This is a collaborative post.
For some families, a Thanksgiving celebration is all about a large, festive meal. For others, a successful holiday is time spent with friends and family. Luckily, San Diego can deliver many unique ways to celebrate the holiday. Whether you are a local or visiting for Thanksgiving, check out some of these events and relaxing things to do in San Diego to make your Thanksgiving more memorable than ever.
Thanksgiving in San Diego
Let’s talk turkey for a minute. Restaurants all around the city host phenomenal Thanksgiving feasts. Some are traditional and sumptuous, while others emphasize ambiance and a fantastic waterfront. Be sure to call your preferred restaurant soon to book your reservation and ask about the menu.
If you rather have a meal at your home or home-away-from-home, order your Thanksgiving meal at one of the local markets or catering sites. They can prepare your favorite dishes for you to heat up when you are ready to eat. Consider hosting a Marine from Camp Pendleton who cannot make it home through the Home Hospitality program.
For a one-of-a-kind Thanksgiving meal, book a private dinner cruise San Diego to enjoy with your family and friends. With a special meal and that stunning sunset over the Pacific, you may wonder why you don’t spend every holiday exploring SoCal.
Where To Go in San Diego To Celebrate Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is more than just a meal; it also kicks off the holiday season for many families who love to share new experiences. San Diego is always bustling with festive events and activities to enjoy. Here are some to check out this Thanksgiving:
- Watch a Parade – The weekend before T’giving is the annual Mother Goose Parade in El Cajon. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the event, which always draws big crowds.
- Run or walk a 5K – San Diego is home to three fun runs, the O’side Turkey Trot, the Father Joe’s Village Turkey Trot, and the Great Pie Run. All three are virtual races this year, but if you register, you can still score a fabulous t-shirt to wear after your meal.
- Go Ice Skating – What better way to get in the holiday spirit than by strapping on some blades and taking a spin on the ice? Thanksgiving is the kick-off for the Hotel Del Coronado’s Skating by the Sea, so make time to visit the island for this annual activity.
- Watch the Whales – Book a tour with one of the San Diego boat charters for a whale-watching expedition. Keep an eye out for blue whales finished their migration season or any of the other mammals who love the SoCal coast as much as you do.
- Listen to Music – Thanksgiving week is when the San Diego Jazz Fest takes place. Look at the lineup to see who is performing or just show up and enjoy the atmosphere and great music.
No matter where you eat or what you do during your San Diego thanksgiving celebration, you are bound to have a fabulous time. You may even want to make a visit to America’s Finest City your new holiday tradition.