Thanksgiving events in Charlottesville are filled with joy, gratitude, and community, bringing friends and families together for unique local traditions. From vibrant fun runs to tree lightings, there’s no shortage of activities that capture the holiday spirit.
Let’s dive into some beloved Thanksgiving and early holiday traditions in the Charlottesville area that will add warmth and excitement to your family’s celebrations.
Start Your Day with a Turkey Trot
Kicking off Thanksgiving morning with a family-friendly run is a tradition cherished by many. The Charlottesville Turkey Trot 5K is scheduled for Thursday, November 28, 2024, at 9:00 AM. The race starts and finishes near Albemarle High School, offering a scenic route through surrounding neighborhoods. Registration includes a soft technical race t-shirt, and proceeds benefit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry.
Another popular Thanksgiving event is the Boar’s Head Turkey Trot 5K, also taking place on November 28, 2024, at 9:00 AM. This race begins and ends at the Boar’s Head Resort, winding through the picturesque Ednam Forest neighborhood. Participants receive a long-sleeve unisex t-shirt, with proceeds benefiting UVA Health Children’s.
For those near Earlysville, the Earlysville Turkey Trot is a charming local event that offers a more intimate race experience. Details for the 2024 event are typically announced closer to the date, so keep an eye on local listings for updates.
Holiday Markets: The Perfect Start to Christmas Shopping
Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday shopping season, and local holiday markets provide a charming atmosphere to find unique, handcrafted gifts. The Charlottesville Holiday Market on the Downtown Mall runs from November 30 to December 21, 2024, featuring local artisans and vendors offering a variety of locally-made goods, from crafts to seasonal treats. You are sure to find something unique for everyone on your list!
Blessing of the Hounds: A Historic Tradition
Held on Thanksgiving morning, the Blessing of the Hounds is a unique tradition in nearby Keswick. Hosted at Grace Episcopal Church, this fun Thanksgiving event features a blessing of hunting hounds, horses, and riders, all decked out in traditional attire. It’s an extraordinary opportunity to witness the pageantry and rich history of the region, set against the backdrop of Keswick’s beautiful countryside. The event is family-friendly and open to all who wish to experience this historic tradition.
Holiday Parades and Festive Tree Lightings
Thanksgiving weekend is also when Charlottesville begins its transformation into a winter wonderland, with holiday parades and tree lightings lighting up the town. The Charlottesville Grand Illumination is hed at Ting Pavillion on the Downtown Mall and is a popular Thankagiving weekend event. This event features live music, food vendors, and the ceremonial lighting of the community tree, marking the official start of the holiday season.
While there isn’t a traditional Thanksgiving parade, the Barracks Road Shopping Center often hosts a festive holiday parade featuring Santa’s arrival, live music, student groups, a marching band and special promotions, typically occurring just after Thanksgiving. Get more details in our Guide to Christmas events.
Pick Out Your Christmas Tree at a Local Farm
Make the Thanksgiving weekend even more memorable by visiting a local Christmas tree farm to pick out the perfect tree for your home. In the Charlottesville area, you’ll find several beautiful farms offering fresh-cut trees, hot cocoa, and family photo ops. Places like Foxfire Christmas Tree Farm and Claybrook Farms provide a cozy, traditional experience for families to select their Christmas trees. For more details on local Christmas tree farms, check out our guide to Christmas tree farms in Charlottesville.
Enjoy A Thanksgiving Feast at a Restaurant
Celebrating Thanksgiving at a restaurant in Charlottesville can be a delightful way for families to enjoy the holiday without the stress of cooking and cleaning. Several local establishments are offering special Thanksgiving meals in 2024, providing a variety of options to suit different tastes. Reservations are highly recommended. Here are some family-friendly restaurants hosting Thanksgiving events this year:
• Clifton Inn
• Birch & Bloom at The Forum
• The Ridley
• Ivy Inn
• Blue Ridge Cafe
• Prospect Hill Inn & Restaurant
• Bavarian Chef
• Michie Tavern
• Maya
• The Mill Room at Boar’s Head Resort
• Marigold by Jean Georges at Keswick Hall
Looking Ahead: Christmas Events in Charlottesville
After Thanksgiving, Charlottesville is brimming with festive activities leading up to Christmas. From lights displays to holiday concerts and seasonal performances, there’s no shortage of family-friendly events to keep the holiday cheer alive. Be sure to explore our Christmas Events in Charlottesville guide to plan the perfect holiday outings.
This Thanksgiving season, embrace Charlottesville’s rich traditions, and make memories with loved ones as you take part in the community’s festive offerings. We also encourage everyone to take the opportunity to think about how you may ant to help others and considering volunteering as a family. Whether you’re watching the Blessing of the Hounds, enjoying a holiday market, or selecting a Christmas tree, these experiences are bound to become part of your family’s cherished holiday memories.
