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Thanksgiving in West Michigan // 2023

Looking for something unique to do for Thanksgiving? Find family getaways, turkey dinners, and unique events to help celebrate and kick off the holiday season.

South West Michigan

Explore the charming cottages and lakeside luxury rentals in Saugatuck/Douglas. After Thanksgiving, indulge in holiday shopping on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday amidst the twinkling lights of the festive downtown. Kickstart the Christmas season with the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 24th in downtown Saugatuck. And make sure to take advantage of the First Annual Turkey Trot 5K on November 18 for turkey-themed fun. 

 

Join Vineyard 2121 on November 24th for the Red and White Sale. Enjoy a delightful evening of music every Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. It’s the perfect opportunity to find your favorite reds and whites while soaking in the soothing sounds.

 

What goes well with wine and hard cider for the holidays? Pie! Crane’s Pie Pantry in Fennville is the perfect place to get a fresh pie for your Thanksgiving meal. Order your Thanksgiving pies online or by calling 269-561-2297.

 

Central West Michigan

Enjoy Small Business Saturday on November 25th, this Thanksgiving weekend, right in the heart of Downtown Ludington. Kick off the holiday shopping season with exclusive steals and deals available for that particular weekend.  As you stroll through the beautifully decorated city, you’ll find remarkable special offers you won’t want to miss. This event coincides with the 6 p.m. Aglow on the Avenue Parade and the 7 p.m. holiday tree lighting, making it the perfect way to embrace the festive spirit.

Are you ready to enjoy a stress-free Thanksgiving feast? Indulge in all your holiday favorites, including roasted turkey, carved beef and ham, salads, side dishes, desserts, and more, for a  Thanksgiving Buffet on Thursday, November 23rd, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The participating restaurants include Boatwerks, Cork Wine & Grille, FireRock Grille, Lake Bluff Grille, RedRock Grille, Reds at Thousand Oaks, and Rush Creek Bistro. Pricing is $39 for adults, $16 for children from 5-12, and free for children under 4. Secure your spot by contacting your chosen restaurant for reservation availability, as space is limited. 

 

Looking to truly experience the harvest? Consider booking a full facility tour of IndiGrow to see the fall harvest in the most unique way- with cannabis. This immersive experience will take you through the ins and outs of the commercial cannabis industry. Touring the facility from seed to sale, you’ll get to interact with growing plants, view the lab, and get the lowdown on how our full suite of products are created. It is a fun and educational way to enjoy a new perspective on fall colors without enduring the cold weather. 

Northern & Upper Peninsula

With its scenic beauty and outdoor activities, Marquette County is the perfect November getaway. As the summer crowds subside, it offers peaceful hikes, strolls, and privacy to enjoy Lake Superior’s beauty and hunt for the Northern Lights. This family-friendly destination combines tranquility, diverse activities, great food, and stunning views, making it an ideal spot for a Thanksgiving getaway.

Join Shanty Creek Resort for a memorable Thanksgiving celebration! Choose from the festive buffet at The Lakeview Restaurant or our convenient Turkeys To-Go. Indulge in classic dishes on November 23, with orders serving 10-12 people available until November 21. Extend your stay for ski events: the winter season kickoff at Ivan’s on Friday and the Antrim Ski Academy Swap on Saturday; if the weather’s right, hit the Schuss Mountain slopes! Turn Thanksgiving into a getaway at the 5,500-acre Northern Michigan haven.

Gather at the Inn at Bay Harbor with your loved ones this Thanksgiving for beautiful lake views, an expansive staff-served buffet with all the traditional trimmings, and much more. Whether visiting northern Michigan or living locally, reserve your Thanksgiving To-Go early and bring a full feast back to the family. Call 231.439.4117 to reserve and arrange pick up.

 

Celebrate Thanksgiving in style at Hotel Walloon! Enjoy a warm and inviting holiday experience. The picturesque surroundings and luxurious accommodations set the stage for a memorable Thanksgiving getaway. From a sumptuous Thanksgiving dinner to cozy evenings by the fire, make this holiday special with us at Hotel Walloon. Come together and create cherished memories with your loved ones in a setting that exudes comfort and elegance.

To enjoy a family getaway in Traverse City, run the 5K Turkey Vulture Trot presented by Crystal Mountain on November 23rd. The race features a 5k and 1-mile Fun Run! 

Join Crystal Mountain for a Thanksgiving Reconnect weekend! Order a Thanksgiving Take & Bake before November 21st  and make your reservation at the Wild Tomato for the Thanksgiving Buffet on Nov. 23! The holiday festivities kick off Friday, November 24, with the First Lighting of the holiday tree at 5:30 and the Holiday Trail Celebration immediately following, featuring retail specials, samples, and more. Archery, laser tag, and horse-drawn surrey rides continue on Saturday, Nov. 25. 

Get ready to gobble ’til you wobble with the Terrace Inn’s Thanksgiving Package! For just $319, you and a loved one can enjoy a 2-night stay at a cozy retreat on November 23rd and 24th. A Thanksgiving dinner for two will be provided on the 23rd. Snuggle up in the comfy Standard Rooms, or treat yourselves to an upgrade for a little extra luxury. It’s a two-night Thanksgiving getaway you won’t want to miss! 

 

Join Treetops Resort in Gaylord for a legendary Thanksgiving Eve bash at Legends Restaurant! Join Treetops Resort for a spectacular evening filled with handcrafted cocktails, craft brews, and breathtaking views. It’s the ultimate way to kick off the Thanksgiving holiday weekend in style!