Thanksgiving marks an exciting time of year with the anticipation of the holiday season on the horizon and celebrations with friends and family. This November, gather your loved ones for a beachside Turkey Day in the New Smyrna Beach Area and relax with sunny days, mild temperatures, festive events and, of course, a delectable array of options for a memorable Thanksgiving feast with the whole family.
Family-Friendly Festivities
From live music to kids’ camps to outdoor activities, the fun never slows down in the New Smyrna Beach Area. At the beginning of Thanksgiving Week, parents can take a break for themselves and send the little ones on an unforgettable adventure with the team at the Marine Discovery Center. At the Thanksgiving Break Holiday Camp on November 21 and 22, kids ages 5-12 can spend time learning about the Indian River Lagoon with crafts, nature walks, fishing and kayaking excursions and trips on the pontoon boat.
Later in the week, the whole family can enjoy fun in the sun at the annual Thanksgiving Gobble Wobble 5K, right on the beach! On Thanksgiving morning, visitors and locals can get a head start at burning off their Turkey Day treats with a short walk, jog or run on the gorgeous white sand shores. This beloved tradition is a great way to get outside with loved ones and kick off the holiday with stunning ocean views and a post-race celebration at Flagler Tavern.
After a day of feasting and festivities, head to the Canal Street Historic District for a dose of holiday cheer at Spark the Spirit on Friday, November 24. The iconic Canal Street will close to vehicle traffic so that pedestrians can meander through the shops and restaurants before heading to Christmas Park for the annual Tree Lighting, live music and Santa’s grand appearance.
Coastal Cuisine and Thanksgiving Feasts
The New Smyrna Beach Area’s thriving culinary scene offers a host of restaurants serving up Thanksgiving fare that make gathering for the annual feast a breeze. Start the party early with a Thanksgiving Eve Bash at Fysh Bar & Grill in Port Orange, where a live band, drink specials and late-night bites kick off the holiday on Wednesday, November 22. On Thanksgiving Day, longtime local favorite The Garlic will serve a family-style dinner with traditional dishes like turkey, stuffing, yams and green beans alongside the regular Tuscan-inspired menu. At CorkScrew Bar and Grille on Canal Street, expect a bill of fare including holiday classics, drink specials, fresh seafood and more. Other restaurants open for Thanksgiving Day include Limoncello, Flagler Tavern, The River Deck, Riverpark Terrace, The Grille at Riverview, Norwood’s Treehouse and more.
Cozy Accommodations
Find your home away from home and soak in seaside views with accommodations that keep the whole group together. Multi-generational rental homes, plush B&Bs and pet-friendly stays are ready to host you and your loved ones for an extra special Thanksgiving getaway. Large families will love the spacious options with Ocean Properties Vacation Rentals, many of which offer oceanfront views and are four-legged family member-approved. Joy by the Sea hosts guests at a grand beachfront home as well as six self-contained villas which add privacy while keeping the family close. For a more intimate experience, look to cozy B&Bs like the Black Dolphin Inn, Victoria 1883 and Night Swan Intracoastal Bed and Breakfast.
Explore all the festive events, dining options and accommodations and start planning an unforgettable Thanksgiving vacation at www.visitnsbfl.com.
