From Forest to Feast: 10 Unique Ways to Enjoy Thanksgiving in the Pacific Northwest 

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Thanksgiving in the Pacific Northwest has a unique charm all its own, with stunning natural scenery, fresh local ingredients, and cozy vibes to enjoy. If you’re looking to celebrate Thanksgiving in a way that embraces the region’s beauty and community spirit, here are some creative ideas that make the most of all the PNW has to offer. 

1. Host an Outdoor Thanksgiving Picnic (If it’s not raining of course) 

Why stay indoors when you can celebrate surrounded by gorgeous Pacific Northwest landscapes? If the day is beautiful, bundle up and pack a Thanksgiving-inspired picnic to enjoy at a nearby scenic spot like Smith Rock State Park, the Oregon Coast, or a favorite riverfront park. Bring along blankets, a thermos filled with hot spiced cider or cocoa, and enjoy the fall colors and fresh air as you dine outdoors. 

2. Book a Cozy Cabin or Yurt for a Thanksgiving Getaway 

Escape to a cabin or yurt for a Thanksgiving retreat near areas like Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, or Bend. Cook up a simple holiday meal or order from a local eatery to bring along. You’ll have a peaceful spot to relax, read, or hike while enjoying the beautiful fall foliage in a rustic, cozy setting. 

3. Plan a Foraging Walk and Farm-to-Table Feast 

For a more adventurous Thanksgiving, try a guided foraging walk to collect wild mushrooms, berries, or other native ingredients. Many local guides offer foraging tours in Oregon and Washington, teaching you about the area’s natural resources. You can incorporate what you find into your holiday meal, adding a local, seasonal touch to your dishes. 

4. Take a Thanksgiving Wine Tasting Tour 

The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the world’s best wines, especially in the Willamette Valley and Columbia Gorge. Plan a Thanksgiving-themed wine tour, visiting wineries that offer special holiday pairings or pre-Thanksgiving dinners. Enjoy a glass of pinot noir as you soak in the autumn views of the vineyards, making for a festive and unforgettable experience. 

5. Volunteer as a Family 

Give back to the community this Thanksgiving by volunteering together at a local food pantry or community kitchen. Many organizations, like Family Kitchen in Bend, offer opportunities to serve meals to those in need. Volunteering as a family can be a heartwarming way to give thanks while making a difference in your community. 

6. Celebrate Thanksgiving at the Coast 

Spend Thanksgiving at one of the stunning beaches on the Oregon or Washington coast, where resorts and lodges often offer holiday meal packages. You’ll enjoy long beach walks, fresh coastal air, and even the chance to witness some storm-watching, a powerful spectacle during late fall on the coast. 

7. Relax at a Hot Springs Resort 

For a truly relaxing Thanksgiving, head to one of the hot springs resorts in the area, like Belknap Hot Springs or Carson Hot Springs. Many of these resorts offer Thanksgiving dinner packages, so you can soak in the hot springs, unwind, and enjoy a holiday feast all in one trip. 

8. Host a Friendsgiving with Local Flavors 

Bring friends together for a Friendsgiving with a twist! Invite each guest to make a dish that features Pacific Northwest ingredients, like hazelnut stuffing, cranberry compote, or Dungeness crab appetizers. This is a great way to celebrate with friends while exploring some of the region’s unique flavors. 

9. Take a Thanksgiving Day Hike 

Before you dig into your Thanksgiving meal, start a new tradition by going on a Thanksgiving Day hike. Some favorite local trails, like the Columbia River Gorge, Deschutes River Trail, or Cape Perpetua, offer breathtaking views and a chance to enjoy the crisp autumn air before you settle down to feast. 

10. Order Takeout from a Local Restaurant 

If you’re not up for cooking, treat yourself to takeout from a local restaurant that offers a Thanksgiving menu. Many Pacific Northwest restaurants use regional ingredients, so you’ll get to enjoy a delicious, locally-inspired meal while supporting a neighborhood business. 

Whether you’re embracing the outdoors, indulging in local flavors, or spending quality time with loved ones, there are endless ways to make Thanksgiving in the Pacific Northwest memorable. Celebrate the holiday in a way that’s uniquely PNW, enjoying the season’s beauty, community, and incredible flavors. Happy Thanksgiving! 


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