Hey you, it’s me! 💋
Can somebody please explain how we’re already talking about Thanksgiving? 😂 This is my first Thanksgiving season living in Orlando, and I’ve been exploring everything our new hometown has to offer.
Whether you’re visiting family, planning a Disney vacation, spending the holiday with friends, or looking for a fabulous dinner where someone else does the dishes, I’ve put it all in one place: Thanksgiving dinners, theme park celebrations, Christmas lights, Turkey Trots, free festivals, dog-friendly outings, where to stay and an easy five-day itinerary.
And if you’re wondering how I’m spending the day, I’ll tell you below. (Hint: no mountain of dishes.) Grab your stretchy pants and your favorite people. We’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Orlando style! 💋
Thanksgiving Weekend at a Glance
Thanksgiving is Thursday, November 26, 2026. The holiday weekend runs through Sunday, November 29.
| Date | What’s happening |
|---|---|
| Wed, Nov 25 | Thanksgiving Eve parties and arrivals |
| Thu, Nov 26 | Thanksgiving dinners, Turkey Trots, theme parks |
| Fri, Nov 27 | EPCOT Festival of the Holidays, Frontyard festivities, Black Friday |
| Sat, Nov 28 | FusionFest, Small Business Saturday, Now Snowing in Celebration |
| Sun, Nov 29 | FusionFest, holiday attractions and local outings |
Planning tip: Thanksgiving week is busy around Orlando. Reserve restaurants and ticketed experiences early, and verify hours and prices directly with organizers.
Where to Eat Thanksgiving Dinner in Orlando
First things first: who’s cooking the turkey? 😂 Orlando has lavish resort buffets, romantic dinners and neighborhood restaurants, so you can choose the kind of Thanksgiving that works for your family.
Resort Buffets and Holiday Feasts
Rosen Shingle Creek: Cala Bella
Noon–7 p.m. | Adults $157.95; children ages 4–11 $65.95. Prime rib, turkey turchetta, seafood, holiday sides and desserts. Advertised adult price includes champagne, mimosas, bellinis and Bloody Marys. Reservations: 407-996-3663. Rosen Shingle Creek Thanksgiving
Four Seasons Resort Orlando: Plancha
Thanksgiving buffet with carved turkey, chef specialties, baked breads and desserts. Advertised: $150 per adult; $58 per child. Four Seasons Thanksgiving dining
Four Seasons Resort Orlando: Ravello
1–8 p.m. | Advertised: $170 per adult; $58 per child. Elegant buffet with traditional dishes, carving stations, seafood and desserts. Four Seasons Thanksgiving dining
Waldorf Astoria Orlando: Oscar’s
4–9 p.m. | Advertised: $80 per adult; $40 for children ages 6–12. Family-friendly holiday buffet. Reservations: 407-597-5483. Waldorf Astoria holidays
Loews Portofino Bay: Trattoria del Porto
Thanksgiving buffet with traditional favorites and family entertainment. Advertised: $85 per adult; $35 ages 3–9; children under 3 free. Trattoria del Porto
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando: Highball & Harvest
2–8 p.m. | Southern-inspired Thanksgiving buffet. Reservations required; confirm pricing and menu. Ritz-Carlton holidays
Rosen Plaza and Rosen Centre
Additional International Drive hotel buffets with traditional holiday dishes. Check each hotel for its final 2026 menu and reservations. Rosen Centre Thanksgiving
Romantic Dinners and Local Favorites
Bull & Bear, Waldorf Astoria Orlando
6–10 p.m. | Four-course Thanksgiving dinner, advertised $120 per adult and $60 per child age 12 and under. Reservations: 407-597-5413. Waldorf Astoria holidays
Bites & Bubbles, Lake Formosa
Three-course Thanksgiving dinner advertised at $75 per person, with choices including deviled eggs, butternut squash bisque and holiday mains. Bites & Bubbles
Knife & Spoon, Grande Lakes
An elegant special-occasion option. Confirm whether a Thanksgiving-specific menu is offered. Knife & Spoon
The BOATHOUSE, Disney Springs
Waterfront dining and a holiday meal; ideal to pair with an afternoon exploring Disney Springs. The BOATHOUSE
Jaleo, Disney Springs
Spanish-inspired dining and advertised Thanksgiving-themed tapas, including turkey croquetas. Verify the holiday menu.
More options
Chima Steakhouse, Rodizio Grill, Café Gauguin, McCoy’s Bar & Grill and Hemisphere Restaurant are worth checking for holiday dining.
Before You Book
Confirm Thanksgiving hours and whether the restaurant serves a holiday menu or regular menu.
Ask about taxes, gratuity, parking, cancellation rules and children’s age brackets.
Reserve early and reconfirm the menu and prices directly with the restaurant.
Thanksgiving Our Way: A Little Less Fuss, a Lot More Gratitude
Last Thanksgiving, we skipped the big production and went to one of our favorite restaurants. We enjoyed an amazing meal and spent time together. Honestly, it was wonderful, and we’ll probably do the same this year.
Holidays change as families and seasons of life change. Maybe you’re cooking all day, making reservations, traveling, or keeping it quiet at home. Give yourself permission to enjoy the day in a way that fits your life.
Want to hear more? Go back and listen to last year’s Just Jelly Unfiltered Thanksgiving conversation, “Just You, No Pressure: Choosing Presence Over Performance.”
Listen to the Thanksgiving episode on Spotify
Are you cooking this year, making reservations, or letting somebody else handle the turkey? Write me back in Pen Pal and tell me! 😂💋
Thanksgiving at the Orlando Theme Parks
Walt Disney World
Magic Kingdom is dressed for Christmas, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party takes place on select evenings with a separate ticket. Hollywood Studios hosts separately ticketed Disney Jollywood Nights on select dates. EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays begins Friday, November 27, with global holiday kitchens, traditions and the Candlelight Processional. Check the exact party dates and park entry requirements before booking. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Disney Jollywood Nights EPCOT Festival of the Holidays
Universal Orlando
Universal’s holiday season includes Grinchmas, the holiday parade featuring Macy’s, decorations and entertainment in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and festive touches at Epic Universe. Premium tours and experiences may cost extra. Universal Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is underway on select dates, with holiday lights, shows and seasonal entertainment. Some add-ons cost extra. Expect holiday-week crowds at all major parks. SeaWorld Orlando
Christmas Lights and Thanksgiving Weekend Festivals
Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens
November 20–January 3 | A ticketed immersive outdoor light experience. This one is on my Orlando holiday bucket list! Dazzling Nights tickets
Now Snowing in Celebration
Beginning November 28 | Festive town-center decorations, entertainment and Florida-style snowfall. Snow in Florida? I need to see it! 😂 Celebration Town Center
Frontyard Holiday Festival, Dr. Phillips Center
Beginning November 27 | Advertised free holiday entertainment and seasonal food options in downtown Orlando. Verify performance schedule. Frontyard Holiday Festival
FusionFest, Loch Haven Cultural Park
November 28–29 | Free multicultural celebration with music, art, dance, performances and food representing the region’s diverse communities. FusionFest
ICE! Featuring The Polar Express, Gaylord Palms
Seasonal ice sculptures and holiday experiences. This ticketed attraction is cold inside, so dress warmly. ICE! at Gaylord Palms
Thanksgiving Eve: Orlando After Dark
Wednesday, November 25: The advertised Official Thanksgiving Eve Bar Crawl starts at 8 p.m. in downtown Orlando with participating venues and DJs. Johnny’s Other Side at 1619 E. Michigan Street has advertised a Tacos & Tequila Thanksgiving Eve party starting at 5 p.m. with live music. Confirm current ticket listings, promotions and age restrictions, and plan safe transportation.
Thanksgiving Morning Turkey Trots
Some people start Thanksgiving morning with a 5K. Meanwhile, I’m still wondering who’s cooking! 😂
Seniors First Turkey Trot 5K, Lake Eola Park: supports services for older adults.
Ritz-Carlton Gobbler 5K, Grande Lakes: confirm registration and guest eligibility.
Formosa Wine Run Turkey Trot 5K, Kissimmee area, November 22: a pre-holiday option.
Check race times, routes, fees, packet pickup and availability with each organizer.
Unique Thanksgiving Outings
Thanksgiving on the Water: St. Johns Rivership Co.
Sanford river cruises offer a memorable alternative to dinner at home. Thanksgiving lunch and dinner cruises have been advertised from $49 per person; verify the final holiday schedule, inclusions and current price. Turkey and a river view, with someone else doing the dishes? Yes, please! St. Johns Rivership Co.
ICON Park and the Orlando Eye
The 400-foot Orlando Eye observation wheel offers panoramic views. Thanksgiving Day operation has been advertised; confirm holiday hours and ticket availability. ICON Park
Winter Park and Local Adventures
Spend an afternoon browsing Park Avenue, stopping for coffee and exploring local shops. The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour typically offers one-hour rides from 312 E. Morse Boulevard, with listed tickets at $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 2–11. Tours are generally first come, first served. Verify Thanksgiving weekend hours. Pets are not allowed aboard except trained service animals. Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
Saturday, November 28 is Small Business Saturday. Park Avenue and Ivanhoe Village are lovely places to support local shops. And if you come home with a little present for yourself, I won’t tell! 😂
Thanksgiving With Your Fur Babies
Thor and Chanel are part of the family, and I’m always looking for outings where they can join us. Lake Baldwin Park is one of our regular favorites. Other places to investigate include leashed walks at Lake Eola Park and Mead Botanical Garden, plus the dog run at Constitution Green.
For outdoor dining, check current pet policies at Relax Grill, The Stubborn Mule, 903 Mills Market, The Lucky Lure, Vanbarry’s Public House and BarkHaven. Holiday hours and patio rules may change.
Giving Back: A Little Gratitude Goes a Long Way
Heart of Florida United Way’s Thanksgiving Project runs November 13–21, with a stated goal of assembling and distributing 6,500 meal kits to families in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. Check current volunteer and donation opportunities with the organization.
Heart of Florida United Way Thanksgiving Project
Where to Stay and How to Budget
Choose Lake Buena Vista for Disney-centered trips, Universal/International Drive for major attractions, or Winter Park for neighborhood restaurants and boutiques. If you travel with pets, confirm fees, restrictions and nearby walking areas.
| Experience | Cost guidance |
|---|---|
| Public parks and neighborhood walks | Often free |
| FusionFest | Free admission |
| Frontyard festivities | Free general entertainment; food extra |
| Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour | Listed $20 per adult |
| Thanksgiving dining | Examples in this guide range roughly $75–$170 per adult |
| Theme parks and holiday light attractions | Separate tickets, parking and upgrades |
| Turkey Trots | Registration varies |
| River cruise | Advertised from $49; verify |
A Five-Day Thanksgiving Orlando Itinerary
Wednesday, November 25
Arrive, settle in, explore Winter Park or Disney Springs and enjoy dinner. Nightlife fans can check Thanksgiving Eve events.
Thursday, November 26
Start with a Turkey Trot or relaxed walk, enjoy your reserved Thanksgiving meal, then explore a resort, ICON Park or a theme park.
Friday, November 27
Visit EPCOT for the Festival of the Holidays opening or explore the Frontyard holiday festivities.
Saturday, November 28
Browse Park Avenue for Small Business Saturday, visit FusionFest, then enjoy Celebration’s holiday atmosphere.
Sunday, November 29
Enjoy brunch, a park walk or a holiday light attraction before heading home.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Thanksgiving in Orlando in 2026?
Thursday, November 26, with the long weekend through Sunday, November 29.
Are Orlando theme parks open on Thanksgiving?
The major theme parks generally operate on Thanksgiving; verify exact hours and event requirements.
Where can I eat Thanksgiving dinner?
Options include Four Seasons, Rosen Shingle Creek, Waldorf Astoria, Loews Portofino Bay, Grande Lakes restaurants and local favorites. Book early.
Is Thanksgiving week crowded?
Yes, particularly around the theme parks and popular dining venues.
What are free Thanksgiving weekend activities?
FusionFest, parks, neighborhood walks and some Frontyard programming.
Can I bring my dog?
Some parks and patios welcome dogs; check individual policies. The Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour does not allow pets except trained service animals.
A Little Thanksgiving Reminder
As I prepare for my first Thanksgiving in Orlando, I’m thinking about how much can change in a year. New places, new routines, different traditions.
Maybe your Thanksgiving looks different, too. Maybe you’re traveling, gathering with a smaller group, or starting a new tradition. Whatever the day looks like, I hope you find moments worth being thankful for. Take the pictures. Make the memories. Say the prayer. Eat the pie. Enjoy the people beside you.
Coming Soon to The Sweet Escape
Ho Ho Ho! Things to Do in Orlando This December 2026
Christmas lights, festive neighborhoods, holiday markets, date nights, family outings and more adventures with Thor and Chanel. I’ll share what I loved, what I’d do again and what I’d skip.
Ring-a-Ding-Ding! New Year’s Eve in Orlando 2026
From romantic dinners and fabulous parties to family-friendly festivities and fireworks, we’re keeping the adventures going right into 2027!
Save this guide to your Thanksgiving or Orlando travel board.
Tag Me! 📸
Spending Thanksgiving in Orlando? Tag me @justjennboard in your adventures. Have a local favorite I need to try? Tell me in Pen Pal!
Planning the whole month? See Things to Do in Orlando This November 2026.
Before You Go…
Know someone spending Thanksgiving in Orlando? Share this resource with them! Whether they’re planning a family trip, a Friendsgiving, or a dinner where someone else does the cooking, there’s a little something here for everyone.
And if you enjoy resources like this, come hang out with me on Sunday mornings! Subscribe to The Sunday Scoop 🗞️, my weekly newsletter filled with midlife conversations, helpful resources, upcoming adventures, and a little bit of everything in between.
Happy Thanksgiving from my messy middle to yours! 🦃💕
Until our next chat, just stay sweet!
I love you,
Jenn 💋
Thanksgiving menus, prices and hours are as advertised and can change, so confirm directly with each restaurant and organizer before you go.