We polled our email subscribers a couple of weeks ago, and it turns out the 62% of you are staying here in the QC for Thanksgiving this year. Nice! We’re right here with ya.
Whether you’re a first time host looking to entertain out of town guests or just keeping a low profile, there are endless options for fun all week long. Here’s our round up of what to do Thanksgiving week in Charlotte. {And here’s our round up of What to Do with Kids this week}.
5 Charlotte Turkey Trots Worth Lacing Up For:
It’s not too late to register! Before you indulge in your Turkey Day feast, challenge your family members or enjoy a leisurely stroll at one of these Charlotte area walk/run events:
Charlotte Southpark Turkey Trot
Thursday, Nov. 26
Southpark
Bring the whole family out for the 27th Annual Charlotte SouthPark Turkey Trot. Choose your course with 8K, 5K, 1 mile and even a 26.2 yard Tot Trot options. Start a new tradition with the family by dressing up in costume, best ideas are rewarded with special prizes!
Turkey Dash Charlotte
Thursday, Nov. 26
Village at Robinson Farm
If you’re celebrating in South Charlotte, this is the turkey trot for you. Walk or run the four mile timed course or take it easy on the one mile fun run/walk course. Afterwards, enjoy family time in the “Family Village” with activities for all ages.
Lake Norman Turkey Trot
Thursday, Nov. 26
Gold’s Gym in Cornelius
Lake Norman’s Turkey Trot offers a 5K and 10K option. Be one of the first 1000 trotters to register and receive a long sleeve Lake Norman Turkey Trot tee shirt. Register Wednesday, Nov. 25 at Gold’s Gym (12 PM-7 PM) or on-site the morning of the race.
University City Turkey Trot
Thursday, Nov. 26
The Fresh Market on Prosperity Church Road
Before the big feast, support the Sickle Cell Partners of the Carolinas at the 2nd Annual University City Turkey Trot 5K. There will be a fun run for kids and a costume contest, so get creative! There is no race day registration for this trot, so make sure you register online HERE.
ChristmasTown USA 5K
Saturday, Nov. 28
Pharr Family YMCA in McAdenville
Ok, so it’s not technically a turkey themed dash. But the ChristmasTown 5K is just the cure for the Thanksgiving leftovers you’re definitely still eating, and the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. race through the 5K course and see the charm of the McAdenville lights up close. Proceeds benefit the Pharr Family YMCA & McAdenville Women’s Club.
Other Things to Do Thanksgiving Week:
2nd Annual Tree Lighting Celebration
Tuesday, Nov.24
Bank of America Stadium
An unstoppable record isn’t the only thing lighting up the Panther’s stadium this week! Join Sir Purr, the TopCats, Purrcussion and the local talent light up the 58 foot tree at the corner of Mint and Graham. There will even be food vendors and a visit from Santa Claus himself.
Sound of Music
Tuesday, Nov. 24-Sunday, Nov. 29
Belk Theater
Look no further for the perfect activity for out of town guests. The Sound of Music is at the Belk Theater just in time for the holiday week. Enjoy the classic storyline and Academy Award winning soundtrack through Sunday, Nov. 29.
Novant Health Thanksgiving Day Parade
Thursday, Nov. 26
Uptown Charlotte
Get the full scoop here!
Enjoy local and regional performances and special guests march alongside larger-than-life floats at this year’s Thanksgiving Parade. Use our friends and family code for $5 off of your front row ticket.
To enjoy everything in one place, enjoy a front row seat of the action and a turkey dinner at McCormick & Schmick’s. Become a member of the Landry’s Select Club and then make your reservations here. Looking for another place to grab a bite after the big show? Step into the Asbury right in Uptown. Check out their Thanksgiving menu.
Small Business Saturday
Saturday, Nov. 28
South End Charlotte
Get the full scoop here!
Watch out Black Friday. Charlotte shoppers love their local goodies, and the folks in South End are making it easier than ever to shop your favorite pop-up shops, fashion trucks and Southend favorites. Getting around is simple with the help of trolleys running all day and food trucks and beverages for sale will keep you fueled to shop till you drop.
NASCAR Hall of Fame Tree Lighting on The Plaza
Saturday, Nov. 28
NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza
The leftovers have been eaten and it’s officially time to deck the halls. I mean, the Hall. The NASCAR Hall of Fame is lighting up The Plaza on Saturday night. Join them as the tree is lit and stick around for some ice skating under to Uptown lights.
Winter Wonderland Craft Fair
Saturday, Nov. 28
The Dairy Barn
It’s the  time of year when DIY reigns supreme. But why stress when you can leave it up to the pros? Shop local artisan crafts at this year’s Winter Wonderland Craft Fair. Find holiday gifts, hostess must-haves and decor touches.
Mark your calendars!
7th Street Public Market Holiday Sip & Shop
Wednesday, Dec. 2
7th Street Public Market
Sipping and shopping? Count us in. Get your local holiday gifts in one easy stop next week at the 7th Street Market. Over 50 local artisans are joined by live music performances, food samples and even free sparkling wine for the first 100 guests. Don’t miss this one!
