Turkey day is almost here! Do you have a Thanksgiving tradition with your friends or family? Maybe you go to a movie together, run a race before eating that big dinner, or just take a walk through one of the many Twin Cities area parks? Whether you’re looking to start a tradition or just looking to have fun on Thanksgiving and over the holiday weekend, here are some great ideas for things to do in the Twin Cities area.

HOLIDAZZLE

Although Holidazzle was recently changed a bit, it still begins the day after Thanksgiving. This year, the festivities will happen in Loring Park. There’ll be food, fireworks, performances, shopping and more. Find out more: http://www.downtownmpls.com/news_article/show/557112?referrer_id=1285815

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Going to see A Christmas Carol at the Guthrie is a fantastic way to enjoy your Thanksgiving weekend with loved ones and start your Christmas holiday season! The show begins on November 12th and runs through December 27th. Here are the details:http://www.guthrietheater.org/plays_events/plays/_christmas_carol

KEYS CAFE

Keys Cafe is a staple around the Cities. Some of their locations are open on Thanksgiving day, so you can go enjoy a coffee and pastry in the morning, or even have Thanksgiving lunch there! They will also prep a full Thanksgiving dinner for six for you to take home, if you’re not interested in cooking it yourself. Whether you go on Thanksgiving or head over for a weekend meal, you’ll love some family time at Keys. Thanksgiving Day details: http://www.keyscafe.com/thanksgiving-catering

GO FOR A RUN!

Run, walk or gobble your way through a 5K on Thanksgiving morning to make lots of room for that big dinner! There are several different opportunities around the Twin Cities to take part in a run/walk. Find them here: http://minneapolisrunning.com/2015-november-minnesota-race-guide/#.VjzoKKL5SXQ

VOLUNTEER

For those that aren’t fortunate enough to afford a big Thanksgiving meal with family, the holidays can be a tough time of year. There are many opportunities around the Twin Cities to volunteer your time or your money to those in need. Find some opportunities here:http://minneapolis.about.com/od/lifestyles/tp/volunteeratthanksgiving.htm

OTHER MINNESOTA THANKSGIVING ACTIVITIES

Planning on being in Minnesota around Thanksgiving but not the Cities? Here are some events that are happening in Greater Minnesota to check out!

Bemidji Night We Light
http://www.visitbemidji.com/winter/events/

New Ulm Parade of Lights
http://business.newulm.com/events/details/parade-of-lights-15532

Christmas at the Mansions & Santa Day Parade in Little Falls
http://www.littlefallsmn.com/events-calendar.php

Rochester Mayowood Tour
http://www.olmstedhistory.com/mayowood-mansion/christmas-tours-2/