10 Fun Things To Do In Orlando For Thanksgiving

Gobble, gobble, it's that time of the year again! Thanksgiving Day is right around the corner and it's time to start planning some fun activities with your family and friends. If you're looking for a unique way to celebrate the holiday, look no further than Orlando, the home of world-renowned theme parks and attractions. From thrilling rides to festive events, Orlando has everything you need to make this Thanksgiving Day unforgettable. And to help you get started, we've compiled a list of 10 fun things to do in Orlando for Thanksgiving. So grab your turkey hats and let's get ready to explore the Magic City!

Enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner at The Capital Grille

As Thanksgiving approaches, many families plan trips to spend the festive day in Orlando. A city known for its beautiful weather, amazing attractions, and vibrant culinary scene, it offers countless options for celebrating the holiday. While many visitors may choose to have Thanksgiving dinner at home or with their loved ones, there's a place that offers a traditional holiday meal catered to your taste buds. That's right; we're talking about The Capital Grille.

Known for its sophisticated atmosphere and delicious steak, the Capital Grille is a popular restaurant with an extensive menu with lots of options for your traditional Thanksgiving meal. Their menu is composed of different appetizers, entrées, and side dishes that ensure you have the ultimate Thanksgiving experience.

The Thanksgiving dinner at the Capital Grille is available all day long, and you can either opt for a dine-in experience or pick up to enjoy in your home. The restaurant's chefs prepare the annual favorite meal with all the trimmings, making sure meals are enjoyable for the whole family.

For an appetizer, guests get a choice of lobster bisque or clam chowder. It is then followed by the main course, which includes roasted and carved turkey, along with brioche stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green beans with almonds. You also get to choose between cranberry sauce or gravy, both of which come in impressive flavors. For dessert, guests may choose from a selection which includes pumpkin or pecan pie.

However, if turkey is not your meal of choice, you can choose from their varied à la carte menu, which features other proteins like filet mignon, salmon, and lobster.

Without a doubt, The Capital Grille provides orlando visitors with a fantastic traditional holiday dining experience. So, whether you're seeking a break from cooking a home-cooked meal, entertaining out-of-town family, The Capital Grille is highly recommended.

Watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade at Universal Studios

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to have a great time with your family, and Orlando is one of the best destinations to visit during the holiday. Apart from the sunny weather and entertaining attractions, you can also witness the renowned Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade at Universal Studios. This enchanting parade has been a famous event in New York City for almost a hundred years, and now, it has found a new home at Universal Studios.

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade has been an annual tradition since 1924, and it is a fantastic event that's enjoyed across the United States. However, now that the parade has found its way to Florida, visitors can experience the best of both worlds. The parade is a perfect chance to celebrate the holiday season with your family, and be a part of a larger community.

This parade is full of larger-than-life characters, and you can catch a glimpse of popular characters from movies like Despicable Me, Shrek, and Madagascar. You can also see towering balloons shaped like some of your favorite characters, including Pikachu, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Olaf. There’s so much to see along the parade route, including all new floats and entertainment that will amaze the young and old alike.

Universal Studios is one of the most visited theme parks in the world, and during Thanksgiving, visitors can also enjoy various holiday-themed events at the park. These events include Christmas light displays, Christmas music, and special holiday foods. The park is a great place to celebrate the season with your family and friends.

In conclusion, Orlando is an excellent destination to spend your Thanksgiving holiday, and witnessing the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade at Universal Studios is an event that you should not miss. Make sure to bring your loved ones and create lasting memories that you will cherish for years to come.

Attend the Orlando Turkey Trot 5K

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, eat delicious food, and give thanks for all the blessings in life. If you're considering spending Thanksgiving in Orlando, you're in for a treat! Not only does Orlando offer a plethora of dining options for a traditional Thanksgiving feast, but it also hosts the famous Orlando Turkey Trot 5K.

The Orlando Turkey Trot 5K is a Thanksgiving Day morning tradition beloved by locals and visitors alike. This family-friendly event takes place at Lake Eola Park, where thousands of runners and walkers of all ages and levels come together to burn some calories before indulging in a hearty Thanksgiving meal.

The 5K course starts and finishes at Lake Eola and takes participants through scenic downtown Orlando. Along the way, runners and walkers can take in stunning views of the city's skyscrapers and historic landmarks, such as the Orlando City Hall and the Orange County Regional History Center.

The Orlando Turkey Trot 5K offers something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned runner looking to set a personal record or a first-timer wanting to enjoy a leisurely walk with friends and family. The event also features a Tot Trot for little ones and a Gobblerthon for those who want to run a shorter distance.

In addition to the race, participants can also enjoy a post-race party with vendors, food trucks, and live music. There's even a costume contest for those who want to get into the Thanksgiving spirit and dress up in their best turkey or pilgrim attire.

The best part about the Orlando Turkey Trot 5K is that it supports a good cause. Proceeds from the event benefit the Seniors First charity, which provides critical services and resources to older adults in Central Florida.

So, if you're spending Thanksgiving in Orlando and want to start your day with some fun and fitness, sign up for the Orlando Turkey Trot 5K. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a first-timer, this beloved event is sure to make your Thanksgiving holiday a memorable one.

Explore the holiday-themed attractions at Walt Disney World

Thanksgiving is a time when families come together to celebrate and give thanks for all that they have. Orlando is a perfect destination for this occasion as it offers a plethora of holiday-themed attractions, and the highlight of them all is Walt Disney World.

Walt Disney World is a magical place, especially during Thanksgiving when the park is adorned with festive decorations and offers various events and activities to entertain visitors of all ages. Here, are some of the holiday-themed attractions that you should not miss if you are in Orlando for Thanksgiving:

• Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party- This is a must-attend event for anyone visiting Disney World during the holidays. It features a parade, fireworks, complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, and exclusive access to some of the park's popular rides.
• Festival of the Holidays- If experiencing different cultures is your thing, the Festival of the Holidays at Epcot is ideal for you. This event showcases the traditions and customs of different countries with festive entertainment, food, and drinks.
• Be Our Guest Restaurant- Known for its delicious Thanksgiving traditional fare, the Be Our Guest restaurant is a must-visit for those who want to dine in style with their families.
• The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights- This is a magnificent display of millions of Christmas lights that are synchronized with music, creating a magical atmosphere that will leave you in awe.
• Candlelight Processional- This event is held at Epcot, and it tells the story of Christmas with a choir and a live orchestra. Celebrity narrators, including Neil Patrick Harris and Whoopi Goldberg, lend their voices to the show, making it an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, Thanksgiving is a great time to visit Orlando, and Walt Disney World's holiday-themed attractions are sure to make it an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones. Don't forget to book your tickets in advance and prepare to be mesmerized by the magical atmosphere that only Disney can create.

Join a Friendsgiving celebration at The Alfond Inn

Orlando is one of the best places to be during Thanksgiving holiday. It offers a variety of options for visitors like theme parks, shopping, dining, and entertainment. However, if you're looking for a unique and memorable Thanksgiving celebration, The Alfond Inn is the perfect place to be. This luxurious boutique hotel located in Winter Park offers a Friendsgiving experience that you won't forget.

Friendsgiving is the newest holiday tradition where friends come together and celebrate Thanksgiving without the family. The Alfond Inn's Friendsgiving celebration is a perfect blend of elegance, luxury, and warmth that makes for an unforgettable experience. The event is held on the day before Thanksgiving, and it's open to hotel guests, locals, and visitors.

The event features an extravagant feast with a delicious menu that includes traditional Thanksgiving dishes like roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. The food is prepared by award-winning chefs who take pride in sourcing the freshest ingredients from local farmers and producers. Guests can also enjoy a wide selection of wine, beer, and other beverages that perfectly complement the meal.

What makes The Alfond Inn's Friendsgiving celebration unique is the sense of community and togetherness that it fosters. Guests can socialize and mingle with each other while enjoying their meals. The hotel staff also actively participates in the event, making sure that everyone feels welcome and comfortable.

Apart from the sumptuous meal and the warm atmosphere, The Alfond Inn is set in a picturesque location that offers a breathtaking view of the nearby lake and park. Guests can take a leisurely walk around the area, take pictures, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a memorable Thanksgiving experience, The Alfond Inn's Friendsgiving celebration is the place to be. The event offers a unique and luxurious way to celebrate with friends and loved ones, and it's an excellent alternative to the traditional family gathering. So pack your bags, head to Orlando and join The Alfond Inn's Friendsgiving celebration for a Thanksgiving experience you won't forget.

Catch a Thanksgiving Day football game at ESPN Wide World of Sports

Orlando is a great place to spend Thanksgiving with your loved ones. With the sun shining all year round, you can get away from the cold weather and enjoy some outdoor activities. One such activity that you shouldn't miss out on is catching a Thanksgiving Day football game at ESPN Wide World of Sports.

ESPN Wide World of Sports is an top-notch sporting facility that hosts various sports events throughout the year. This year, they will be hosting a Thanksgiving Day football game that promises to be a great experience for everyone involved. The game will feature two high school teams playing against each other for bragging rights and a chance at a championship.

The game will start early in the afternoon and will be played on one of ESPN's quality fields. This means you can expect a high level of play and a great atmosphere for everyone involved. Whether you're an avid football fan or just someone looking to catch a great game, this Thanksgiving Day football game at ESPN Wide World of Sports is sure to be a hit.

Apart from the game itself, ESPN Wide World of Sports has plenty of other activities for you to enjoy during your visit. You can take a self-guided tour of the entire facility and learn about the history of the place. You can also catch a few other sporting events that may be taking place that day, such as basketball or soccer matches.

There are also plenty of food and drink options available to keep you satisfied throughout the day. The ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill is a great place to grab a bite to eat before or after the game. If you're looking for something more upscale, you can head to one of the many restaurants that are located within the Walt Disney World Resort.

In conclusion, Orlando is a great place to spend Thanksgiving with your loved ones, and catching a Thanksgiving Day football game at ESPN Wide World of Sports is a great way to create some unforgettable memories. Make sure you plan ahead and purchase your tickets early to ensure you don't miss out on the game. With plenty of other activities to enjoy and great food and drink options available, your visit to ESPN Wide World of Sports is sure to be a hit.

Visit the Thanksgiving-themed weekend at SeaWorld Orlando

Thanksgiving is a time to be with family and friends, giving thanks for all the blessings in our lives. If you are looking for something special to do during this time in Orlando, then why not visit the Thanksgiving-themed weekend at SeaWorld Orlando? This is a fun-filled event that offers something for everyone in the family. Read on to find out more about what you can expect.

The Thanksgiving-themed weekend at SeaWorld Orlando is a perfect way to celebrate the holiday. Here you can experience the wonder of marine life while enjoying traditional Thanksgiving treats. Some of the highlights of this event include live music, delicious food, and holiday-themed shows.

The event runs from November 20–29, 2021, so you have plenty of time to plan your visit. During this time, you can enjoy exciting attractions like Mako, Kraken, and Infinity Falls during the day, and relax to the sounds of live music from local musicians in the evening. Then at night, you can enjoy a magnificent fireworks display before heading back to your accommodations.

The SeaWorld Orlando culinary team serves up special Thanksgiving dishes that will leave your taste buds yearning for more. Enjoy traditional holiday treats like turkey dinner, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. And if you're looking for something a little different, there are several other options available to suit your tastes. You'll also find drinks and snacks available all around the park.

Another highlight of the Thanksgiving-themed weekend at SeaWorld Orlando is the holiday-themed shows. You'll be able to experience the Sea Lion High: The Christmas Special, where sea lions and otters put on an unforgettable show. You can also watch the Sesame Street Christmas Parade, where your favorite characters like Elmo and Cookie Monster march down the streets of Sesame Street. These shows are sure to delight children and adults alike.

In summation, if you're looking for a fun-filled way to celebrate Thanksgiving in Orlando, then the Thanksgiving-themed weekend at SeaWorld Orlando is a must-visit event. Here you can enjoy food, music, fireworks, and an array of exciting attractions. You'll also have the chance to enjoy holiday-themed shows that are sure to impress. Whether you visit with family or friends, the SeaWorld Orlando's Thanksgiving event is an excellent way to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Shop for Thanksgiving treats at the Winter Park Farmers Market

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks, spend time with loved ones, and indulge in some delicious food. And what better way to prepare for this special occasion than by visiting the Winter Park Farmers Market in Orlando?

Located just a few miles from downtown Orlando, the Winter Park Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh, locally sourced produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. This makes it the perfect destination for anyone looking to create a memorable Thanksgiving feast for their family and friends.

One of the main reasons to visit the Winter Park Farmers Market for Thanksgiving is the sheer variety of goods on offer. Here you'll find everything from pumpkins and sweet potatoes to turkey and ham, as well as artisanal breads, pies, and other baked treats.

One of the highlights of the Farmers Market is its emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients. Many of the vendors are passionate about organic, non-GMO produce, and they go out of their way to ensure that their foods are free from harmful additives or chemicals. This means that you can feel good about serving your loved ones wholesome, nourishing meals that are both delicious and nutritious.

Another advantage of shopping at the Winter Park Farmers Market is the chance to meet the vendors and learn more about their products. Many of them are eager to share tips and recipes on how to prepare and cook their goods, and they can offer valuable insights on the best ways to create a memorable Thanksgiving dinner.

So, whether you're looking for fresh, locally-sourced ingredients or simply want to experience the community spirit of the Winter Park Farmers Market, it's a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Orlando over the Thanksgiving period. So why not make a trip to this market, and give your loved ones a Thanksgiving feast that they will remember for years to come?

Take a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful Orlando scenery

Thanksgiving is a time to spend with loved ones and partake in delicious meals, but it can also be a time for adventure and exploration. Orlando, Florida is the perfect destination for both thanks to its beautiful scenery and endless activities. One unique way to experience the beauty of Orlando is by taking a hot air balloon ride.

As you soar through the sky, you'll be able to take in the stunning views of Orlando's natural beauty. From the lush greenery to the sparkling waters, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. The ride typically lasts about an hour and takes you on a tour of the area, giving you a once-in-a-lifetime view of Orlando.

Whether you're a Florida native or are visiting for the first time, the hot air balloon ride is sure to create lasting memories. The ride is also great for families and groups, as it can accommodate up to 16 people depending on the size of the balloon.

If you're looking to experience Orlando in a unique and exciting way, a hot air balloon ride is not to be missed. Be sure to book in advance, as this is a popular activity during the holiday season.

Relax and enjoy a staycation at a luxurious Orlando resort

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it's the perfect time to plan a relaxing staycation at a luxurious Orlando resort. Whether you're looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holidays or want to treat yourself to a well-deserved vacation, Orlando has plenty to offer.

Orlando is home to some of the most lavish resorts in the country, and they are an excellent option for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy the holidays with family or friends. From luxurious rooms and suites to fantastic restaurants and spas, these resorts are the epitome of comfort and indulgence.

One of the best things about staying at a resort in Orlando for Thanksgiving is that you don't have to worry about cooking, cleaning, or doing anything else. Instead, you can sit back, relax, and let the resort's staff take care of everything for you. Many resorts offer special Thanksgiving menus and events, so you can still enjoy the traditional holiday feast without any of the work.

If you're looking to be active during your staycation, Orlando has plenty of options. You can play a round of golf on one of the many championship courses, take a dip in the pool, or work out in the resort's fitness center. For those who want to take things at a more leisurely pace, many resorts also offer yoga and meditation classes, as well as spa treatments that are sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Orlando is also home to some of the best theme parks in the world, which can be an excellent way to spend the Thanksgiving holiday. Whether you're a fan of Disney, Universal, or SeaWorld, there is something for everyone. The parks are typically less crowded during the holidays, so you can enjoy shorter lines and more relaxed atmosphere.

Overall, a Thanksgiving staycation in Orlando is an excellent way to relax, unwind, and enjoy the holidays with your loved ones. With luxurious resorts, fabulous dining options, plenty of activities, and exciting theme parks, there is no shortage of things to do and see. So why not treat yourself to a well-deserved break and make this Thanksgiving one to remember in Orlando?

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