Thanksgiving may just be the most anticipated of American holidays, aside from Christmas. Family and friends gather to indulge in an opulent spread of turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, and all the trimmings. Then there are the pumpkin and pecan pies, along with other decadent desserts. We watch football and holiday movies and count our many blessings.
This year, why not start a new tradition with a Lowcountry Thanksgiving? There's a cornucopia of activities on the South Carolina coast to entertain the entire family.
Turkey Trot at Wild Dunes
Prior to the holiday week on Saturday, Nov. 16, the Turkey Trot Family Fun Run takes place along a 5K along scenic beach route at Wild Dunes. The entry fee is $25 and includes a T-shirt. The run starts at 8 a.m.
Harvest Hangout at Wild Dunes
On Wednesday, Nov. 27 chow down at the Harvest Hangout, also at Wild Dunes Resort. The menu features Southern favorites like Lowcountry salad, shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles, warm chocolate bread pudding and more. Then “hang out” at the fire pit on the Village Plaza for bingo, games and a family-friendly movie. Dinner buffet is from 6-8 p.m. Enjoy an assortment of activities and games all evening long followed by a movie at sunset. The cost is $40 for adults, $15 for children.
Turkey Trot on Kiawah Island
Start your Thanksgiving morning on Nov. 28 with another Turkey Trot, this one on Kiawah Island. This annual race offers a one-mile walk or a 1-3 mile run on the beach for families, beginners, or competitive runners. The fun begins at 10 a.m. when you receive your raffle ticket, and complimentary coffee and hot cocoa. Run begins at 10:30 a.m., and the raffle is at 11:15 a.m. This event is complimentary, with limited edition Turkey Trot shirts available for purchase at the race start.
Thanksgiving Day Golf Cart Parade
Head over to Wild Dunes Resort for the annual Thanksgiving Day Golf Cart Parade. Parade rolls at 10:30 a.m. in front of the Swim Center. Spectators can line up on sidewalks on Palmetto Drive and Racquet Club Road between The Village and the Sweetgrass Pavilion. Watch for flying candy and other throws! Participate in the parade with your personal cart or rent one for $40 each. Rentals must be reserved by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27. Each two-seater cart comes with a small assortment of decorating supplies. Your own family-friendly decorations are welcomed and encouraged.
Turkey Hunt in Night Heron Park
At Kiawah Island Resort, take part in the Turkey Hunt from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. as kids split into three age groups to search for small turkeys hidden in Night Heron Park.
Thanksgiving Banquet at Wild Dunes Resort
Then, gobble down dinner with the Thanksgiving Banquet at Wild Dunes Resort. Celebrate at Sweetgrass Pavilion with seating at 1 and 4 p.m. Of course, there will be turkey and your favorite trimmings along with clove-studded pit ham, seafood, and all the appetizers, salads, vegetables and tantalizing desserts to fill up your family.
Children's Thanksgiving Buffet at Kiawah Resort
Talk about sitting at the kids’ table, Kiawah Resort offers a Children’s Thanksgiving Buffet. Kids have a buffet of their own in the Heron Room while adults enjoy the grand buffet in the adjacent ballroom. The children’s buffet features games, live animals, arts and crafts, as well as delicious and fun food. Other holiday meals at Kiawah Resort include the Jasmine Porch Thanksgiving Breakfast Buffet, Dining in the Ocean Room, Thanksgiving Buffet at The Atlantic Room and Thanksgiving at The Players’ Pub, where you can give thanks and watch football on one of the many TVs.
Fall Festival at Night Heron Park
After mealtime, head to the free Fall Festival, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at Night Heron Park on Kiawah Island. The festival includes live music, an inflatable jump castle, pumpkin bowling, southern lawn games, face painting and arts and crafts.
There’s plenty of after-Thanksgiving holiday activities on Friday, Nov. 29 as well with Kids Night Out: Polar Express at Night Heron Park; the Annual Turkey Day Shootout archery contest; and the Holiday Festival from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Grand Pavilion at Wild Dunes Resort.
Really, what more could you ask for a memorable Thanksgiving holiday?