San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches and famous zoo. This second largest city in California enjoys average temperatures in the 70s all year long, making it the perfect vacation spot. Thanksgiving is a great time to visit this great city, as there are many activities for everyone to enjoy.
The Mother Goose Parade takes place every year the Sunday before Thanksgiving in San Diego County, attracting thousands. The nonprofit Mother Goose Parade Association formed to plan the parade each year. Similar to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, spectators can enjoy a lineup of floats, marching bands, clowns, celebrities, character balloons and Santa. Mickey and Minnie Mouse have even been known to make an appearance. Catch it in El Cajon, California, just about a dozen miles northeast of San Diego proper.
A buffet dinner of turkey and all the trimmings are elegantly served in two of the hotel's grand ballrooms. This traditional dinner serves as an opening for the hotel's holiday festivities, which include enjoy outdoor ice skating and view a spectacular display of colorful lights.
Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Ave
Coronado, CA 92118
800-468-3533
Father Joe's run/walk supports the St. Vincent de Paul Village, a charity that has provided meals and other services to the needy in San Diego community since 1950. Held on Thanksgiving Day each year, runners and walkers of all ages show up to in the early morning for their 5K run. Participants receive a free breakfast and enjoy entertainment from a live band. Participants can register online at www.thanksgivingrun.org.
Father Joe's Thanksgiving Day Run
c/o Prime Time
PO Box 1009
Twin Peaks, CA 92391
Hornblower Cruises puts a maritime spin on the Thanksgiving experience. Guests are given a glass of champagne as they board. and a traditional turkey meal is served while cruising the San Diego Bay. Expect all of the familiar trimmings, including mashed potatoes, carrots, stuffing and lots of desserts.
Hornblower Cruises & Events
888-467-6256
Start off the Thanksgiving holidays with the Dixieland Jazz Festival at the Town & Country Hotel and Convention Center in San Diego. Sponsored by America's Finest City Dixieland Jazz Society, this five day festival features a slew of bands and artists. On Thanksgiving Day, a dinner buffet will be available for the jazz festival attendees in the convention center.
America's Finest City Dixieland Jazz Society
P.O. Box 880387
San Diego, California 92168-0387
619-297-5277
