Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and reflection, but you don’t have to stay in the U.S. to enjoy this holiday.
Many countries around the world celebrate similar traditions of harvest and giving thanks, offering international travelers unique experiences during this season.
Its also most beloved holidays in the United States, but it’s not the only country where people celebrate the joy of harvest and giving thanks.
If you’re considering traveling internationally for Thanksgiving, there are many countries that either have their own version of the holiday or offer a similar spirit of gratitude and celebration.
If you’re craving a cultural experience, a relaxing getaway, or an adventure in nature, there are plenty of destinations worldwide that will make your Thanksgiving unforgettable.
Find 5 Best Places To Go For Thanksgiving International. These destinations offer beautiful scenery, unique traditions, and delicious food – perfect for celebrating the holiday away from home.
Why Celebrate Thanksgiving Internationally?
Traveling abroad during Thanksgiving can offer a new perspective on the holiday. Instead of the traditional family gathering, you can enjoy new experiences, meet people from different cultures, and even enjoy a different kind of holiday meal. International destinations give you the chance to combine holiday celebrations with vacation fun.
For example, some countries may have harvest festivals that are similar to Thanksgiving, while others might have unique ways of giving thanks that you can experience firsthand. Thanksgiving is also a time when many countries offer special discounts, events, or cultural experiences that can make your trip even more enjoyable.
So, if you’re wondering where to go this Thanksgiving, here are some of the best international destinations for a memorable holiday.
5 Best Places To Go For Thanksgiving International:
1. Canada: A Neighbor’s Harvest Celebration
Why Visit: Thanksgiving in Canada is celebrated on the second Monday in October, but the spirit of gratitude and harvest is alive year-round.
For Americans looking for a Thanksgiving getaway, Canada offers a perfect mix of familiar traditions and beautiful landscapes.
Where to Go:
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Quebec City: Quebec City is known for its charming cobblestone streets and European feel. This city offers a great atmosphere for a cozy Thanksgiving getaway. In Quebec, you can enjoy delicious fall dishes like roasted turkey with stuffing, and the city’s historic Old Town is a perfect place to take a leisurely walk while enjoying the crisp autumn air.
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Vancouver: For those who prefer a more modern, urban Thanksgiving experience, Vancouver is a wonderful option. Surrounded by mountains and water, Vancouver’s stunning natural beauty makes for a relaxing Thanksgiving vacation. Plus, there are plenty of festivals and events to check out during the fall season.
What to Expect: In Canada, Thanksgiving is primarily about family and enjoying hearty meals, much like in the U.S. Many restaurants and hotels offer Thanksgiving dinners with all the fixings.
Plus, Canada has incredible outdoor beauty, so you can enjoy a peaceful stroll or a fall hike while reflecting on what you’re thankful for.
2. Mexico: A Festive Thanksgiving Escape
Why Visit: Mexico doesn’t officially celebrate Thanksgiving, but the country offers an amazing blend of rich culture, amazing food, and gorgeous beaches – making it an ideal place to visit during the holiday.
The warm weather in Mexico offers a wonderful escape from the colder climates in the U.S.
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Mexico City: Mexico’s capital is a bustling metropolis filled with history, art, and culture. While you won’t find traditional Thanksgiving dinners, you can enjoy the Mexican Day of the Dead festivities that often take place in early November. The markets, food stalls, and parades give you the chance to experience vibrant Mexican culture.
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Cancún: If you’re craving a warm beach getaway, Cancún offers beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts. Many hotels in Cancún offer Thanksgiving meals with a Mexican twist, and you can enjoy seafood dishes along with turkey.
What to Expect: Mexico offers a mix of festive activities, amazing food, and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for unwinding during the Thanksgiving holiday.
You may not experience the typical Thanksgiving dinner, but you will have a chance to try some delicious Mexican specialties like tacos, enchiladas, and tamales.
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3. Germany: A Unique Harvest Festival Experience
Why Visit: Germany has its own way of celebrating harvest and food through festivals like Oktoberfest and Erntedankfest, which take place in the fall.
While not exactly the same as Thanksgiving, these harvest festivals are filled with food, music, and gratitude – offering an incredible way to experience German culture.
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Munich: Famous for its Oktoberfest, Munich is the perfect place to dive into German culture. During the harvest season, you can enjoy traditional Bavarian dishes like pretzels, sausages, and roasted meats, accompanied by steins of beer.
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Berlin: Berlin offers a more cosmopolitan vibe, but still boasts beautiful parks and fall festivals. You can explore the city’s vibrant food scene, which offers hearty fall meals that will make you feel like you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, even if it’s not the same holiday.
What to Expect: In Germany, fall festivals are a time for celebrating the harvest and indulging in hearty foods.
While you might not find the traditional turkey, you’ll be treated to delicious sausages, sauerkraut, and seasonal beers.
The festive atmosphere in Germany will give you a unique way to celebrate gratitude during the holiday season.
4. Italy: A Feast for the Senses
Why Visit: Italy offers an incredible food-focused experience, especially during the fall when harvest festivals and culinary events are in full swing.
While Thanksgiving is not celebrated in Italy, you can enjoy a festive holiday meal, including delicious pastas, pizzas, and wine.
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Florence: Florence is a wonderful destination for a Thanksgiving getaway if you enjoy art, history, and food. Florence’s Tuscan cuisine is known for its rich flavors, and you can experience incredible seasonal dishes like roasted chestnuts, olive oil-based pastas, and hearty soups.
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Rome: For a bustling and culturally rich experience, Rome is ideal. You can enjoy a Thanksgiving feast with an Italian twist, such as roasted lamb or pumpkin risotto, and then explore the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Colosseum, Vatican, and Trevi Fountain.
What to Expect: Italy’s culinary traditions are second to none. In the fall, you’ll find an abundance of seasonal ingredients like mushrooms, truffles, and squash.
While Thanksgiving isn’t an official holiday in Italy, you can enjoy a festive meal surrounded by beautiful historical sites.
5. Australia: A Thanksgiving Summer Adventure
Why Visit: Thanksgiving falls in the fall season in the Northern Hemisphere, but in Australia, it’s spring, and the weather is warm and inviting.
While Thanksgiving isn’t celebrated in Australia, the country has a vibrant food scene and beautiful natural attractions that make it a great choice for a relaxing holiday.
Where to Go:
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Sydney: Sydney offers a perfect mix of beaches, city life, and stunning views. While you won’t find a traditional Thanksgiving meal, you can enjoy fresh seafood, grilled meats, and Australian specialties like meat pies.
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Great Barrier Reef: If you’re looking for a nature-based Thanksgiving getaway, consider heading to the Great Barrier Reef. You can enjoy the crystal-clear waters, tropical fish, and stunning coral reefs.
What to Expect: With its beautiful beaches, relaxed vibe, and wonderful food, Australia is a great place to unwind during Thanksgiving.
While it may not be a traditional Thanksgiving experience, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to reflect on the things you’re grateful for in a laid-back atmosphere.
