Things to Do on Thanksgiving in Oregon 2025 – Events, Activities & Ideas

Oregon offers a cozy and picturesque Thanksgiving experience. With lush forests, scenic coastlines, and charming towns, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly activities, parades, outdoor adventures, or community volunteering, Oregon has it all.

Parades & Community Events

Oregon’s Thanksgiving parades and community events bring local traditions to life:

Portland Thanksgiving Day Parade

Downtown Portland hosts a festive parade with marching bands, floats, and street performances

Great for families and visitors looking for a classic Thanksgiving morning experience

Salem Family Thanksgiving Festival

Arts and crafts for kids

Seasonal music and dance performances

Community games and holiday-themed contests

Eugene Community Thanksgiving Gathering

Interactive events for families

Local performers and food vendors

Charity fundraisers and volunteer opportunities

Festivals & Fairs

Several Oregon towns celebrate Thanksgiving with fall festivals and seasonal fairs:

Eugene Harvest Festival

Seasonal food vendors and local craft booths

Live music and community entertainment

Activities designed for families and children

Bend Autumn Fair

Farmers’ market-style booths with seasonal products

Traditional and modern Thanksgiving treats

Games and activities for kids

Ashland Thanksgiving Celebration

Live performances, workshops, and holiday-themed events

Local artisan craft sales

Family-friendly activities and entertainment

Family Activities & Attractions

Oregon has many attractions open on Thanksgiving suitable for all ages:

Oregon Zoo (Portland)

Seasonal exhibits and decorations

Family-friendly educational programs

Open on Thanksgiving

Crater Lake National Park

Scenic drives and photo opportunities

Winter hiking trails and viewpoints

Best visited early due to shorter daylight in November

Columbia River Gorge

Easy to moderate family-friendly trails

Waterfall views ideal for nature photography

Picnic areas for a scenic Thanksgiving lunch

Oregon Coast

Beach walks and coastal scenery

Opportunities for tidepool exploration

Local seafood restaurants offering seasonal specials

Volunteer Opportunities

Thanksgiving in Oregon emphasizes giving back:

Portland-area food banks host meal prep and distribution events

Salem community kitchens welcome volunteers for Thanksgiving meals

Local shelters and nonprofits provide seasonal volunteering opportunities

Volunteering is a rewarding way to celebrate the holiday and make a positive impact in your community.

Dining & Restaurants

Oregon offers a wide range of Thanksgiving dining options:

Portland

Restaurants provide prix-fixe Thanksgiving menus

Traditional turkey dinners and innovative seasonal dishes

Eugene

Farm-to-table restaurants highlight local produce

Options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners

Bend

Cozy, rustic restaurants offer Thanksgiving specials

Family-style dining and holiday-themed menus

Coastal Towns

Waterfront dining in towns like Newport or Cannon Beach

Seasonal seafood paired with classic Thanksgiving dishes

Outdoor Adventures

Oregon’s natural beauty makes Thanksgiving perfect for outdoor activities:

Hiking in the Cascade Mountains – trails for beginners and advanced hikers

Beach walks along Cannon Beach and Pacific City – picturesque sunsets and driftwood adventures

Biking around Portland or Bend – scenic rides through forests and parks

Camping trips in state parks – enjoy a rustic, nature-filled Thanksgiving

Tips for a Memorable Thanksgiving in Oregon

Plan early – popular attractions and restaurants book quickly

Check operating hours – some parks and attractions have limited Thanksgiving hours

Volunteer – combine holiday fun with community giving

Dress appropriately – November weather can be rainy and chilly

Make reservations – restaurants, guided tours, and special events often fill up

Conclusion

Oregon provides a cozy and scenic Thanksgiving experience for families and travelers. From parades in Portland to outdoor adventures along the coast or mountains, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday. Volunteering, family-friendly attractions, seasonal festivals, and special dining options ensure that Thanksgiving 2025 in Oregon is memorable, meaningful, and full of holiday spirit.