One of the most beloved traditions of the year, Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday season for many cities around the world. It’s most celebrated in the United States where it not only celebrates a fruitful harvest but also marks the time Pilgrims and Native Americans first shared a feast in the New World.
Traditionally, families get together to share turkey and pumpkin pie at home. But if you’re one of those people who want to step out for a fun and action-packed Thanksgiving somewhere new, we’ve got you covered. Start planning the big day and check out the best Thanksgiving events on our radar this month.
Party in NYC
New York is one of the most popular destinations during the holiday season, partly due to the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Every year, people flock to Manhattan to be part of the annual spectacle of giant floats, theatrical performances, marching bands, celebrities and general revelry on the streets of New York. It may be fun to watch on television, but trust us when we say there’s nothing like the experience of celebrating the party live.
The eye-popping procession goes from 77th Street to 34th Street starting at 9 am, but stake out your spot early to make sure you get a good view. Many begin taking to the streets by 6 am, especially along the 34th Street where most of the performances tend to take place. Tourists who want a premiere view without the crowds may book a room with one of the hotels along the route such as the New York Hilton Midtown, the Quin or the JW Marriott.
Other shows you can catch in the city for Thanksgiving include the annual extravaganza Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Disney on Ice: Dare to Dream and famous musicals like Chicago – The Musical, Waitress, Cats and Phantom of the Opera.
Of course, aside from the live spectacles, Thanksgiving is all about good food. This year, why not enjoy dinner a little differently? Take the family on a three-hour cruise around the island of Manhattan with Hornblower Cruises & Events’ Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise, an experience that combines excellent fare, music, and sights for one unforgettable night.
Go authentic in Plymouth and Boston
The Pilgrims and Native Americans originally broke bread together in Plymouth, Massachusetts, so it’s no wonder that travelers who are seeking an authentic Thanksgiving experience often go to New England to spend the weekend there. Plymouth is only about an hour away south of Boston, so a day trip will suffice for those staying in the state capital.
Visit Plimouth Plantation for a painstakingly faithful recreation of the original 17th-century settlement of the Pilgrims. Actors mill around as Pilgrims and Native Americans, offering a fun backdrop to the “town” and an authentic picture of daily life during that period. Thanksgiving weekend in the town of Plymouth also has an elaborate annual parade and a free concert on the streets.
In Boston, there are plenty of activities to keep the holiday spirit alive. Delectable festive fare is available throughout the city, from brunch at the Boston Harbor Hotel to a snazzy three-course evening feast at the Bar Baloud in Mandarin Oriental Boston. On the weekend, sports buffs can catch a live home game of the Bruins or Celtics at the TD Garden.
Bonus: drop by Old Sturbridge Village where 19th-century traditions – cooking, table manners, food, and games – are honored during Thanksgiving Day.
Laidback fun in Los Angeles
The City of Angels is known for its health and fitness craze, so if you’re looking to shed some pounds for the holiday season, this is the right city for you. Before stuffing your face for Thanksgiving, take to the streets for the Turkey Trot, a 5k or 10k run that’s not only a fun event for the special day, but also benefits the organization Midnight Mission.
At noontime, consider heading over to the Aquarium of the Pacific for a unique take on Thanksgiving festivities. Make it a day for the entire family! Kids will love meeting over 11,000 ocean animals, while parents will enjoy the mouthwatering buffet of traditional Thanksgiving show at Café Scuba.
Next up on Hollywood’s list is Christmas and it kicks off on Thanksgiving weekend. On November 26, the star-studded Hollywood Christmas Parade takes place with plenty of live music, funk and hoopla to entertain locals and visiting merrymakers.
Fly to your destination with Jettly
However you choose to spend the holiday, make sure you do it in style. Jettly offers private charter flights all around the world, making global travel fast, efficient and supremely comfortable. Submit a flight request now and experience air travel at its finest.