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This year’s theme is, “It won’t look like normal” and Thanksgiving, Small Business Saturday, and all the fun that normally occurs over the weekend is no exception.  But, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a great time!  We’ve rounded up plenty of ways to enjoy Thanksgiving weekend in the year 2020.

Thanksgiving at Home

A big Thanksgiving get together isn’t in the cards this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your favorite holiday treats!  If you’re looking for baked goods, we have you covered.  Pies from Kathy’s Korner, Dumplings from Brinkman’s, Cookies from Main Street Deli, Cupcakes from Buggy Whip, Brownies from Baker’s Cafe, and, of course, Butterflake Rolls from The Baking Company and Bread Kneads.  

Thanksgiving, like everything else, won't look like normal in 2020 but there are still plenty of ways you can celebrate safely! • VisitFindlay.com

Don’t forget the rolls!

If you need more traditional Thanksgiving fare, Mancy’s Steakhouse has Thanksgiving To-Go!  Get a full meal to be enjoyed at home, pre-order required by Tuesday, November 24!

Family Traditions

Thanksgiving Weekend kicks off so many holiday traditions for families, including the City of Findlay Tree Lighting Ceremony, Santa’s House, North Pole Express, and much more.  All those events are still happening, but (say it together) they won’t look the same this year.  

If you look forward to giving Thanksgiving a running start with Turkey Trot, you can still do so!  WRC’s Turkey Trot is taking place virtually, but awards will still be given for several categories, like Clever Costume, Furry Friend, and Family Fun Foto – so get dressed up and get running!

Thanksgiving, like everything else, won't look like normal in 2020 but there are still plenty of ways you can celebrate safely! • VisitFindlay.com

The race is virtual, but costumes are still encouraged!

The City of Findlay Tree Lighting Ceremony will be taking place virtually and will be streamed on the Mayor’s Facebook page on November 27 at 6 p.m.!  North Pole Express begins November 27 and will be as normal as possible in COVID times, with rides still taking place on the weekends through NWORRP’s beautifully decorated grounds.  You will be able to still wander through the trees in the Train Barn, modified this year to have more space to socially distance. 

Thanksgiving, like everything else, won't look like normal in 2020 but there are still plenty of ways you can celebrate safely! • VisitFindlay.com

The North Pole Express rides on!

Santa’s House is Santa’s Mailbox this year!  The big man in red is safely stowed away in the North Pole awaiting Christmas Eve, so he asked Kiwanis elves to collect letters on  his behalf.  From November 20 – December 14 children can drop off letters at Trends! on Main or Smarty Pants in Downtown Findlay and will receive a reply from Santa himself! 

Thanksgiving, like everything else, won't look like normal in 2020 but there are still plenty of ways you can celebrate safely! • VisitFindlay.com

Santa is staying in the North Pole so be sure to write him a letter! Santa’s Mailbox letters can be dropped off at Trends! on Main and Smarty Pants in Downtown Findlay

Bluffton Blaze of Lights is spreading the fun throughout several weeks, rather than just one day.  From Small Business Saturday through the New Year, the Blaze of Lights display, including the Ream folk art collection, will be illuminated at Bluffton Presbyterian Church.  The following weekend on December 5 the residential lights contest kicks off, complete with a map from the Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, along with other great events!

Thanksgiving, like everything else, won't look like normal in 2020 but there are still plenty of ways you can celebrate safely! • VisitFindlay.com

The Blaze of Lights in Bluffton will be illuminated beginning on Small Business Saturday through the New Year

Shop Local!

For many, the highlight of Thanksgiving weekend is completing your holiday shopping and that can still definitely be done and you can support your local shops!  Did you know that for every dollar you spend at a local shop 2/3 of it stays in our community?  You can make a huge difference in our community by simply purchasing even just a few of your Christmas gifts locally.  

Small Business Saturday on November 28 is a great chance to kickstart your shopping.  Many businesses are participating with special deals, extended hours, and some fun giveaways.  If Cyber Monday is more your jam, you can still support your neighbors by visiting their websites  or attending their Live Shows while wearing your PJs.  

Thanksgiving, like everything else, won't look like normal in 2020 but there are still plenty of ways you can celebrate safely! • VisitFindlay.com

Get your shopping done over Thanksgiving weekend, whether in-person or online!

At the end of the day (or weekend!) we are lucky to live in a great community full of wonderful people.  At Visit Findlay we are thankful for YOU!  Have a great holiday, mask up, and stay safe!

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