For years when a bit of a different twist is desired for November festivities, a number of interesting "Show-Me" destinations await. Consider exploring how various pockets of Missourians honor and celebrate this holiday season.
Sainte Genevieve
Spend a long holiday weekend exploring new blends of wine during the Harvest Celebration on Route du Vin. At the Sainte Genevieve Winery, enjoy sampling wines before staying overnight in one of the city's quaint bed-and-breakfast inns. On Thanksgiving, secure reservations at Cafe Genevieve between 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for all Turkey Day must-haves.
Linn Creek
Located along the Lake of the Ozarks, Linn Creek provides a quiet place to retreat for the holidays and explore the great outdoors. While in town during Nov. 15-16, stop by the Holiday Market Place at the Camden County Museum. The 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. event includes booths set up by local craftsmen and vendors selling handmade jewelry, clothing and other gifts.
Hermann
Seven family-owned wineries take part in the Holiday Fare Wine Trail Nov. 16-17. Enjoy good wine and amazing Thanksgiving favorites as groups move from one winery to the next. Each winery offers a different dish and pairs it with the best wines they offer. Ticket includes a souvenir glass; call 800.932.8687 to purchase in advance.
Cole Camp
In Cole Camp, have a Thanksgiving Day feast and tackle a Christmas list Nov. 23. The 32nd Annual Christbaumfest (translates to "tree" from German) Craft Show will spread out within the Lutheran School and Jaycee Hall. Find more than 50 vendors and local artisans with booths set up at this show. Santa photos start at 2 p.m. Phone 660.668.3157 for details.
Kansas City
Kansas City booms with activities throughout the Thanksgiving holiday, including parades, runs and holiday lights. Listen to live music and holiday songs at Christmas in the Park. After dark, the park converts to a rainbow of colors as Christmas in the Sky illuminates the evening with fireworks. The Ward Parkway Thanksgiving Day Run rewards attendees with a little swag, including a shirt and pumpkin pie.
Branson
On Thanksgiving, take part at 8 a.m. in the eighth annual Turkey Trot 5K Branson sponsored by the Ozarks Running Club. Runners start at the Branson Landing and compete for the Gobblers Cup! Get a headstart on Christmas shopping by spending Black Friday hunting for fun must-haves and deals.
Lee’s Summit
While most towns host running events during the Thanksgiving holiday, Lee’s Summit caters to bike riders. The “Trip the Light Fantastic” is a free event where bike riders enjoy a 4 1/2-mile ride through a forest of lights. Dress up bikes with holiday decorations for a chance to win the "Best Holiday Decorated Bike."
