This year, Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 26, making it less than a month away. Instead of sitting home in front of the TV watching football in a tryptophan coma – not to say that isn’t one of my favorite things to do – being the traveler that I am, I’d rather get away.
Washington, DC
Our nation’s capital is in full swing during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. After indulging in a Thanksgiving feast at one of DC’s finest restaurants, go for a spin around the ice skating rink. There is also the White House tradition of the Presidential Turkey Pardon.
Hawaii
You might be surprised to find Hawaii on this list, but the tropical islands are one of my favorite places to celebrate Thanksgiving. From luaus to dinner cruises, Hawaii during the month of November is particularly special. It is also the beginning of humpback whale season. Instead of being bundled up in the cold, why not spend the cooler months in the tropics soaking up the sun?
Chicago, Illinois
Marching bands, balloon floats, and baton twirling take over State Street during the annual McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade. Not to be missed is the annual open-air German holiday market, Christkindlmarket Chicago where you can sip Glühwein, enjoy bratwurst and potato pancakes, and pick up handmade Bavarian ornaments.
San Francisco, California
A blanket of fog sets over San Francisco in the cooler months and there serene autumn scene is in full effect making the city very picturesque for the perfect Thanksgiving weekend. From the annual Thanksgiving Day 5K Race to a cruise along the water with Hornblower Cruises. Be sure to stop by the Fairmont’s 2-story gingerbread house that is delectably awesome! The day after Thanksgiving be sure to visit Union Square for the Macy’s Annual Great Tree Lighting, a beautiful, reusable 83’ tree decorated with more than 33,000 twinkling energy-efficient LED lights and 1,100 shining ornaments.
Salon De Ning. Courtesy Peninsula Hotel
New York City
Last, but certainly not least, is the Big Apple. New York City is one of the best places in my opinion to celebrate Thanksgiving – precisely why that is where I am celebrating this year, and many years past for that matter. Why? Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for starters. While many would think that the Thanksgiving feast should be at home, NYC is home to some of the best food in the world. Why not take advantage and stuff your face with artisan turkey at places like Tavern on the Green in Central Park or Maialino in Gramercy. Then, shop ’til you drop on Black Friday – after all the shopping in Manhattan is world class. Personally, I like to end Black Friday on the rooftop bar Salon De Ning at the Peninsula Hotel.
Where is your favorite place to celebrate Thanksgiving?
