Thanksgiving events in Charlottesville bring 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. All of them can add warmth and excitement to your family’s celebrations!
Let’s dive into some beloved Thanksgiving and early holiday traditions in the Charlottesville area.
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 a popular Thursday race. The race starts and finishes near Albemarle High School. It offers a scenic route through surrounding neighborhoods. Registration includes a soft technical race t-shirt. Proceeds benefit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry. Find all the details including registration, start times and course highlights in our comprehensive Turkey Trot and Holiday Race Guide, updated each year,
Another popular Thanksgiving event is the Boar’s Head Turkey Trot 5K, also taking place on Thanksgiving. 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. Proceeds benefit UVA Health Children’s.
For those west of town, the Waynesboro Turkey Trot in on Thanksgiving day and a charming local event with levels of races for youth and small kids. Proceeds go to the Waynesboro Family YMCA.
If you’re interested in a race during Thanksgiving week, but are busy Thanksgiving Day itself, then the North Garden 5K might be up your alley. It takes place on Sunday and follows along the scenic Edge Valley Road. Funds raised go to Red Hill Elementary and the North Garden Fire Department.
Registration is required for all events prior to race day.
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 29 to December 20, 2025, 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 Thanksgiving event takes place during their 10:00 AM service on November 27, and 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.
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:
• Birch & Bloom at The Forum
• The Ridley
• Ivy Inn
• Blue Ridge Cafe
• Bavarian Chef
• Michie Tavern
• Maya
• The Mill Room at Boar’s Head Resort
• Marigold by Jean Georges at Keswick Hall
Enjoy A Thanksgiving Feast at Home (But From A Restaurant)
One of the advantages of having Thanksgiving in Charlottesville, is that there are so many options for people who are hosting dinner but don’t want to cook. Whether you are supplementing part of your meal, bringing something to someone else’s house, or catering your whole meal, you’re sure to find some delicious and easy food for your Thanksgiving table. Here are some local restaurants offering Thanksgiving to-go dinners.
• Al Carbon
• Botanical Fare (Vegan)
• BBQ Exchange
• Bizou/Cville Supper Club
• CATEC High School
• Crozet Seafood Supply
• Feast
• Maya
• Plenty Cville
Have Your Pie and Eat It Too
Whether you’re a fan of pumpkin pie or not, Charlottesville bakeries have so many specials for Thanksgiving desserts. Check out these local favorites. Remember that bakeries stop taking Thanksgiving orders early, so order ahead!
• Albemarle Baking Company
• Carter Mountain Orchard (Pies)
• Cou Cou Rachou
• MarieBette Bakery
• Sugar Bear/The Pie Guy/Chanterelle Cafe (Pop-Up)
Get Away for the Weekend
If you are looking for a close-by getaway during Thanksgiving week, Massanutten Resort is a great option! The mountains are beautiful in late November, so whether you’re looking for a cozy rural get away or some kid-friendly fun at their indoor water park, Thanksgiving at Massanutten is a vacation for the whole family. Go for the whole holiday, or plan a retreat before or after the big day. They are still offering fall lodging packages through the month of November to help make your stay more affordable and fun.
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, and festivities lighting up the town.
While there isn’t a traditional Thanksgiving parade, the Barracks Road Shopping Center hosts a festive holiday parade on Saturday, November 29 at 9:30 AM featuring Santa’s arrival, live music, student groups, a marching band and special promotions. Get more details in our Guide to Christmas events.
Magic on the Mall begins the weekend before Thanksgiving and goes throughout December, offering the popular Peppermint Trail, free kiddie train rides on the mall, window displays, and more. The Charlottesville Grand Illumination is held at Ting Pavilion on Friday, December 5. This event features live music, food vendors, and the ceremonial lighting of the community tree, marking the official start of the holiday season.
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.
Looking Ahead: More 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. There are so many ways to make Thanksgiving week a fun one for the whole family. Be sure to check out our guide for Days-Off Camps (handy during school breaks!). We also encourage everyone to take the opportunity to think about how you may want to help others and consider 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.