Although the weather in Santa Barbara is perpetually sunny and warm, the holiday season is upon us! Thanksgiving is right around the corner, so we’ve got a roundup of the Santa Barbara Thanksgiving activities for 2019. From fun activities to feasts, we have your day of giving thanks covered. Check out all there is to do in Santa Barbara!
Pumpkin Smash at Santa Barbara Zoo
On Thanksgiving, the Santa Barbara Zoo will close early due to the holiday. But during the day, you can visit the zoo and see all of the animals celebrating the day. They’ll all have pumpkins to smash, eat, and play with. Stop by the Pumpkin Smash and feast your eyes on the cuteness!
The Santa Barbara Zoo is open on Thanksgiving from 10:00 am – 3:30 pm.
Finding a Thanksgiving feast
One thing’s for sure: it’s not Thanksgiving without a proper feast! And in Coronado, you don’t have to go without! There are plenty of restaurants that will remain open on Thanksgiving, many even offering special meals for the day.
Caruso’s
At Caruso’s, you’ll be able to enjoy a four-course, prix-fixe menu designed by Chef Massimo Falsini. The courses are inspired by both Falsini’s Southern Italian heritage and traditional Thanksgiving fare. Here, the food is made with local, seasonal ingredients for a fresh and delicious meal.
Find more info here
Finch & Fork
Finch & Fork will be offering a holiday buffet full of traditional favorites and seasonal dishes. From turkey to salmon to soup, salads, veggies, mac ‘n cheese, and assorted desserts, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious meal with plenty of variety.
Find more info here
Outpost
Chef Damien Giliberti has assembled a fantastic three course meal for your Thanksgiving feast. Enjoy entree offerings such as oven roasted turkey breast or pan seared salmon. Pair with roasted butternut squash soup or a wedge salad as an appetizer, and pumpkin mousse or cheesecake for dessert.
Find more info here
The Set
On Thanksgiving, visit The Set for a delicious meal filled with holiday favorites. The three course meal features your choice of turkey & gravy, New York Strip Steak, butternut squash ravioli, or halibut. Each entree is served with a side soup or salad and includes a delicious trio of pies for dessert.
Find more info here
Christmas tree lighting
At the Miramar Beach Hotel, gather on Wednesday, November 27, to see the annual lighting of the Christmas tree. This 60 foot tall tree is a sight to behold, especially when it’s lit! Before the show starts and the tree is lit, enjoy activities such as live music and other fun festivities!
The show takes place on November 27 at 7:30 pm, with festivities beginning at 5:30 pm.
Where to stay for Thanksgiving
When you visit Santa Barbara for Thanksgiving, stay at Marina Beach Motel. Marina Beach is only 37 steps from the beach, and full of wonderful amenities. With complimentary breakfast every morning, and free cookies, tea, and coffee throughout the day, you’ll feel like you’re right at home! When you stay here, you’ll be close to all of the Santa Barbara Thanksgiving activities.
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