Thanksgiving in and Around Elizabeth, New Jersey

Spend Thanksgiving in Elizabeth, New Jersey with our guide on the top activities, events, food, and more.

Whether you’re looking for restaurants open for Thanksgiving or seeking kid-friendly things to do for this holiday, we’ve got you covered with a jam-packed itinerary that’s better than a day of gravy and cranberry sauce. From seasonal events to fall activities, celebrate Thanksgiving with mouthwatering eats, unforgettable music, discounted treasures, and highly rated accommodations.

Relish Mouthwatering Dinners for Thanksgiving Day & Weekend

It’s no secret that Elizabeth is home to a variety of diverse culinary delights, where authentic bites are cooked to perfection. Why not skip the defrosting at home and let local restaurants do the cooking for you? Make your way to highly rated restaurants on Thanksgiving Day and weekend.

Tropicana Diner

Although Tropicana Diner will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, this special establishment is offering weekly specials for the fall holiday season. For a morning bite, enjoy the kalo turkey brunch—a ground turkey patty stuffed with spinach and feta cheese on a brioche bun. If you’re craving something light for dinner, try the autumn salad, which is bursting with corn, cranberries, turkey, sweet potatoes, and a homemade raspberry vinaigrette. | Location: 545 Morris Avenue

Noches de Colombia

Relish a Latin American spin on your Thanksgiving meal at Noches de Columbia! This local restaurant will be offering catering options for this Thanksgiving. Choose between a stuffed turkey with rice, salad, and natilla, or pork leg with rice and salad. Place an order and enter the chance to win a $20 gift card for Noches de Columbia (which is offered to the first 10 people). Find more information about Thanksgiving catering here. | Location: 545 Bayway Avenue

Valenca Restaurant

Authentic Portuguese cuisine and comforting Thanksgiving sides await as delectable catering options from Valenca Restaurant. From roast pernil and stuffed turkey to stuffing and pumpkin pie, customize your own Thanksgiving feast. Prices for each catering option range from $75 to $200, with servings for six to eight people. Explore the menu here. | Location: 665 Monroe Avenue

Del Porto Ristorante

Along with being featured in The Sopranos, Del Porto Ristorante shines with mouthwatering pasta, brunch bites, and more. If you’re looking for places to eat during Thanksgiving week, we recommend exploring fall specials on November 21, 2024. Imagine flavorsome appetizers, entrees cooked to perfection, and decadent treats for dessert. | Location: 91 Elizabeth Avenue

For more culinary recommendations, check out our guide on local restaurants, bars, and more.

An audience watching a live performance at the Ritz Theatre.

Watch Holiday Events & Shows

The Elizabeth area is thriving with talented performers year-round. Whether you’re looking for live music or family-friendly activities, kick off this winter season with the Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea Holiday Concert. Revel in the most wonderful time of the year by listening to Christmas carols and holiday classics. This special event will be held at 3:00 p.m. on November 30, 2024 at the Union County Performing Arts Center.

A person holds a leaf in front of the fall foliage at Warinanco Park.

Marvel at Warinanco Park’s Fall Foliage

Breathe in the fresh air as you stroll through the picturesque Warinanco Park. Here, trees of amber and ochre hues give an Instagram-worthy backdrop. Spanning over 200 acres, there’s no shortage of fun activities for all ages at this park. Before embarking on your scenic walk, we recommend getting a hot drink at a cafe like the Colombian Coffee Shop!

Bonus Activity: Spend this Thanksgiving weekend skating at Warinanco Sports Center’s ice rink! Public sessions will be held during select times on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Experience Black Friday Shopping at the Mills at Jersey Gardens

Step into the biggest indoor outlet mall in New Jersey, where unbelievable deals on your favorite brands await! For this Black Friday, explore must-have clothes, shoes, and more and take home the latest trends without breaking the bank. The Nike Factory Store, Coach, and Primark are just a few of the popular shops at The Mills at Jersey Gardens. For more information on current and upcoming deals, visit the official website of this shopping hub.

People walking through the Mills at Jersey Gardens in Elizabeth.

Treat Yourself and Your Loved Ones to a Top-Tier Stay

There is no shortage of exceptional hotels in Elizabeth. Why not make this Thanksgiving special by staying in premier-rated accommodations? Check into your home away from home and relax with modern amenities. Along with luxurious bedding, enjoy onsite bars, pet-friendly features, and flexible services.

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