Every year, a million families gather in Texas to celebrate the cherished Thanksgiving holiday, and it’s not just about giving thanks; it’s about indulging in mouthwatering food and creating unforgettable memories.
Why is Thanksgiving in Texas so famous?
Well, the blend of traditional and Texan flavors gets everyone buzzing. Picture yourself enjoying a juicy smoked turkey—because why roast when you can smoke?—paired with savory cornbread stuffing, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich gravy.
Are you lost in the taste? But hold onto your hats; the side dishes really steal the show! Think spicy jalapeño cornbread, tangy cranberry sauce, and collard greens.
One interesting fact? The Dallas Cowboys have made Thanksgiving Day football a tradition since 1966, turning family gatherings into game-day parties!
And here’s another: Texans love their desserts, with pecan pie reigning supreme, giving the pumpkin pie a run for its money.
For locals and tourists, specialties abound. Some opt for deep-fried turkey, while others savor brisket alongside turkey, merging holiday traditions with Texas BBQ.
So, whether you’re enjoying a cozy meal at a family gathering or hitting a bustling Texas restaurant, Thanksgiving in the Lone Star State is an adventure filled with flavors that will have you coming back for more long after the turkey’s gone!
Are you thinking of what things to do in Texas during Thanksgiving 2024? Relax, we have your back!
1) Enjoy your holidays in DallasÂ
Dallas is one of the top places to visit in Texas on Thanksgiving this year.
You can start your holidays with the McQueen Foundation’s Annual Thanksgiving Dinner on November 28, where you’ll experience a heartwarming community gathering with delicious meals for everyone.
No passes are needed, and it’s an excellent opportunity to give back and enjoy the spirit of the holiday.
For something fun and active, check out the Thanksgiving Ninja Camp at Chamberlain Studios from November 25-27, which is a perfect spot for kids to learn martial arts while parents prepare for the holiday.
There’s also the Downtown Dallas Thanksgiving Break Holiday Camp at the YMCA, where kids can enjoy various games and activities.
If you want to add some culture, spend your day at the Dallas Museum of Art or head to The Majestic Theater for live performances.
For outdoor lovers, Klyde Warren Park and White Rock Lake are perfect for picnics and outdoor activities, whether you want to paddle on the lake or relax in the park.
Of course, the holiday wouldn’t be complete without some shopping! After your Thanksgiving meal, the Galleria Dallas offers ice skating and fantastic Black Friday deals.
Budget-wise, many events, such as community dinners and outdoor activities, are free, while camps and theater performances might cost $50-100, depending on the experience.
Reserve early for activities with limited spots, especially if you plan to join the camps.
2) Find peace in the city of San AntonioÂ
San Antonio is gearing up for an exciting Thanksgiving 2024! The city is rich in tradition, and this year’s events will not disappoint because although Thanksgiving is in colder months, it does not snow in San Antonio, so you can wear lighter clothes and enjoy your holidays!
One of the must-see attractions is the Ford Holiday River Parade, kicking off on November 29th. This iconic event on the RiverWalk dazzles with festive floats and brilliant lights that create the perfect atmosphere for families.
Admission starts at around $15, but it can go up to $40 for premium seating. Santa’s Ranch near New Braunfels offers a magical drive-through light display featuring a giant 50-foot Christmas tree if you’re craving something cozy after the turkey feast.
This light show will run from early November through December, and admission is budget-friendly at $35 per vehicle, making it perfect for families or groups of friends.
Turkey Trot races are being held nationwide for those wanting to work off that pumpkin pie. San Antonio will be hosting its version, where locals can run, jog, or walk through the city, all while supporting a good cause.
Shopping enthusiasts will love the Fredericksburg Trade Days Thanksgiving Show, which offers unique treasures and local crafts, while foodies can enjoy the Christmas Wine Affair in the Texas Hill Country.
Many of these events are family-friendly, and budgets vary from $20 to $150, depending on your chosen experience.
Whether you’re taking in the lights, enjoying a river parade, or sipping local wine, Thanksgiving in San Antonio is bound to be filled with memory-making moments that cater to every budget
3) Party hard at FredericksburgÂ
Are you looking for the best destinations to visit on Thanksgiving if you are in Texas? Fredericksburg is where you should be!
Start your weekend with the Eisbahn Outdoor Ice Skating Rink, which opens right after Thanksgiving and runs through New Year’s.
Set in the heart of Marktplatz, it’s a magical spot to glide on the ice while taking in the town’s German holiday traditions.
Proceeds from the rink support local causes, making it a feel-good way to enjoy the holiday. Skating costs around $15 per person, including skate rentals.
If you’re in the mood for shopping, Fredericksburg Trade Days Holiday Encore is the perfect post-Thanksgiving destination.
From November 29 to December 1, explore over 350 vendors selling everything from antiques to crafts. The $5 parking fee covers your access for all three days. After bargain-hunting, relax in the Biergarten with live music and a cold drink.
Don’t miss the 55 Nights of Fredericksburg Lights starting in late November. The town square comes alive every evening at 6 p.m. with a light show and traditional holiday music.
The 26-foot-tall German Christmas Pyramid and the Community Christmas Tree are the centerpieces of this dazzling display, which is free to enjoy.
For budget-conscious travelers, most events are free or low-cost, and with affordable accommodations in town, Fredericksburg is a beautiful getaway.
Check out local wineries or restaurants for a festive meal with a Texan twist!
4) Explore the charm of Fort WorthÂ
Fort Worth’s romance is famous worldwide, but it is also a Texas must-visit spot on Thanksgiving where you can have lots of fun!
Start your holiday at the Fort Worth YMCA Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning, a fun-filled charity run featuring a 10K, 5K, and a 1K Gobbler Trot for families.
It’s a perfect way to work up an appetite before the feast, and your registration fees support youth programs at the YMCA. Expect entry fees ranging from $15 to $45 depending on your race category.
Don’t miss the Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Texas in nearby Arlington for those looking to immerse in holiday wonder.
The park transforms into a winter wonderland with festive shows, holiday treats, and even a snow hill for sledding. Prices typically range from $40 to $90 for park entry, depending on the day, but annual passes offer great value if you plan to visit often.
Next, step into a magical light display at the Lightscape in the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. This enchanting experience features tunnels of light, illuminated sculptures, and festive music across the beautiful garden paths.
Tickets start at $18 for children and $28 for adults, with discounts for members and early bird specials.
The Texas Christkindl Market offers shopping enthusiasts an authentic German-inspired experience with handcrafted gifts, live entertainment, and delicious holiday treats. This market is free to enter, which makes it a budget-friendly stop.
Whether you’re burning calories with a trot or sipping hot cocoa under twinkling lights, Fort Worth has Thanksgiving events to fit every budget and style.
5) Wander the streets of GalvestonÂ
Galveston paradise for couples transforms into a festive paradise for Thanksgiving 2024-2025, with its signature Holiday in the Gardens at Moody Gardens leading the celebrations.
Expect dazzling lights, festive attractions, and family-friendly hot spots in Texas during Thanksgiving.
The Festival of Lights, starting from $25 for adults and $21 for kids, features over a million lights and animated displays along a mile-long trail paired with live entertainment and holiday treats.
For something extra cool, ICE LAND awaits with towering ice sculptures and slides, starting at $29 for adults and $24 for kids.
If you’re looking to dive into everything, grab a Holiday Pass. It starts at $65 for adults and $45 for kids, giving you access to ICELAND, the Festival of Lights, the Arctic Slide, and even Moody Gardens’ famed Aquarium Pyramid.
For a complete experience, the Value Day Pass, priced at $95 for adults and $75 for kids, includes the Rainforest Pyramid and more.
Beyond the Gardens, explore Galveston’s Historic Strand District for Victorian charm and holiday shopping, or visit the Pleasure Pier for roller coasters and seaside fun.
Don’t miss a stop at Stewart Beach for some autumnal beach vibes or grab a bite at local favorites like Mosquito Café for eclectic, homemade meals.
Budget-wise, whether you’re splurging on a hotel package or opting for day passes, the experiences here cater to a range of visitors.
Whether it’s a day of lights or an ice wonderland, there’s something in Galveston to keep everyone smiling this Thanksgiving!
6) Take a break with BoerneÂ
Thanksgiving in Boerne, Texas, is packed with festive holiday events, starting with the beloved Dickens on Main.
This two-day extravaganza runs along the charming Hill Country Mile from November 23-24, 2024.
Boasting six unique villages, it’s an old-fashioned holiday experience with horse-drawn carriages, dazzling lights, live entertainment, and even ice sculpture battles set to rock music!
You can stroll through freshly blown snow, take a 60-foot ice slide ride, and snap holiday photos with a live longhorn or beloved characters like Frosty and Rudolph.
Besides the fun, don’t miss out on food trucks and vendors offering mouth-watering bites and delightful holiday shopping. The event is family-friendly and offers free admission, but keep some cash handy for special activities and treats.
This is the perfect low-cost holiday outing for budget-conscious travelers, with most activities included. A few paid add-ons, like the snow slide or food truck goodies, won’t break the bank. Bundle up and enjoy all the festive charm without worrying about ticket prices.
Thanksgiving in Boerne offers the perfect mix of holiday cheer, family fun, and budget-friendly entertainment—guaranteeing an unforgettable start to the season!
Best Hotels To Stay In Texas During Thanksgiving
- The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa – Houston
- Hotel Emma – San Antonio
- La Cantera Resort & Spa – San Antonio
- The Driskill – Austin
- Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek – Dallas
- JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa – San AntonioÂ
Conclusion
In Texas, Thanksgiving isn’t just a day; it’s a full-on festival! With a delightful mix of tradition and Texan flair, you’ll savor every bite while creating lasting memories.
From juicy smoked turkeys to the iconic pecan pie, it’s a holiday that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the heart.
So grab your family, gather around the table, and get ready to give thanks in true Lone Star style—because every Thanksgiving is a party worth celebrating in Texas!