Fall is an amazing time to be on Cape Cod! Even though cold weather can blow in during late fall and winter, Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to stay in the area or visit and enjoy the festivities. After all, Thanksgiving was born right here on Cape Cod.
ANNUAL PILGRIM MONUMENT LIGHTING
Provincetown’s iconic Pilgrim Monument lights up to mark the Pilgrims’ first landing in America. This radiant tradition on Cape Cod signals the start of the holiday season, drawing both locals and visitors for a shared moment of reflection and gratitude.
PLYMOUTH THANKSGIVING PARADE
Plymouth, “America’s Hometown,” showcases a grand Thanksgiving parade that combines history with modern festivity. This year, the weekend before Thanksgiving will include not only the parade, but also the Plymouth Philharmonic orchestra, a hometown festival, and finishes off with a concert. Detailed floats, re-enactors, and marching bands traverse the streets, celebrating Plymouth’s rich heritage and the legacy of the Mayflower Pilgrims.
HARVEST MARKETS
Also coinciding with Thanksgiving festivities, Plymouth’s Harvest Market comes alive from 11AM-4PM on November 19th 2023 with local produce, crafts, and treats. The market, a feast for the senses, offers a snapshot of the season’s bounty, making it a go-to for those seeking fresh ingredients and unique holiday gifts.
CHATHAM TURKEY TROT
The annual Chatham Turkey Trot takes place on November 23rd 2023 at 8:00AM. Registration is open. The Turkey Trot is a great way to give back to the local community (and stay in shape)! All money and groceries raised for the event are donated to the Lower Cape Outreach Council.
CHATHAM CHEESE SHOP
If you’re looking for something unique to bring as a host gift or even wanting something special for yourself, The Chatham Cheese Company is the perfect place to go. They are a gourmet food shop featuring artisanal cheeses and a great selection of wines to pair with them.
THANKSGIVING DESSERTS
For your desert needs, we recommend Marion’s Pie Shop in Chatham, MA. The local bakery specializes in pies of all types, which are perfect for Thanksgiving. However, this is their busiest season of the year – they predict their line will be a quarter mile long on Thanksgiving morning. We recommend placing your order now!
WHAT ARE THANKSGIVING SERVICES?
Simplified is always here to help with the Thanksgiving planning—whether you are a local or a visitor, we want to make sure your holiday is memorable and stress free. Below is a list of how our team can help.
- Pre-Thanksgiving grocery shopping.
- Holiday decorating.
- Restaurant reservations.
- Find a house rental for you or guests.
- Research and booking family activities.
GET HELP PREPARING YOUR CAPE COD THANKSGIVING DINNER
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in November 2017 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.