Things To Do in LA Around Thanksgiving: Events and Attractions

Thanksgiving is a time of togetherness and gratitude, one of those cozy seasons when pumpkin pies bake, sweaters come out, and cold winds roll in. In 2025, the holiday falls on Thursday, November 27, landing right in the middle of the year’s chilliest stretch. As temperatures drop across the Northeast and Midwest, many families trade icy sidewalks for sunshine - and California becomes one of the most popular escape routes. Travelers from New York, Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, and Pennsylvania often head west (or south) when the cold hits, joining the large flow of Americans who leave snow-prone states in favor of warmer regions during late fall.

And while California’s late-November rainy season can bring some showers, the state’s mild temperatures and bright coastlines still feel like a warm welcome compared to freezing winds back east - meaning you can truly enjoy your Thanksgiving celebrations without bundling up like it’s a snowstorm.

Universal Studios Adventures

Universal Studios Hollywood is wide open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM - because who says turkey should have all the fun? Instead of mashed potatoes, you can mash through cinematic adventures, meet your favorite characters. Of course, there’s no full-blown Thanksgiving parade here, but early hints of holiday cheer- garlands, snowflakes, and even a dash of Grinchmas make the park feel ready for December.

Thanksgiving crowds aren’t too terrifying - average waits hover around 40 minutes - so rise early, grab an Express Pass, and ride like a pro. Hungry? Some table-service restaurants accept reservations, while quick bites like The Three Broomsticks are first-come, first-served. Don’t miss the seasonal goodies: Grinch-themed donuts, hot Butterbeer, and holiday cocktails that scream, “I’m on vacation and I deserve this!” And when you need a breather from adrenaline, take a stroll outside the park: The Grove’s holiday shopping, outdoor ice rinks, Venice Beach boardwalk, or a golden Malibu sunset make perfect post-ride relaxers. Thanksgiving at Universal is basically a two-for-one deal: thrills plus a sneak peek at the holiday magic, without the stress of long lines or holiday chaos. 

A Fairytale Feast: Disneyland Week

No place blends the warmth of Thanksgiving with Disney magic quite like Disneyland Resort in Anaheim. During Thanksgiving Week, the park transforms into a fairytale of twinkling lights, festive parades, and mouthwatering themed treats. The variety of dishes is incredible - from roasted turkey legs to Mickey-shaped beignets (and yes, a few extra calories - but don’t worry, “calories don’t count on Thanksgiving”). The best part? Disneyland is open on this special day, welcoming families with magical entertainment and festive cheer.

The worst part is that the park during Thanksgiving week is one of the most crowded and expensive times of the year. In fact, for the week of Thanksgiving, from November 24 to November 29, ticket prices rise from $199 to $224, according to Disney’s website.

Thanksgiving Day itself tends to be a bit less crowded than the surrounding days, giving you a chance to enjoy the park’s magical holiday spirit with just a little more breathing room. And if you’re planning to visit with children, whether from nearby or another state, and want to avoid long drives, we’ve put together a helpful guide to the closest airports to Disneyland so you can get there quickly, skip parking hassles, and start your holiday adventure stress-free.

Raise a Glass: Coastal Wine Tours to Be Thankful For

A Hausa Proverb once noted, “Give thanks for a little, and you will find a lot.” For adults and families with grown kids a coastal wine escape may become the perfect option. California’s wine country from Santa Barbara to Paso Robles and Temecula Valley offers cozy vineyards combined with ocean views and testing that turn every moment into a celebration of togetherness. Just imagine golden hills, a gentle Pacific breeze, and a picnic basket full of local cheese, fresh fruit, and gratitude.

Here is the list of top wine regions recommended for visiting:

• Napa Valley: Classic elegance and world-renowned Cabernet Sauvignons.
• Sonoma County: Family-run vineyards and cozy, countryside charm.
• Paso Robles: Sun-kissed rolling hills and boutique wineries.
• Santa Ynez Valley: Ideal for scenic drives and peaceful getaways.
• Temecula Valley: Close to LA and San Diego, perfect for a weekend retreat.

So, in case you are planning a wine tour during Thanksgiving week, you can skip the unnecessary stress of driving by renting a comfortable and luxurious private van. Transfers make it easy, safe, and comfortable to sip your way through California’s best vineyards.

Sun, Sand, and Fun: Santa Monica Pier Adventures

Imagine how you are enjoying beachside bliss when the tourist numbers drop and the vibe turns relaxed. Santa Monica in November is a perfect place to make that dream come true. Everything during this season is perfect: warm air, the sunsets turn the sky pink and gold creating a comfortable atmosphere for families craving fun and relaxation. You can spend your day in Santa Monica Pier, where kids can ride the Pacific Wheel, play arcade games and enjoy street performers who fill the boardwalk with energy and fun. As a bonus you can taste seasonal traits like caramel popcorn and warm churros. The Pier is open to the public daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, including holidays.

Run for a Cause: LA’s Marathons and Parade Cheer

If you are thinking that Thanksgiving is all about pies and parades, then we suggest you add running shoes to this list. The LA’s beloved Turkey Trot Race Day is not just a marathon, it's the official start of the Thanksgiving season. Every year this marathon units thousands of people in downtown LA for a joyful mix of fitness, community and gratitude.

The event runs for three festive days, November 22, November 26, and November 27 with designed courses for every age. Usually races start at 8:00 a.m at Grand Park circling through iconic downtown landmarks. Registration fees range from $45 - $77, mostly depending on the race category and include a finisher’s medal, event T-shirt and post-race snacks.

Turkey Trot Marathon

If you are looking for a fun Thanksgiving morning activity, then Van Nuys Turkey Trot is the best option for you. All the participants are allowed to choose from 5K (3.1 miles), 10K (6.2 miles), 15K (9.3 miles), or Half Marathon routes that wind through the scenic, tree-lined streets of Van Nuys.

The race starts at 7:30 a.m. on Thanksgiving day with registration fees at $40 for adults and $25 for kids. Open to both runners and walkers, it’s a fun, family-friendly way to stay active and enjoy the holiday spirit before sitting down to your Thanksgiving feast.

La Canada Thanksgiving Day Run

Another heartwarming event that you can catch on this day is Thanksgiving Run & Food Drive in La Canada. The event welcomes families with different start times 8:00 a.m. for adults and 9:00 a.m. for kids. By joining this event, you can add deeper meaning to the holiday by combining gratitude with generosity. 

And when your sneakers are off and your medals are shining, don’t miss the city’s grand finale: the Hollywood Christmas Parade, rolling down Hollywood Boulevard in late November. This star-studded spectacle marks LA’s magical handoff from Thanksgiving to Christmas, a reminder that in the City of Angels, the season of giving truly runs deep. 

Ocean Adventures: Holiday Fun at SeaWorld 

If your family is a big fan of marine life and outdoor shows, then SeaWorld San Diego is the ideal destination for you. The park is fully open on Thanksgiving Day and celebrates with dazzling sea life encounters, festive decorations, and themed treats that make the day unforgettable. 

While SeaWorld does attract more visitors during the Thanksgiving holiday, it’s generally less crowded than the days that follow, giving families the perfect balance between excitement and space to explore comfortably. 

Family Adventures At the San Diego Zoo

If you thought Thanksgiving was all about turkeys, wait until you meet the pandas, elephants, and flamingos at the San Diego Zoo. The zoo is open on Thanksgiving Day, welcoming visitors from across generations to explore nearly 3,500 animals along its lush shaded pathways. Thanksgiving here truly feels like a world tour in a single day - enhanced by seasonal décor and themed events that turn a regular visit into an unforgettable holiday adventure.

For families looking to make the day extra special, the zoo also offers a Thanksgiving Day Buffet in the Treetops Room (two seating: 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m.), priced at $85 for adults and $65 for children ages 3-11, including tax (zoo admission is required for non-members).

It rarely feels overwhelmingly crowded - especially if you arrive early in the day. After your visit, consider complementing it with a stroll through Balboa Park or a visit to Old Town San Diego to wrap up your Thanksgiving celebration in style.

Aquarium of the Pacific - Long Beach

Thanksgiving reminds us to pause and appreciate life’s simplest blessings. For a calm and family-friendly holiday, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is open Thursday, November 27, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Watch colorful sea creatures, learn about ocean conservation, and enjoy peaceful harbor views.

Don’t miss the Thanksgiving Feast on the Rooftop Veranda, with traditional favorites like herb-basted turkey, candied yams, and pumpkin desserts. Reservations run 10:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m., and tickets include Aquarium admission: $95 per adult, $72.50 per child ($70/$47.50 for members). It’s a relaxing yet memorable way to celebrate the holiday.

Thanksgiving in Long Beach offers more than just home-cooked turkey - this year, you can enjoy festive feasts without lifting a finger in the kitchen. From ocean-view buffets to elegant dining rooms and global flavors, the city’s top restaurants and cruises serve up memorable ways to give thanks. Whether you crave Mediterranean twists or classic holiday fare, Long Beach has plenty of options to make your Thanksgiving weekend delicious and stress-free.

The Spirit of Thanksgiving, California-Style

It does not matter which destination you choose, a Thanksgiving in California puts one thing above all - gratitude under the sun. Regardless of which entertainment you choose riding roller coasters, watching dolphins leap, or toasting at a vineyard. Each of the presented options is a reminder that the best holidays aren’t about where you are, but who you’re with.

So pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and celebrate Thanksgiving the California way with warmth, joy, and sunshine on your side.

Thankful, grateful, and oh so full!