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Spend Thanksgiving in Plymouth, MA

Holiday

November 3, 2022

Plymouth, Massachusetts, also known as America’s Hometown, is where the Pilgrims first stepped down from the Mayflower and where the famous First Thanksgiving took place. Today, the community continues to celebrate the city’s grand history and offers various celebrations during the holiday season. Whether you’re looking for a parade, a delicious traditional meal or want to view historic landmarks, Plymouth is the place to spend Thanksgiving. 

America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade

America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade is a beloved celebration which stands tribute to the nation’s origin. Spectators from all over come to Plymouth on the Saturday before Thanksgiving to take part in the festivities and watch America’s only historically accurate parade. 

Beginning at Plymouth Rock, the parade is made up of local heroes, leaders, organizations, schools, bands and other community members who put together floats, reenactments, instrumental performances and march through the streets of Plymouth. 

It’s a celebration that gathers together locals, surrounding communities and visitors, much like the First Thanksgiving brought together the natives and Pilgrims. It provides the opportunity to enjoy a great day outside, eat delicious food, learn a bit about Plymouth’s history, and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the birthplace of Thanksgiving. 

Historic Village

Directly following the parade, transport yourself to the early 17th and mid-20th centuries where Pilgrims, Native Americans, Soldiers, Patriots, and Pioneers roam the streets of Plymouth. America’s hometown “Portal to the Past” Historic Village offers an immersive experience into the past.

With reenactors and interpreters guiding you through their performances, you will be met with a plethora of knowledge and entertainment. Witness captivating demonstrations, meet historical figures and learn from craftsmen who skillfully forge ironware, pottery, and period trade items. 

Plimoth Patuxet

If there is one thing everyone enjoys about Thanksgiving, it’s the food. Every family has their own signature meals they serve that day, but there is little that can beat a truly authentic Thanksgiving dinner.

Each fall, Plimoth Patuxet Museums proudly present the highly sought-after Thanksgiving dining experiences. You have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a culinary journey filled with the freshest ingredients, tantalizing flavors, and a festive ambiance that is truly one-of-a-kind. 

You have the option to attend either a homestyle buffet dinner or opt for the signature “The Story of Thanksgiving” dinner. Either way, you’ll be able to drown yourself in cornbread, turkey, homemade gravy, Cape Cod cranberry sauce, stuffing, pies and so much more.

Learn about the story of the first Thanksgiving as well as the contributions of both the Pilgrims and the Indigenous Tribes. Delight in the unique blend of history and gastronomy and make your holiday dining unforgettable. This is one of the most popular events of the season so be sure to reserve your tickets in advance before they sell out!Wampanoag person cooking cranberries

Mayflower II

Open through the first Sunday after Thanksgiving, Mayflower II is perfect to visit during your Thanksgiving celebration. Not only is the ship right across the street from the beginning of the parade, but she is also the centerpiece of Plymouth Harbor and a true symbol of freedom.

If you’re curious about the living conditions of those traveling aboard the Mayflower and what the innards of the ship looked like, look no further than Mayflower II. You get a fully immersive experience aboard the ship and various learning opportunities prior to boarding. 

Plymouth Rock

It wouldn’t be a Thanksgiving trip to Plymouth without going to see Plymouth Rock. This iconic landmark marks the legendary landing site of the Mayflower Pilgrims in 1620 and it’s viewed by over one million visitors each year.

Did you know that the Rock is actually split into multiple different pieces? One piece that you can see up close and touch is displayed at Pilgrim Hall Museum.