Top 7 Cities To Celebrate Thanksgiving In Nevada

Thanksgiving in Nevada is a wild mashup of family traditions and a dash of Sin City flair.

While you might think of Vegas as all glitz and glamor, this desert state knows how to celebrate Thanksgiving with heart and a pinch of sass.

Trust me, you’ll love spending your holidays here because the snowy Nevada is the best place to run away from summer! 

Families gather for feasts, often in homes, but with many hitting up buffets at casinos. Why? Because who wants to cook when the lavish spreads are just a short jaunt away? 

What makes Thanksgiving in Nevada famous? It’s all about the unique experiences. In Reno and Las Vegas, you’ll find epic parades, lively events, and even festive shows that keep the holiday spirit alive. 

One interesting fact: Nevada has some of the highest turkey consumption rates in the country, thanks to all those buffet-goers! 

Local specialties often include not just the classic turkey and stuffing, but also inventive dishes like sage-infused mashed potatoes or roasted pumpkin seeds. 

And don’t forget the pumpkin pie, which is practically a must-have at every Thanksgiving table! Many people also indulge in a twist with local favorites like fried game birds or sweet potato casserole with a Nevada spin.

So, whether you’re a tourist soaking in the lights of Vegas or a local savoring the family vibe, Thanksgiving in Nevada is a celebration that promises warmth, laughter, and a hearty feast that leaves you craving more. 

Wondering what Nevada cities to be in during Thanksgiving? Let the quirky charm and the holiday magic sweep you off your feet!

1) Engage in outdoor adventures of Lake Tahoe

Thanksgiving at Lake Tahoe is shaping up to be a blend of festive outdoor adventures and cozy holiday vibes with snowy weather. 

Image yourself starting your day with a crisp sleigh ride through snow-covered meadows with Borges Sleigh Rides. 

Imagine being bundled up, listening to jingle bells as your horse-drawn carriage glides through a winter wonderland—Instagrammable, right? Rides last about 40 minutes, and after, you can warm up with hot cocoa by a cozy fire.

If you’re up for something more active, Tahoe Donner’s snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails offer over 100 kilometers of groomed beauty. 

Whether you’re a novice or a pro, these trails are a great way to burn off some turkey calories and take in sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada. Equipment rentals and lessons are available, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your gear!

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a little shopping! Hit the Village at Northstar or The Shops at Heavenly Village for some retail therapy. 

These alpine-style villages offer unique boutiques, local art, and even an ice-skating rink if you want to keep the fun rolling.

Budget-wise, expect sleigh rides to run around $50 per adult, while skiing and snowshoeing at Tahoe Donner can cost between $25-$45 depending on rentals and passes. 

Don’t forget to snag your Thanksgiving feast at one of the cozy local restaurants, like the Edgewood Tahoe Resort, where gourmet meals come with lakefront views!

From outdoor adventures to festive village fun, Thanksgiving at Lake Tahoe is about adorning the snowy magic and making memories.

2) Go on a historical Thanksgiving tour of Carson City 

Looking for some top things to do in Nevada during Thanksgiving 2024? Let Carson rescue you! Whether you’re into crafts, live music, or some holiday relaxation, there’s something for everyone!

One of the highlights is the A Touch of Class Craft Show at the Carson Valley Inn, running from October 24-26. 

You’ll find tons of handmade holiday-themed items like Thanksgiving and Christmas decorations, jewelry, pottery, candles, and more. 

This is the ultimate spot to get a jump on your holiday shopping. Plus, there’s a kids’ corner for the little ones, packed with fun crafts. The best part? Entry is free, and you’ll want to bring a budget of about $20-50 for those irresistible finds!

Looking for something more outdoorsy? The Silver State Art Festival in Fuji Park will run through the fall, featuring award-winning local artists in a lively outdoor setting. 

Admission is affordable, usually $5 or less, making it a great, budget-friendly family outing.

Don’t miss Wind Down Wednesdays at Heritage Park in nearby Gardnerville for a bit of holiday relaxation. 

Picture food trucks, live music, and a chill vibe to kick back after a busy Thanksgiving. Free entry and food prices around $10-15 make it easy on the wallet.

So whether you’re shopping, eating, or just kicking back, Carson City’s Thanksgiving events are the perfect mix of festive cheer and community spirit.

3) Enjoy the charm of Las Vegas 

Thanksgiving in Las Vegas is packed with fun, food, and a bit of Vegas-style craziness! The weather is pretty perfect for strolling the Strip, with highs in the 60s°F and the city glowing with holiday decorations. 

Ready to feast? Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace is the place to be for an over-the-top buffet which offers everything from apple cider-brined turkey to marshmallow-topped sweet potato casserole. 

If you’re looking for upscale dining, Bazaar Meat by José Andrés will blow you away with its carnivorous Thanksgiving spread, including roast turkey, turbot, and a killer pecan pie. 

Are you not feeling a traditional meal? Hit the STK Steakhouse at The Cosmopolitan for trendy vibes and an epic Thanksgiving menu.

Stuffed from your Thanksgiving dinner? Keep the party rolling with a Thanksgiving Eve Bar Crawl on Fremont Street—it’s a wild night out with a professional party host. 

Do you prefer a chill vibe? Hop on the Happy Half-Hour at the High Roller, where you can enjoy an open bar in a giant Ferris wheel above the Strip. 

If you’re up for more family-friendly fun, shows like the Blue Man Group and Cirque du Soleil’s “O” will amaze you.

Expect to pay anywhere from $60 for a decadent buffet to $150+ for finer dining spots. Bar crawls and rides on the High Roller start around $35. 

Booking early is key, especially for meals and shows, since Thanksgiving is a busy time in Sin City.

In a nutshell, great food, tons of entertainment, and endless ways to burn off that turkey are the hotspots in Nevada during Thanksgiving!

4) Participate in Parades of Reno 

If you’re in Reno for Thanksgiving 2024-2025, you’re in for a treat! Reno doesn’t do Thanksgiving halfway—there’s a wild mix of events perfect for every vibe and many romantic things to do in Reno. 

Start by diving into the Reno Puzzling Adventure, an epic scavenger hunt that turns the city into your personal puzzle board. For just $35, your smartphone guides you through challenges for 1-3 hours of interactive fun.

Are you feeling artsy? Don’t miss the Burning Man Art and Downtown Mural Tour. It’s a 1-hour walk through Reno’s colorful streets, packed with vibrant murals and iconic Burning Man pieces. It’s only $65, and trust me, the photo ops are unbeatable.

Looking to up the adrenaline? Check out 

Snowmobiling in the Sierra Nevada! This high-octane ride through snowy landscapes will set you back around $429, but a four-hour adventure will leave you buzzing. 

Or, if you’re more into a cozy holiday vibe, the Twinkle Tours whisk you through a festive wonderland of lights for $130—perfect for a romantic holiday evening.

If you’re more about the chill, snag a spot on the Truckee River Rafting Tour for $133, or go for the Historic Donner Party Tour if you want a mix of history and nature. 

And don’t forget to feast! Local restaurants like Bundox Bocce offer Thanksgiving dinners with fun extras like bocce play.

As for budget? For a self-guided audio tour, you can go as low as $5.99, but the high-end snowmobile rides can cost around $500. 

Overall, you can find many destinations on Thanksgiving if you are in Nevada, no matter your budget!

5) Attend gatherings of Sparks

Thanksgiving in Sparks promises to be a cozy, fun-filled season with events perfect for holiday cheer. One must-attend is Crafts for Christmas at the Nugget Casino Resort, happening from November 28 to December 1, 2024. 

Expect an indoor wonderland of local crafts, holiday gifts, and unique handmade items to kick-start your festive shopping. 

Whether hunting for quirky gifts or getting into the holiday spirit, this event brings the season’s warmth indoors. 

Another exciting event to check out is the Magic of Santa Christmas Craft Faire at the Reno-Sparks Convention Centre on December 7-8, 2024. 

With endless booths showcasing holiday crafts, gifts, and more, this is your chance to get those personalized and one-of-a-kind holiday treasures.

For a more laid-back vibe, the Handmade for the Holidays event at Red Hawk Golf & Resort on November 9-10, 2024, is an intimate craft fair perfect for those looking to support local artisans while sipping hot cocoa and enjoying some fresh, fall air.

Passes? No worries! Most events like Crafts for Christmas and Handmade for the Holidays are free to attend, but you’ll want to bring your shopping budget for all the irresistible holiday goods. 

Expect various prices, from wallet-friendly knick-knacks to pricier, handcrafted masterpieces.

Whether on a budget or ready to splurge, you’ll find plenty of entertainment, holiday joy and the best Nevada Thanksgiving spots of 2024 in Sparks!

6) Witness the rustic holiday feast of Elko

Thanksgiving in Elko is all set to deliver a festive mix of fun events, hearty meals, and outdoor activities that excite you.

You’ll start with the annual Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, an early morning 5K run/walk that lets you burn off those extra holiday calories before you feast. 

It’s a family-friendly event where participants dressed in funny costumes, can take to Elko’s streets in a burst of color. This event is perfect for all ages, with entry fees around $15-$30, depending on registration timing.

For something more laid-back, Downtown Elko’s Cozy Cocktail Walk is happening over the weekend, letting you sip on festive drinks from various local bars and restaurants.

This event is a total mood-lifter! Expect tickets for this cocktail-filled stroll to run about $20-$40, depending on your drink choices.

Afterward, don’t miss the Thanksgiving Farmers’ Market on Saturday, where you can snag local goodies—perfect for last-minute feast additions or holiday shopping. 

Entry is usually free, and items range from affordable to premium, so there’s something for every budget.

Families looking for indoor fun can head over to the Elko Roller Skate Rink for some post-Thanksgiving open skate sessions. Admission hovers around $5-$10, and skate rentals are available, making it a low-cost way to unwind after the holiday madness.

With outdoor adventures, local events, and family-friendly fun, Elko transforms into a Nevada must-visit spot on Thanksgiving.

You can expect a small budget for each event, but it’s more about the local community vibe that brings everyone together to celebrate.

7) Enjoy small-town celebrations of Boulder City 

Boulder City is the best-rated place to visit in Nevada on Thanksgiving this year because it’s all about cozy vibes, fun, and fantastic activities. 

First up, don’t miss the “Best Dam Wine Walk: Halloween Haunts” happening in October 2024. 

This pre-Thanksgiving event will get you in the festive mood with a stroll through the historic downtown. 

For just $25 ($35 at the door), you get to sip wine, flaunt your best costumes, and explore local shops. Make sure to bring your ID because it’s 21+ only. 

When Thanksgiving rolls around, you’ll find yourself in the midst of a small-town celebration with a big heart. 

Expect family-friendly fun like Boulder City’s famous Art in the Park, where vendors offer everything from fine art to traditional crafts, plus live entertainment! 

It’s a great way to support the local hospital as proceeds go to Boulder City Hospital. The best part? It’s free!

For outdoor lovers, hit Lake Mead or rent a kayak for some fresh air, or cycle around the scenic River Mountains Loop Trail. If you’re into history, the Historic Railroad Trail offers panoramic views and great photo ops. 

There are also plenty of parks like Bicentennial Park where Thanksgiving gatherings often pop up!

Budget-wise, many events, like Art in the Park, are free, while activities like the wine walk are relatively affordable. 

No big passes are needed—just bring your wallet for snacks, art purchases, and drinks! Boulder City is a laid-back, fun, and affordable spot to enjoy a memorable Thanksgiving. 

Best Hotels To Stay In Nevada During Thanksgiving

• The Venetian Resort (Las Vegas)
• Wynn Las Vegas (Las Vegas)
• Reno Tahoe Hotel (Reno)
• Bellagio Hotel and Casino (Las Vegas)
• Atlantis Casino Resort Spa (Reno)
• M Resort Spa Casino (Henderson)

Conclusion  

Thanksgiving in Nevada isn’t just a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration that fuses tradition with a splash of fun! 

Whether you’re diving into a decadent buffet in a flashy casino or gathering around a cozy table at home, the spirit of gratitude and good vibes flows through every turkey leg and pumpkin pie slice. 

So grab your loved ones, indulge in those creative local dishes, and soak up the joy that makes this holiday in the Silver State a memorable feast for the senses. 

Adore the funky charm of Nevada and let the Thanksgiving festivities leave you hungry for more!