While many are busy on Thanksgiving Day cooking mashed potatoes and green bean casserole, watching football, and spending time with the people that matter most, finding activities for the rest of Thanksgiving break can be difficult. Here are some exciting events happening locally during Thanksgiving break:
31st Annual Ashburn Farm Turkey Trot
Each year Crossroads United Methodist church holds a 2k, 5k, and 10k run on Thanksgiving Day titled the Turkey Trot in order to fundraise for local, regional, and international philanthropic efforts. This is the perfect way to start a day filled with good food and family time.
The run brings a lot of Thanksgiving spirit with many participants dressing up for the run in festive gear such as turkey hats, pie hats, and even turkey inflatable costumes.
Participants receive a shirt and custom bib after runners choose between the three race lengths. Registration for the Turkey Trot is open now and ends on Nov. 28 before the race. Runners can also register as a virtual participant, which allows them to participate anytime over Thanksgiving break and gives racers the opportunity to participate in the Thanksgiving Day Feast Challenge, which includes all three race lengths.
For those who would like to participate in the event but can not on Thanksgiving Day, there are also many volunteer opportunities in the days leading up to the event to help prepare for the fun. Volunteers help to set up for the race, pass out race packets, and prepare food for runners.
More volunteer and race information can be found on the Runsignup website or the Crossroads United Methodist church website.
The DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle
For the people who want to get into the holiday spirit early, the DC Holiday Market at Dupont Circle is a perfect place to get some holiday cheer.
Opening on Friday, Nov. 22, the market features products from over 30 small businesses, so there will be something for everyone. From artisans to boutique brands to worldwide handcrafts and unique gift items, this is the perfect place to get holiday shopping done early.
For those not interested in shopping, there are still plenty of activities available. The market also brings local performers, festive decorations, and holiday treats. Some popular spots at the market are Migue’s Mini Donuts and Capital Candy Jar where there are many tasty treats to be tried.
Being only a 45 minute drive from Ashburn or a 70 minute metro ride from Ashburn Station, the DC Holiday Market is the perfect place to visit over Thanksgiving break to jumpstart a festive mood.
Reston Holiday Parade
Similar to the Macy’s Day Parade, the Reston Holiday Parade is a local, smaller-scale parade that takes place on Nov. 29 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
This event features large, character balloons like those in the Macy’s Day parade, bands, dancers, and much more. Post parade, the event continues with a tree lighting, sing-along, carriage rides, and other festive activities.
The Reston Holiday Parade is held at the Reston Town Center where there are many other entertaining activities to partake in. There is an activity for everyone such as ice skating, shopping, and other holiday fun.
Whether participating in a Thanksgiving Day run, visiting a holiday market, or watching an exciting parade, there are many fun events to enjoy with friends and family during Thanksgiving break.
