 depending on the seating, while pre-order meals can range from $20 to $65 per person.
Most events won’t require passes, but early booking is recommended for both meals and shows due to holiday demand.
Fun options also include concerts, local fairs, and holiday markets that begin to pop up in November which makes it a well-rounded Thanksgiving season for foodies, sports enthusiasts, and music lovers.
6) Enjoy activities of Orlando
Orlando is a fantastic Florida’s Thanksgiving spot of 2024 to spend your holidays, filled with both traditional festivities and unique experiences. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the top events happening in 2024.
If you’re looking for seasonal fun, SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration kicks off around Thanksgiving with holiday-themed shows, a Christmas market, and stunning decorations, creating a festive atmosphere.
Admission to SeaWorld starts at about $125 per person, but it’s worth checking for holiday discounts.
Winter Park transforms with its outdoor ice rink, “Winter in the Park,” which offers ice skating under the open sky.
It’s a delightful way to experience winter fun in sunny Florida. Admission for ice skating is around $15, including skate rental.
For active holiday-goers, Orlando hosts several Turkey Trots, which are fun runs held on Thanksgiving morning.
These family-friendly events help you start the day on a healthy note before indulging in all the delicious food.
If you’re a foodie, head to the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, starting on Thanksgiving weekend.
You’ll experience food, traditions, and cultural events from around the world, with park admission starting at $149 for a one-day pass.
For something creative, try decorating your own gingerbread house at the Gaylord Palms Resort’s Gingerbread School starting at $36.99. Or you can join the Ritz-Carlton Orlando’s Gingerbread School for an elevated experience.
Budget-wise, expect passes ranging from $30 to $150 for various events. Many outdoor parks and local markets are free to explore which makes it possible to enjoy Thanksgiving in Orlando on any budget.
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Best Hotels To Stay In Florida During Thanksgiving
- The Breakers Palm Beach
- Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World
- The Ritz-Carlton, Naples
- Fontainebleau Miami Beach
- Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach
- JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
Conclusion
Thanksgiving in Florida is where warmth meets tradition. Whether you’re diving into a plate of turkey with a side of plantains or watching a boat parade under palm trees, the holiday here has its own magic.
Locals adore the best of both worlds – a celebration of gratitude wrapped in sunshine and cultural fusion.
So, whether you’re a tourist looking for a new way to enjoy Thanksgiving or a Floridian adorning your roots, one thing is clear – there’s no better place to celebrate a holiday of thanks than in the Sunshine State!