Writer: Jerrica DuBois
2 min read November 2023 — Thanksgiving is often associated with family, friends, and lots of food. For sports fans, it’s paradise. It can also be seen as the calm before the holiday storm, as some use an after-dinner nap time to map out their Black Friday shopping strategy instead.
The holidays also signal an uptick in travel plans. According to AAA, 4 million Texans will head out of town for the long weekend. That is a 2% increase from last year, and it is expected to be the third highest travel volume in the U.S. since 2001. As the majority of that 4 million will be traveling by car, they can also be grateful that gas prices are, on average, $.30 per gallon cheaper than last year. However, for those not hitting the road or catching a plane, Invest: explores some of the best ways to enjoy Turkey Day in the Metroplex.
Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot
Get a jump on the after holiday exercise before the festivities begin. A staple in the Metroplex for over 55 years, the YMCA’s Dallas Turkey Trot attracts thousands of competitors each year. Perfect for beginners to the most experienced runners, the 5K route runs through Deep Ellum and downtown’s Main Street. Participants will receive a free t-shirt and proceeds from the race go towards supporting the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas.
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CRC Thanksgiving Half Marathon
For the more advanced runner, the Cox Running Club Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon offers a challenging racing experience with a scenic Fort Worth backdrop. The route begins at Sundance Square, winds through downtown, across the Trinity River into Arlington Heights and then heads westward, passing landmarks such as the Bass Performance Hall and Will Rogers Memorial Center. All participants in the 5k and half marathon races will receive custom finishers medals. Register by Nov. 17 to guarantee that you will receive a performance event t-shirt.
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A Very Merry Village – Thanksgiving Buffet and Football Watch Party
Join A Very Merry Village for two holiday staples: food and football. Guests can enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet including traditional Thanksgiving dishes and bottomless mimosas and watch the Cowboys face the Commanders at the same time.
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Make & Take: Thanksgiving Desserts
This year, make Thanksgiving dinner extra special by bringing delicious fall desserts that will surprise the family. The Central Market Cooking School in Plano is hosting a Make & Take: Thanksgiving Dessert class for those wanting to make Thanksgiving dinner extra special with homemade treats. Attendees will learn to create a traditional flaky pie dough and a cream cheese dough, customize an apple filling to personal taste, and prepare pecan tassies.
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No One Eats Alone
Being physically away from family and friends on Thanksgiving is no excuse to miss out on a good meal. If you want to meet some new friends over food, head to Underdogs for the second annual “No One Eats Alone” event. Start the holiday season with a free dinner, including turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, stuffing and more. Drinks are not included, but will be available for purchase.
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Thanksgiving Murder Mystery
For those who want to add something a bit more non-traditional to their holiday celebrations, join Keith & Margo’s Murder Mystery Texas for a night of dinner and theater on Nov. 25. Guests get to enjoy an appetizer and three-course meal at Maggiano’s while solving a murder mystery. The menu includes mozzarella marinara, Italian tossed salad, parmesan-crusted cod and pumpkin cheesecake.
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