Aside from the classic turkey dinner, Thanksgiving in the USA comes with a host of beloved traditions, from all-day football games to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.
There are a number of other regional celebrations that take a unique stance on this American holiday. Read on for our list of the best Thanksgiving traditions around the country.
The Presidential Turkey Pardoning, Washington, DC
Live turkeys have been presented to American presidents since the 19th-century, but the tradition of fowl pardoning first arose in 1947, when President Harry Truman spared his gobbler’s life.
Watch President Obama’s pardoning of the turkey this year at the White House on 27th November.
Celebrations in Plymouth, Massachusetts
History buffs can journey to the coastal town of Plymouth, where the early 17th-century English colonists landed and where Thanksgiving’s origins lie.
Enjoy a parade, food festival, and trip to Plimoth Plantation, where the pilgrims and Wampanoag natives are said to have shared their first feast.
Las Vegas Great Turkey Trot, Nevada
Burn off those feast calories while making the most of the holiday’s charitable aspect by taking part in the 33rd annual Turkey Trot.
Runners can complete different circuits, from a 1k stroll to a 12k run along Lake Mead. Those not in Las Vegas can also look out for other local installments of this fun run.
Thanksgiving Buffet in Zion National Park, Utah
While many National Parks shut for the holiday, Zion opens its proverbial doors for an all-day Thanksgiving Buffet at the Zion Lodge.
It also offers an unforgettable post-feast workout with a hike up to the Emerald Pools or Angel’s Landing.
Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade, Pennsylvania
The 1.4-mile Philadelphia parade is the oldest in the country (yes, older than Macy’s).
2013 will be the 94th year that the city’s streets make way for floats, balloons, performers, marching bands and many celebratory folk.
Skiing Thanksgiving at Keystone, Colorado
For many Mountain State residents, Thanksgiving means the start of ski season. Keystone in Colorado hosts a special Thanksgiving-themed annual festival, comprising a carnival and all sorts of activities, like ice-skating and snow tubing.
Try an alternative Turkey Day meal on the resort’s wagon ride dinner.
Pie Times at Hoosier Mama Pie Shop, Illinois
If Thanksgiving is more about the pie than the turkey for you, Hoosier Mama Pie Shop should be your pilgrimage point.
The bakery is a favourite amongst Chicago denizens, and attracts pie hounds from far and wide. Try one of the six sweet pies on offer, including real-cream-infused pumpkin pie and lemon chess pie.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas
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