The nice thing about Thanksgiving is it is a time when family and friends come together to sow in the thread of company and catching up. After the feast is over or the day before the feast begins, you may ask yourself hmmmmm. What are some family outings that we all can do around town. Well, if you’re in the Atlanta, GA area and looking for a new and fun Thanksgiving tradition with friends and family? Check out some fun events taking place in the area that you’re bound to enjoy.
Gardens Lights at Atlanta Botanical Gardens
The Garden Lights is probably one of the more popular events that take place during the Thanksgiving Holidays. We have probably participated in this event almost every year. We love coming here during the holidays, it’s become sort of a tradition. The light shows here are absolutely amazing. Trust me, you’re never going to see anything like this anywhere else. This event last from November 11 – January 11 into the next year so you’d have plenty of time to plan an amazing visit.
Parking
There are several options for parking. There is a parking deck at the Botanical Gardens but it builds up pretty quick. They also allow parking at the Piedmont Park deck right next to the Botanical Gardens, which is a very organized parking deck I must say. The parking deck at Piedmont Park have very sophisticated digital signage that makes parking a piece of cake. For us, we will either park at Piedmont park or at a shopping plaza close to the Botanical Gardens and walk. It’s not a long walk at all, but that’s just us, and you will see several other people doing the same, especially during Thanksgiving season.
If you decide to park at either the Botanical Gardens or Piedmont Park you will have to pay a fee. When I went for the first time thirteen years ago, the parking was only $5. When we went last year it was $25. Like everything, the price for parking has jumped. That is why we will sometimes park at the shopping plaza not far from the Botanical Gardens, particularly around Thanksgiving when it’s busier than usual.
Thanksgiving Day 5k
If you’re looking to get whipped into shape, this half marathon is just for you. This marathon takes place on the morning of Thanksgiving Day. You don’t necessarily have to be in the race, but you can be a by-standing cheerleader, especially on Thanksgiving. As the marathon starts on the beautiful autumn morning of Thanksgiving in Downtown Atlanta, you can cheer the fellow runners on with words of encouragement, and holding up fun supportive signs.
This race can draw thousands to spectators and participates, so it would be wise to plan ahead for transportion. If you want to drive, there are many parks areas but they will fill up fast so the earlier the better. I would also suggest utilizing MARTA (train station).
Elegant Thanksgiving Buffets
Not in the mood to cook? I got you! Here is a list of serval Elegant Thanksgiving Buffets whether it’s just you, you and your special person, or family to quietly enjoy.
These elegant Thanksgiving Buffets are a place where you can sit and relax to the live bands playing soft holiday music.
- Thanksgiving at the Whitley – If you want to talk about a posh sophisticated dinner this is it. Located at the Whitley hotel in Buckhead, within the Legacy Ballroom we’ll enjoy fine hand craved meats, along with delicious sides and desserts. You will also enjoy a live band as you dine-in on your delicious MEAL.
- Thanksgiving Dinner at Waldorf Astoria – Indulge in an absolutely elegant Thanksgiving dinner here at Waldorf Astoria. This restaurant is located inside of the Atlanta Luxury Hotel in Buckhead, and is known for their beautiful Afternoon Tea Ritual. Here you can order Tea and beautifully displayed tea sandwiches, and petite cakes that pair perfectly with your afternoon tea. This year the Waldorf Astoria will be hosting a special Thanksgiving dinner. They will offer a holiday buffet to honor the timeless tradition of the Thanksgiving.
