FAMILY THANKSGIVING ACTIVITIES IN ILLINOIS: GATHER AND GIVE THANKS
Thanksgiving is a cherished time for gathering with family and friends to express gratitude and create lasting memories. Illinois offers an abundance of family-friendly activities, scenic beauty, and cultural events that elevate the holiday spirit. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional feast, attending a local parade, or exploring historic sites, Thanksgiving in Illinois offers something special for everyone.
In this blog post, we’ll let you know some places in Illinois to celebrate Thanksgiving and the most exciting, entertaining, and fun things to do with family.
The Best Places To Celebrate Thanksgiving in Illinois:
1- Chicago:
Chicago is a dynamic hub for Thanksgiving festivities. The annual Thanksgiving Day Parade in downtown Chicago is a beloved tradition, featuring giant balloons, marching bands, and cultural performances.
After the parade, enjoy the city’s rich cultural offerings, from the Christmas tree lighting in Millennium Park to diverse dining experiences at renowned restaurants like Palmer House Hilton. Whether you’re exploring the city or taking a holiday cruise on Lake Michigan, Chicago offers an exciting Thanksgiving experience.
2- Bishop Hill:
For a more peaceful celebration, Bishop Hill is an ideal Thanksgiving destination. Known for its small-town charm and Julmarknad Christmas Market, Bishop Hill offers handmade goods, traditional Swedish folklore characters, and holiday sales.
Families can enjoy the Holiday Cookie Walk and take part in community festivities that bring history and culture together.
3- Alton:
Located along the Mississippi River, Alton offers a scenic and festive Thanksgiving experience. Take part in the Great River Road Run, explore natural trails, or enjoy themed dining at waterfront restaurants. Alton’s Christmas Wonderland at Rock Spring Park is a must-see, featuring four million twinkling lights that create a magical holiday atmosphere.
4- Galva:
Galva, a small town, gives a community a warm spirit. Enjoy Thanksgiving meals, cultural offerings, and community events at the traditional American holiday. Galva is a place for Ol’ Fashion Christmas that annually offers dance, music, and theater.
Galva also offers a Mini-Tree Festival at the Art Council’s Building, decorated with wreaths and trees; enjoy delicious communal meals, drinks, and desserts.
5- Rockford:
With its autumn colors, historic parks, and annual festivals, Rockford is another great place to celebrate Thanksgiving. The city’s State Street parade features floats, marching bands, and dancers. Visitors can also take advantage of Black Friday sales at local shops, making it an ideal destination for holiday shopping, you can rent a limo to explore more.
6- Champaign:
Champaign, the University Town, offers celebrations and cultural events. Enjoy Thanksgiving meals at diverse restaurants, explore the university campus, and take part in holiday-themed events. Check out the Seasons of Lights at the Planetarium, start your Friday with the Christie Clinic Annual Parade, and visit the Kris Kringle Kid’s Scavenger Hunt to take a round of the town in horse-drawn carriages.
7- Effingham:
For a unique blend of holiday festivities and small-town charm, head to Effingham. Participate in the Effingham Turkey Trot or enjoy the Hometown Holiday Show at Johnny and June. Effingham also offers historic tours, giving visitors a chance to explore local landmarks while celebrating Thanksgiving.
8- Aurora:
Aurora provides a family-friendly atmosphere for Thanksgiving, shopping, and historic Downtown. Enjoy the holiday events at Paramount Theater and have cultural experiences and family-fun activities. At the Thanksgiving Farm Festival, watch the turkeys stroll by you, farm animals in their cages. Have a lot of fun at the corn maze, find the way, take part in candle making, and eat Thanksgiving Brunch at the Hound Blue Moon with a pasta dish.
9- Peoria:
Peoriasa is situated along the Illinois River and offers a scenic backdrop, beautiful views, and dining options. It provides a blend of natural beauty and cultural offerings. Enjoy delicious meals at a variety of restaurants, including the most famous Dave’s Buffet and Jim’s Steak House. Get tickets for the weekend Comedy Explosion and enjoy the best acts. The Chocolate Turkey Race is a 33-mile run for great swag.
Family-Friendly Thanksgiving Activities in Illinois:
Illinois offers a variety of activities for families to enjoy during Thanksgiving. Start your day with a delicious meal and then explore the state’s many holiday lights displays, including those on State Street in Chicago. Families can also enjoy ice skating, navigating corn mazes, or attending local festivals.
For those looking to add a dash of history, Illinois’ many historic sites, such as Lincoln Log Cabin, provide educational experiences for children and adults alike. A trip to Moraine Hills State Park or Starved Rock State Park allows families to enjoy nature walks, while cities like Champaign and Peoria host parades and festive events perfect for kids and adults alike.
Thanksgiving Family Traditions also offers the opportunity to engage in community volunteer work, such as helping at local food banks or participating in cleanup events.
Unique Thanksgiving Traditions in Illinois
The crisp autumn air, roast turkey, and vibrant fall hues are signs of the Thanksgiving Festival. The Heartland of America, Illinois, offers many Thanksgiving activities for this tradition; let’s explore together and make the Thanksgiving festival extra special;
1- Lincoln Log Cabin:
Travel back in the 19th century with the historic Lincoln Log Cabin in Charleston, Illinois. Take a guided tour to learn how the ancient people prepared Thanksgiving dinner without modern kitchen facilities and how they celebrated the holidays.
2- Starved Rock State Park:
Explore the fall colors at Starved Rock State Park, a natural wonder that attracts visitors. The park is transformed with the changing leaves during Thanksgiving and offers a stunning display. Hike through the 13 miles of trails and enjoy the beauty of Illinois. Stay at the Lodge for cozy and rustic scenic views.
3- Thanksgiving Parade:
Attend the McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade in Downtown Chicago, an annual tradition from 1934 featuring floats, giant balloons, marching bands, and performances. Choose a spot along the Magnificent Mile and enjoy a cherished tradition. Start the holiday season with creativity and community spirit.
4- Signature Room at the 95th:
Dine on Thanksgiving meal at the Signature Room at the 95th and have a gourmet dinner experience. It is a fine dining restaurant that offers a feast with breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline. Enjoy a menu including roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. Make sure to make a reservation in advance.
5- Christkidlmarket:
Christkindlmarket is a popular destination during the holiday season, inspired by the traditional German Christmas Market. It is a festive market during holidays featuring vendors selling crafts, hand-made items, ornaments, and holiday treats like bratwursts, pretzels, and hot cocoa. Explore the market with your family, enjoy food, and find gifts for your loved ones.
6- Turkey Trot Tradition:
Burn your calories with a family-friendly Turkey Trot tradition across Illinois. This festival is organized for a festive run and welcomes participants of all ages for a leisurely walk or brisk run. The Turkey Trot adds a healthy element to your Thanksgiving morning.
7- Farms And Orchards In Illinois:
At Thanksgiving, take your family to a local pumpkin patch to enjoy the sight of orange pumpkins in a picturesque setting. Enjoy hayride corn mazes, and let your little ones pick the pumpkins of their choice. It’s a memorable outing, made lasting memories with the stunning backdrop of autumn’s beauty.
8- Community Centers and Volunteers:
Thanksgiving is a time for giving back, and Illinois offers numerous opportunities for families to participate in community service. Whether you’re helping at a local soup kitchen or donating time at a food bank, getting involved in community service is a meaningful way to teach children the importance of gratitude and responsibility.
Families can also participate in events at community centers or join local initiatives such as the Effingham Turkey Trot to support local causes.
9- Cooking Classes For Kids:
As Thanksgiving is all about Food, engage your little one in the art of fun Thanksgiving cooking. Make creative and traditional recipes with them and spend quality time with your kids. Many cooking schools and stores in Illinois offer Thanksgiving cooking classes, especially for kids.
They can learn to roast turkey, make stuffing, bake pies, or make cranberry sauce with the help of elders. These cooking classes are informative and fun-filled. Kids can learn tips and tricks from experienced chefs.
10- Craft Stores:
Visit local craft stores to pick the perfect gift for your family and buy items for home decorations. You can also find supplies or materials to create any DIY project, handmade cards, or Thanksgiving decorations for your home or friends. It’s a beautiful way to spend the holiday with homemade charm.
11- Family Movie Night:
After the feast and Turkey meal, gather your family for a tremendous & cozy movie night. Choose films with a Thanksgiving theme so your kids learn the messages of gratitude. You can watch classic movies like “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” or “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.”
12- Visit Historical Sites:
For a unique experience, visit historical sites such as New Salem State Historic Site in Springfield. It’s an educational way to connect your kids with the roots of the Thanksgiving tradition.
13- Neighborhood Feast:
Organize a neighborhood feast, make dishes, share with others, and create a positive community celebration. It creates a sense of unity and strength and turns your neighbors into extended family.
14- Nature Walks:
Explore nature and enjoy the cool weather, spend time at natural trails, and walk with your family. Take a stroll through the forests; the Moraine Hills State Park in McHenry County is a great place to start. Enjoy trails, fishing, and picnics here. Starved Rock State Park in Utica also offers beautiful trails and stunning views of 13 canyons.
15- Board Game Night:
Thanksgiving is a great time to make a strong bond with family and friends over board games. Illinois has various cafes offering exciting board games, including Bonus Round Game Cafe in Chicago, Pieces Board Game Bar and Cafe in St. Louis, and Red Raccoon Games in Bloomington.
16- Bus Tour:
Take a Bus Tour of the city to explore the architectural marvels, historical sites, and festive decorations. This amazing experience allows you to tailor your journey, hopping off at points of your interest and spend great time there
17- Christmas Tree Lighting:
Join the Chicago’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Millennium Park, where the city’s majestic Christmas tree takes center stage. The ceremony is the official start of the holiday season and makes your moment cherished.
18- Zoo Lights:
For a family-friendly adventure, visit the Lincoln Park Zoo for the annual Zoo Lights event. Enjoy the dazzling light displays, animated light shows, and festive decorations that transform the zoo into a wonderland.
Other Things to do on Thanksgiving with your family and kids:
- Cook a Thanksgiving meal Together.
- Create a Gratitude jar. Each family member writes and reads aloud things they are thankful for during the meal.
- Engage in Thanksgiving-themed crafts like making handprint turkeys, pilgrim hats, and autumn decorations.
- You can play football with your kids in the backyard. It’s a great way to burn calories and have fun.
- You can walk with your seniors and respectful family members and spend quality time with them.
- You can read stories about the history of Thanksgiving with your kids.
- Bake-decorated cookies are also a fun activity that makes your kids creative. And give them a chance to prove their creativity.
- Creste’s list of autumn-themed items for a scavenger hunt in your backyard or nearby park.
- You can save the memories of your family by taking family photos.
- If some family members can’t attend, arrange a virtual Thanksgiving celebration.
- Let the kids create their own Thanksgiving centerpieces for the dinner table.
- If weather permits, end the day with a small backyard campfire and make more memories together.
Things to do at Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving and Last-Minute Sales in Illinois:
Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season in Illinois, and shoppers eagerly anticipate the various sales and deals available throughout the state. From Black Friday to Cyber Monday, and even local markets, Illinois offers a wide range of shopping opportunities for bargain hunters. Here’s a guide to the most popular Thanksgiving sales spots and how to make the most of the shopping season.
1. Black Friday Sales Across Illinois
Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping events in Illinois, offering massive discounts on a wide array of products like electronics, clothing, and home goods. Major retailers such as Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and Macy’s offer deep discounts. Shopping malls, such as Oakbrook Center, Woodfield Mall, and The Magnificent Mile, also provide great deals on luxury items and fashion.
To maximize your Black Friday experience:
- Plan ahead: Check out deals online and plan your store visits based on their offerings.
- Arrive early: Many stores open on Thanksgiving night, so arriving early helps ensure you get the best deals.
- Shop strategically: Focus on high-demand items such as electronics and toys, which often sell out quickly.
2. Small Business Saturday
After Black Friday comes Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to supporting local businesses. This is the perfect time to shop in Illinois’ small towns like Naperville, Geneva, and Evanston, where local retailers offer exclusive discounts and unique, handcrafted gifts. Shopping at local boutiques allows for more personalized service and the chance to find one-of-a-kind products.
3. Cyber Monday Deals
For those who prefer shopping online, Cyber Monday offers another opportunity to grab great deals. Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target offer special online discounts, with free shipping and additional markdowns on popular items such as electronics, fashion, and home goods. Many Illinois-based retailers extend their Black Friday sales to Cyber Monday, allowing shoppers to snag deals from the comfort of their homes.
4. Outlet Malls in Illinois
Chicago Premium Outlets in Aurora and Fashion Outlets of Chicago in Rosemont are popular destinations for Thanksgiving weekend shoppers. These malls offer discounts of up to 70% on luxury brands like Nike, Coach, Kate Spade, and Michael Kors. The extended weekend sales at outlet malls give shoppers more chances to get high-end products at discounted rates.
5. Holiday Markets in Illinois
Illinois is also home to several holiday markets during Thanksgiving weekend. The Christkindlmarket in Chicago and Naperville is a must-visit, offering a German-inspired shopping experience with handcrafted ornaments, festive food, and unique gifts. The Randolph Street Holiday Market in Chicago offers vintage and handmade goods, making it perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts.
6. Maximizing Savings
To make the most of Thanksgiving sales in Illinois, consider signing up for store newsletters and alerts to get early access to exclusive deals. Use cashback programs and apps like RetailMeNot and Rakuten to maximize savings. Combining coupons with store deals can also help stretch your budget further.
7. Gift Card Promotions
Many stores and restaurants offer gift card promotions during Thanksgiving weekend, where shoppers can receive bonus cards for purchasing gift cards. For example, a $100 gift card purchase might come with a $20 bonus card. This is a great way to save on future purchases or offer gift cards as presents.
8. Local Department Stores
Iconic department stores in Illinois, such as Macy’s on State Street, are famous for their Thanksgiving window displays and holiday sales. Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s also offer significant discounts, making department stores a great place to shop for clothing, beauty products, and home goods.
The Most Famous Thanksgiving Sales Points in Illinois:
Here are some of the most famous Thanksgiving sales points in Illinois, where shoppers can score great deals and enjoy the holiday shopping experience:
The Magnificent Mile (Chicago)
The Magnificent Mile is Chicago’s premier shopping destination, offering a wide variety of high-end retailers, department stores, and boutiques. During Thanksgiving weekend, many stores along this iconic stretch, including Macy’s, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale’s, offer significant discounts on fashion, home goods, and electronics. Black Friday here is a major event, with stores opening early and offering doorbuster deals.
Woodfield Mall (Schaumburg)
One of the largest malls in Illinois, Woodfield Mall is a shopping hub that draws thousands of people during Thanksgiving sales. The mall features over 200 stores, including Apple, Zara, Nordstrom, and Sephora, all offering holiday discounts. It’s an excellent spot for those looking to find deals on clothing, accessories, and electronics.
Chicago Premium Outlets (Aurora)
Chicago Premium Outlets is a must-visit destination for bargain hunters. This outlet mall offers discounts of up to 70% on top brands such as Coach, Nike, Michael Kors, Adidas, and more. Thanksgiving weekend sales often include extra markdowns on already discounted merchandise, making it a perfect spot for snagging designer items at lower prices.
Fashion Outlets of Chicago (Rosemont)
Located near O’Hare International Airport, the Fashion Outlets of Chicago is another great spot for Thanksgiving sales. Known for its luxury and designer brands, the mall features stores like Gucci, Burberry, and Prada, offering big discounts during the holiday season. It’s a great choice for high-end shopping at a fraction of the usual cost.
Oakbrook Center (Oak Brook)
Oakbrook Center is an upscale, open-air shopping mall that becomes a hotspot for Thanksgiving and Black Friday sales. With retailers like Louis Vuitton, Tory Burch, Apple, and Nordstrom Rack, shoppers can find a variety of deals on luxury items, tech gadgets, and fashion. The mall also has excellent dining options, making it a full-day shopping experience.
State Street (Chicago)
State Street in downtown Chicago is home to the iconic Macy’s on State Street, which features historic window displays and major Black Friday sales. Shoppers can enjoy discounts on clothing, home goods, beauty products, and more. Target, Old Navy, and other popular retailers along State Street also offer substantial Thanksgiving weekend discounts.
Randolph Street Market (Chicago)
For those looking for unique, vintage, or handmade items, the Randolph Street Market is the perfect destination during Thanksgiving weekend. This indoor-outdoor market offers a variety of one-of-a-kind gifts, antiques, and artisanal products, perfect for shoppers looking to avoid the crowds and find something special.
Christkindlmarket (Chicago and Naperville)
While not a traditional retail space, the Christkindlmarket in Chicago’s Daley Plaza and Naperville is a popular destination for holiday shoppers. This German-inspired market offers handcrafted ornaments, gifts, and festive food items like bratwursts and mulled wine, making it a great spot for unique holiday shopping.
Gurnee Mills (Gurnee)
Gurnee Mills, located between Chicago and Milwaukee, is a large outlet mall that attracts Thanksgiving shoppers with its impressive range of stores. Featuring Bass Pro Shops, Forever 21, Tommy Hilfiger, and more, Gurnee Mills offers up to 70% off during Black Friday and Thanksgiving sales, making it a major draw for families and bargain hunters alike.
River Oaks Center (Calumet City)
Located in the south suburbs of Chicago, River Oaks Center is a smaller mall with a solid selection of stores offering Black Friday discounts. Stores like Macy’s, JCPenney, and Foot Locker participate in the sales, making it a convenient option for suburban shoppers looking to avoid the city crowds.
If you’re shopping last-minute, many stores continue offering discounts throughout the Thanksgiving weekend and even until Christmas. Digital gift cards are a great option for those running out of time. To avoid crowds, shop early or late in the day, and make use of shopping apps to find additional discounts.
With so many shopping destinations and deals, Thanksgiving sales in Illinois are the perfect opportunity to find fantastic gifts and discounts while enjoying the holiday season. Whether shopping at luxury outlets, local boutiques, or large retailers, there’s something for every shopper in Illinois.
What is the Thanksgiving Weekend holiday?
Thanksgiving Weekend is a time when people celebrate the holidays that are known as Thanksgiving. It usually starts on Thursday in late November and lasts through the weekend. People gather with families and friends to share a special meal and express gratitude for the good things in their lives. It is the time for reflection, giving thanks to their loved ones, enjoying time together, and making some memories together.
What Are Thanksgiving Weekend Activities?
The Thanksgiving weekend in Illinois is packed with exciting activities. From Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in Millennium Park to the Zoo Lights event at the Lincoln Park Zoo, there are endless opportunities for festive family fun. For those who enjoy the outdoors, a nature walk through Moraine Hills State Park or Rock State Park in Utica is a great way to enjoy the crisp autumn air.
Board game cafes, such as Bonus Round Game Cafe in Chicago, offer a cozy way to spend Thanksgiving night with friends and family. Or, take a bus tour of Chicago to see the city’s architectural marvels, historical landmarks, and dazzling holiday decorations.
Which type of restaurant can you choose for dinner with your family on Thanksgiving?
If you want to make a dinner special for your family and friends and make some extra effort to make them special this Thanksgiving, booking a specific restaurant for dinner is a great idea. So, when you are busy choosing some restaurants for Thanksgiving dinner, you can consider the following types of restaurants to make your dinner extra special for your loved ones that are as follows:
- Traditional Restaurants
- Hotel Restaurants
- Fine Dining Establishments
- Buffets
- Family-friendly restaurants
- Local Favorites
- Steakhouse Restaurants
- Ethnic Cuisine Restaurants
- Waterfront or Scenic View Restaurants
Plan Your Thanksgiving Celebration Today
Thanksgiving in Illinois is more than just a holiday; it’s a chance to create lasting memories with loved ones, explore beautiful destinations, and participate in community-driven events. Whether you’re attending parades, dining at top restaurants, or volunteering, Illinois offers a wide variety of activities that cater to all ages and interests.
Make the most of your Thanksgiving weekend by exploring the state’s many attractions and enjoying time with family and friends. Book your transportation, plan your itinerary, and embrace the spirit of gratitude this Thanksgiving in Illinois.