Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather with your loved ones, reflecting on your blessings and feasting on delicious food.
Although Thanksgiving is celebrated nationwide, the different ways it’s observed often reflect the distinct features, flavors, and traditions of each region.
From sun-soaked West Coast beaches to snowy scenes in the Central and Eastern states, Thanksgiving festivities take on unique forms shaped by their diverse geography, climates, and rich cultures.
West Coast Thanksgiving—fun in the sun and a fusion of flavors
On the West Coast—especially in California, Oregon, and Washington—Thanksgiving brings radiant sunshine and pleasant temperatures.
West Coasters often take advantage of the weather with outdoor get-togethers, beachside bonfires, or meals served al fresco alongside sweeping views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean.
The West Coast is also known for culinary creativity and cultural fusion. Traditional turkey, for example, might be paired with dishes such as miso-glazed vegetables, wild rice with cranberries, or a vegan pumpkin pie.
Here, holiday spreads often reflect the multicultural influences of their residents--Mexican, Asian, and Native American flavors all find their way onto the savory menu.
The warm weather is a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, or playing beach volleyball before sitting down to dine. “Turkey Trot” organized run/walk events help balance out the big meal ahead and usually benefit a good cause. For many, watching football or taking a well-deserved nap completes the holiday experience.
Thanksgiving in the heartland—Central U.S. celebrations
In Central regions like the Midwest and Great Plains, the Thanksgiving holiday often ushers in colder temperatures, with many areas already covered in a brilliant blanket of early-season snow.
The area embodies classic, hearty comfort food and close-knit family traditions during the holidays.
States like Illinois, Kansas, and Minnesota often include snow boots, roaring fires, and a focus on reflecting on life’s blessings with family and friends indoors.
On the Thanksgiving table, you’re likely to find serving platters loaded with traditional delectable dishes like green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.
In some areas, you may be able to sample regional specialties like corn pudding or wild game.
Football takes center stage in many Central U.S. Thanksgiving gatherings, whether that means getting cozy on the couch to watch games on the big screen or organizing a backyard matchup.
East Coast Thanksgiving: Colonial roots and coastal charm
The East Coast holds strong historical ties to the origin of Thanksgiving, especially in New England.
Towns like Plymouth celebrate with reenactments, parades, and feasts based on the origins of the holiday, complete with period-piece costumes and festive décor.
This time of year, East Coast weather ranges from crisp fall days with brightly colored leaves to a full-on wintry mix or mild coastal breezes.
East Coast Thanksgiving meals include comfort food similar to Central U.S. celebrations, but with a special regional twist—think oyster stuffing, clam chowder, and cranberry relish made with locally harvested berries.
Southeastern states often serve smoked ham or turkey, cornbread, sweet potato pie, macaroni and cheese, and pecan pie—and everyone’s invited, because Southern hospitality is key. The same is true in the East, where watching football or taking a well-deserved nap completes the holiday experience.
There’s no place like home
Whether you're gathering with your family or connecting from afar, the spirit of Thanksgiving—togetherness—endures from coast to coast.