It's fall in 2023, and just because not all the leaves turn colors in California does not mean we don't know how to celebrate Thanksgiving festively. Enjoy fresh and organic farm-raised turkey and Black Friday shopping until you drop. Give back, eat a lot, and enjoy time with family to have the 10 Best Thanksgiving Activities and Events in California!
The night before Thanksgiving, or after the big family get-together, locals head to Verdugo Bar to kick back and enjoy the holidays without the stress. College kids who didn't head home mingle with locals looking to have fun before and after the big meal.
There are many trendy pie places all over the city, but Four' N 20 Pies has been making them for decades, and they know what they're doing. During November, Four' N 20 serves up flavors that are perfect for bringing to Thanksgiving dinner including pumpkin, sweet potato, pecan, apple and more. You might want to order ahead.
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Family owned and operated Rainbow Ranch farm is a local legend. People drive from as far away as Las Vegas to pick up a turkey for their family meal raised ethically and organically. You must order a turkey for Thanksgiving far in advance because the small farm can only grow so many, but you can try to have a chicken or other protein shipped if the farm is already sold out.
Prepare for long hours of shopping and plenty of mall madness at the Glendale Galleria, one of the best malls in California to score deals. The mall has both upscale and affordable shops and has redone its parking to make navigating things a bit easier. Check for times and specials to make your plan of attack a little easier.
The Hollywood Christmas Parade takes place the Sunday of Thanksgiving Weekend. Each year, a minor celebrity is chosen as the Grand Marshall, and you’ll spot many floats, creative costumes, and famous and familiar faces along the parade route and in the crowd.
Explore a Thanksgiving feast at the Hotel Del Coronado! Enjoy a lavish feast with all the trimmings and live musical entertainment in the beautiful and new Southpointe Ballroom. The Del Resort will take us back to the 1920s with their "A Twenties Holiday Affair" decorations and festivities this season.
Experience the more casual side of La Toque this Thanksgiving and savor the seasonal specialties with a Thanksgiving twist. It features free-range turkey, slow-roasted in the kitchen's Combi ovens, and everyone will go home with Chef Ken's famous "leftover" turkey sandwiches! The 26TH Annual Thanksgiving Day Feast will be held at La Toque in Napa, CA, with seating between 1 pm - 5 pm.
For years, the Union Station Homeless Services has been holding holiday meals on Thanksgiving and Christmas to give less fortunate community members a place to gather for holiday meals. Born in the park, the event is one of the most significant efforts. Volunteers and donations are much appreciated to help the service continue its efforts throughout the year.
Thanksgiving is the first official holiday of the holiday season. After dinner, head to the LA Zoo to see a spectacular light display. Reindeer and Santa are there on some nights, but the natural attraction is being at the zoo at night. Get tickets in advance for the special event.