Thanksgiving may have its roots in colonial era New England, but we’re partial to our West Coast take on the holiday. If an average temperature is 67° and ocean views aren’t enough proof for you, here are a few other compelling reasons we’re looking forward to Thanksgiving in Santa Monica.
Classical music and breakfast at The Broad
On the Sunday before Thanksgiving, take a break from prep-work and head to The Broad for an installment of its beloved concert series, Beethoven, Bagels & Banter. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh-made bagels while a chamber quartet performs works from Classical masters. The Broad: 1310 11th Street; 310-434-3200
The pre-feast Turkey Trot
Like most major cities, Santa Monica has an annual Turkey Trot. Find your reindeer antlers or fashion yourself a red snood in preparation for this year’s jaunt. Unlike most cities, you should be able to wear shorts and a tank top, and the course starts on beautiful Ocean Avenue, looping around a scenic beach path.
The post-Turkey walks
After Thanksgiving dinner—and maybe a nap—we love to stretch our legs. Thankfully, walking and hiking options abound. From a simple walk through the quiet neighborhood or a beachside stroll to some of L.A.’s best hiking. It’s the perfect way to revive after a filling meal.
The ice skating
Every holiday season, the city of Santa Monica opens up ICE at Santa Monica, an 8,000 square foot skating rink, transforming the downtown area into a winter paradise. In Santa Monica, you can enjoy a romantic glide around a rink without negative temperatures, frostbite or driving through snow.
The laughs
Whether it’s a stand-up or sketch show from Westside Comedy or David Sedaris’s hilarious tales of working as an elf at Macy’s, the week surrounding Thanksgiving is the perfect time to sneak in a few extra laughs in Santa Monica. At Santa Monica Playhouse, actor Patrick Censoplano stars in the acclaimed SantaLand Diaries, a one-man show based on Sedaris’s legendary essay. We hear belly laughs are great for working off that extra helping of stuffing.