Giving Thanks Across the USA
Posted by Nautical Wood Maps on 7th Nov 2019
Where are you planning on giving thanks this year? Many of us have our strong family traditions that we gather to observe each Thanksgiving, but who’s to say those traditions can’t take place in a new locale? We thought it would be fun to highlight some of the best places to celebrate Thanksgiving across the country. Whether you stay where you are, or choose to venture somewhere new, it’s sure to be a fantastic feast!
Duh! What better place to plan to celebrate than where the Mayflower made its first landfall? Every year on the night before Thanksgiving there is a huge celebration at the monument erected in honor of that landing. You can even book a ride aboard the Train to Christmas Town where you and your family will hop aboard, drink hot cocoa, eat cookies, and meet Santa!
If you’re looking to escape the cold, then look no further than beautiful Miami Beach. You likely won’t even need a jacket if you choose to head south for the holiday. Miami Beach is a hub to a diverse and flavorful food scene and more shopping than you can shake a stick at, making it a must for all Black Friday deal hunters!
Maybe you want that big city feel, but not quite as big and busy as New York. Chicago is the perfect big-little city for you; they have their own parade with all that you would expect of a thanksgiving day march and the world famous Magnificent Mile is lined with excellent shopping and food. If you’re looking for a traditional German affair, the annual Chriskindlmarket is unmissable, stuffed with beer vendors, brats, hand-made ornaments, and other artisanal goods.
Santa Barbara is bloody gorgeous this time of year. The weather is so temperate you can do just about anything in a place where great food and fine wine are celebrated like the gifts they truly are! For the adults-only version, head out for a wine tour (or two) and drop by a lauded restaurant for a delicious thanksgiving dinner. If it’s a family affair you’re after, head to the annual Santa Barbara Pumpkin Smash at the Santa Barbara Zoo where the keepers give all the animals a bunch of pumpkins to play with and, well, smash!
Okay, so unless you already live on Oahu, this one might be a bit of a splurge, but what better time of year to splurge?! You can pay thanks and homage at the Pearl Harbor Memorial, visit the pristine Iolani Palace and other museums, snorkel without all the crowds, attend the annual Waikiki Holiday Parade, sand sculptures at the Sheraton Waikiki, or take in the awesome sights of the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing on the North Shore. There’s literally something for everyone and yes, aloha shirts are mandatory. We don’t make the rules.
3D Wood Chart Thanksgiving Destination - Cape Cod, Miami, Oahu | Nautical Wood Maps