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A Thanksgiving Weekend Stuffed with Fun

Posted on November 17, 2020



This year’s turkey isn’t the only thing that’s stuffed. Thanksgiving weekend is positively packed with fun for the whole family! The holiday weekend can be enjoyed safely if we all do our part. Wear a mask—they're required in all indoor public spaces and outdoors where social distancing isn't possible. Carry hand sanitizer and wash your hands frequently. Stay at least six feet away from others and share space only with your family or those in your "bubble."  

Your Thanksgiving Weekend Itinerary 

Thursday 
After you’ve enjoyed your turkey and all the fixins, pile into the car for a magical (and socially distanced) trip through the Santa Claus Land of Lights. The drive-through display brings the story of Rudolph to life in brilliant, colorful LED lights over the course of 1.2 miles. Santa Claus Land of Lights kicks off Thanksgiving night at Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort and runs through December 27. 
Friday 
With the fuss of the Thanksgiving feast behind you, it’s time for a little fun and relaxation. Start the day with a leisurely hike at Lincoln State Park—it's a great way to get some fresh air without the crowds. Take it up a notch with a run through the scenic wooded area… and work off some of those pumpkin pie calories!
When it’s time for lunch, pop over to Rockport and feast on your favorites from Angelo’s Pizza (the breadsticks are a must!) or Los Panchos. If the weather's right, get your food to go and enjoy it by the beautiful Ohio River! 
Traveling with kiddos? Treat them to an after-lunch frozen treat from Scoops Ice Cream. Traveling with an over-21 crowd? Stop in River City Brew Works to try the local craft beers. Or head to Pepper’s Ridge Winery to sample a selection of unique flavors… and take a few bottles home for gifts!
Saturday 
It’s Small Business Saturday, so show your support for this area’s local businesses with a day of shopping. (Be a good shopper and wear your mask at all times!)
If you’re looking for unique seasonal décor and gifts, you can’t go wrong at Darlena’s Holiday and Gift Shoppe and Evergreen Boutique & Christmas Shop.
If you have kids on your Christmas shopping list, then you’ll want to check out the amazing selection at Santa’s TOYS. Plus, if you’re there from 12:00 pm - 4:00 CT pm on November 28 and 29, you’ll meet some new friends during the Live Reindeer Exhibit! Tickets are required—visit the Santa's TOYS website for more details and to order your free ticket.  Hungry? Grab lunch at one of the food trucks located throughout the Kringle Place Shopping Center for the Santa Claus Merry Market on Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Shopping for stocking stuffers? Santa’s Candy Castle has treats to delight all ages… old-fashioned candies, chocolates, popcorn, and more! Depending on the day’s temperature, sip on a hot cocoa or a frozen hot chocolate while you shop. 
If you’ve reserved your spot early, stick around at the Candy Castle to witness the centuries-old tradition of Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire. Limited spotscheck availability.
Sunday 
It’s been a wonderful weekend, so you’ll want to remember it. Head to Santa Claus Christmas Store to have an ornament personalized… there are thousands to choose from! While you’re there, grab a cookie for yourself and some fudge and chocolates to share when you get home. 
With 20+ Santa statues around town, you’ll definitely want to spend the day outside taking a #SantaSelfie or two (or more!). Start with the historic Santa statue located on the grounds of the Santa Claus Museum & Village. The Instagram-worthy statue stands an impressive 22 feet tall!

More Fun to Come 

Thanksgiving weekend is just the beginning of a season of fun. The Santa Claus Christmas Celebration kicks off December 4. Keep an eye on the Events page for all the festive happenings in the area.