Thanksgiving Day 2025 in Nassau County – Things To Do, Where To Eat, And How To Plan Your Day

Welcome to your complete local guide for making Thanksgiving Day 2025 a breeze. This year, the big day falls on Thursday, November 27, and we've put together the ultimate playbook for celebrating right here in Nassau County.

Forget the generic advice. This is for us. Whether you're planning the perfect family dinner in Garden City, trying to find a pre-feast 5K in Port Washington, or just want to know which restaurants in Jericho are actually open, you’ve come to the right place. This guide is your go-to resource for navigating the holiday weekend, covering everything from turkey trots and local events to dining out, takeout, and low-stress family ideas. From the North Shore gems of Glen Cove and Oyster Bay to the South Shore hubs of Rockville Centre and Massapequa, we're covering all the bases to help you pull off a memorable Thanksgiving.

For a complete rundown of everything happening that week, be sure to check out our guide to events in Nassau from November 24th to November 30th.

Quick Thanksgiving 2025 Nassau Cheat Sheet

Here's everything you need to know at a glance to get your planning started.

• Holiday Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025.

• Typical Weather: Expect classic Long Island late-November weather—crisp and chilly, especially in the morning. Dressing in layers is always a smart move for any outdoor activities.

• Closures Reminder: Most schools, banks, and government offices will be closed. Be sure to check your local town and village sanitation schedules for any holiday changes to garbage and recycling pickups.

• Planning Pro-Tip: Book restaurant reservations and travel well in advance. The most popular spots and travel times fill up fast, so a little early planning goes a long way.

Turkey Trots and Runs In and Around Nassau County 🦃👟

There’s something special about starting Thanksgiving Day 2025 with a brisk run. For thousands of families across Nassau County, it’s a non-negotiable tradition—the perfect excuse to get some fresh air, see friendly faces, and build up an appetite before settling in for the big feast.

Whether you're a serious runner chasing a personal best or just looking for a fun walk with the kids, there's a turkey trot in the 516 that's perfect for you. Just don't wait to sign up! These races are incredibly popular and many have registration caps that sell out weeks ahead of time.

Thanksgiving Morning Races (Thursday, Nov. 27)

These are the classic races happening bright and early on Thanksgiving Day, kicking off the holiday with a huge dose of community spirit.

Garden City Turkey Trot – Garden City

• Location: Kicks off Thanksgiving morning at St. Paul's Recreation Complex.

• Races: Features a Challenger race, a 1.4-mile fun run, and a competitive 5-mile main race.

• Best For: Literally everyone. It's one of Long Island’s biggest Thanksgiving road races, drawing families, serious runners, and kids.

Port Washington Thanksgiving Day 5 Mile Run – Port Washington

• Location: A classic five-mile race through Port Washington and Sands Point that has run for decades.

• Charity: Benefits the Community Chest of Port Washington and multiple local charities.

• Best For: Runners who love a strong community feel. The course is challenging, and spectators line the route to cheer everyone on.

Glen Cove Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk – Glen Cove

• Location: Starts at Glen Cove High School.

• Races: A family-friendly 5K with a great post-race atmosphere.

• Charity: Benefits the Glen Cove Education Foundation.

Massapequa Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot 5K – Massapequa

• Location: A morning fun run and 5K held at John J. Burns Park.

• Best For: Families and casual runners who want a flat, fast course before the big meal.

North Shore Turkey Trot 5K – Glen Head

• Location: A 5K plus kids' fun run at the North Shore Community Youth Organization fields.

• Best For: Those looking for a neighborhood vibe and a fun post-race hang out.

Oyster Bay Turkey Trot By the Bay – Oyster Bay

• Location: A scenic course right by the water.

• Races: Branded as one of the longest-running trots in the region.

Thanksgiving Week and Weekend Runs

• Nassau County 5K Turkey Trot at Eisenhower Park – East Meadow: Often takes place in early November, serving as a perfect warm-up for the holiday season.

• EisnerAmper 5K Turkey Trot to Feed Long Island – Eisenhower Park: This huge charity race on Saturday, Nov. 22, raises critical funds for Long Island's food banks.

• Massapequa Park Turkey Trot – Brady Park: Held the Saturday before Thanksgiving, this race features a stroller-friendly course and delicious pies as prizes.

• Leftover Turkey Trail Trot 5K – Bethpage State Park: Work off the feast on Saturday, Nov. 29, with this fun trail 5K that also includes a free kids' dash.

Thanksgiving Themed Experiences and History 🎩

For a unique and educational family outing, step back in time at Old Bethpage Village Restoration’s “1863 Thanksgiving Day Celebration,” scheduled for Saturday, November 29th, and Sunday, November 30th. This event offers a fascinating look at how the holiday was observed during the Civil War era.

Families with kids will love the live cooking demonstrations over open fires, while history buffs will appreciate the period-accurate customs and reenactments. It's an immersive experience that brings local history to life. While you're there, keep their popular December Candlelight Evenings on your radar as another fantastic local tradition to look forward to after Thanksgiving.

Where to Eat Out on Thanksgiving Day 2025 in and Near Nassau 🍽️

Sometimes the best part of Thanksgiving is skipping the hours of prep work and the mountain of dirty dishes. Taking the family out for dinner on Thursday, November 27 can be a fantastic way to relax and focus on what the day is really about—enjoying each other's company. Remember to book early, as tables for these popular feasts get snapped up weeks, if not months, in advance.

Heads-Up: Always confirm 2025 pricing, menus, and seating times directly with the restaurant, as details are often finalized in the fall.

Milleridge Inn – Jericho

A true Nassau County institution, the Milleridge Inn typically hosts a Grand Thanksgiving Buffet with multiple afternoon seatings. With its charming old village setting, shops, and decor, it's a premium experience perfect for large family gatherings. They also offer a complete take-home dinner option.

Davenport Press – Mineola

Set inside a historic old bank building, Davenport Press offers a cozy, traditional atmosphere. They usually serve a classic prix-fixe turkey dinner, making it a wonderful choice for those who love old-world charm.

The Capital Grille – Garden City

For an upscale, celebratory vibe, this renowned steakhouse offers a special Thanksgiving menu alongside its regular steakhouse classics. It’s a great fit for multi-generational family dinners or smaller celebratory groups looking for a premium holiday price point.

Seasons 52 – Garden City

Located at Roosevelt Field, Seasons 52 offers a seasonal American Thanksgiving dinner. It's a great, slightly more casual option that still feels special, and they typically offer complete take-home family dinners as well.

A Short Drive, But Worth It

• East End & North Fork: Places like Hotel Indigo East End in Riverhead or East Wind in Wading River are known for lavish holiday buffets.

• North Shore Suffolk: For dinner with a view, consider Danfords on the water in Port Jefferson or the elegant Mirabelle Restaurant in Stony Brook.

Takeout, Catering, and Supermarket Options 🥧

Many Nassau families are choosing a less stressful path by ordering part—or all—of their holiday feast. It's a great way to mix and match: order the turkey and a few key sides, then cook a couple of your own signature dishes at home.

• Complete Dinners: The Milleridge Inn in Jericho has its take-home dinner program down to a science, offering a full heat-and-serve feast.

• Gourmet Sides & More: Specialty grocers like Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace are a goldmine for delicious, pre-made sides, from gourmet mac and cheese to perfectly roasted vegetables and incredible pies.

No matter what you decide, the number one rule is to order early. These places are popular for a reason and have firm order deadlines, often a week or more before the big day.

Non-Traditional Ideas and Kid-Friendly Activities Open on Thanksgiving 🎳

If you’re looking to get out of the house on Thanksgiving Day 2025, a few local spots usually keep their doors open.

• Round1 Bowling & Arcade (Hicksville): Located at Broadway Commons, this massive entertainment center offers bowling, arcade games, karaoke, and more, making it a solid bet for keeping all ages happy.

• Dave & Buster’s (Westbury): Another classic for a reason, this spot blends a restaurant with a sprawling arcade for high-energy fun.

You can also consider a movie, a brisk walk at a local park, or simple at-home activities like a board game marathon or watching football with a great snack spread. Always confirm local holiday hours directly with any venue before you go.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for Nassau Residents 🎈

For many of us, the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on the morning of Thursday, November 27, is a non-negotiable tradition. You can watch it live on NBC and Peacock from the comfort of your home, timing it perfectly with your cooking prep.

If you're heading into Manhattan, take the LIRR to avoid gridlock. The best viewing spots along Central Park West or in Midtown fill up before sunrise, so arrive very early and dress in layers. An early afternoon train back to Nassau will get you home in plenty of time for dinner.

Giving Back and Volunteering Locally 🤝

The holiday is the perfect time to support our neighbors. Many local events have a charity component baked right in.

• The Port Washington Thanksgiving Day 5 Mile Run is a major fundraiser for the Community Chest of Port Washington.

• The EisnerAmper 5K Turkey Trot at Eisenhower Park is organized specifically to raise funds for Long Island's food banks.

You can also make a direct impact by donating funds or non-perishable items to incredible organizations like Long Island Cares and Island Harvest Food Bank, or by bringing food items to designated race drop-offs. Your contribution can make a world of difference for a local family. For those looking to get more hands-on, there are numerous volunteer opportunities for retirees and families.

Practical Travel, Hosting, and Weather Tips for Nassau

• Travel: Expect heavy traffic if driving to or from Manhattan, Queens, or Brooklyn. The Long Island Expressway and parkways will also be congested heading east toward the Hamptons or North Fork.

• Weather: Plan for chilly late-November weather on Long Island, with cold mornings and the possibility of wind or rain.

• Hosting Checklist: Remember the small details: ensure you have enough parking and seating, set up a kids' table, have leftover containers ready, and consider any accessibility needs for older relatives. Check AAA's 2025 Thanksgiving travel forecast for more detailed predictions.

Your Top Thanksgiving Day 2025 Questions, Answered

What day is Thanksgiving in 2025?

Thanksgiving Day 2025 falls on Thursday, November 27.

What are the best turkey trots in Nassau County on Thanksgiving Day 2025?

The most popular races on Thanksgiving morning are the Garden City Turkey Trot and the Port Washington Thanksgiving Day 5 Mile Run. You'll also find great community runs in Glen Cove, Massapequa, and Oyster Bay.

Where can I eat Thanksgiving dinner out in Nassau County?

For a classic buffet, the Milleridge Inn in Jericho is a top choice. For an upscale meal, consider The Capital Grille in Garden City, or for a cozy, traditional feel, try Davenport Press in Mineola. Book your table early!

What is open on Thanksgiving Day 2025 on Long Island for families?

While most places close, entertainment venues like Round1 Bowling & Arcade in Hicksville and Dave & Buster’s in Westbury are often open. Local parks are also great for a family walk. Always call ahead to confirm holiday hours.

Can I see the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and still get back to Nassau for dinner?

Yes, absolutely! The key is to take an early LIRR train into the city. After the parade, you can catch an early afternoon train back to Nassau County with plenty of time to spare before dinner.

We hope this guide helps you plan a wonderful and stress-free holiday. If you found it helpful, please consider sharing it with friends, neighbors, or in your local group chats.

Do you have other great local Thanksgiving tips, events, or restaurant recommendations? Send them our way! We love featuring hyper-local suggestions from our readers in future editions. For more Nassau County news and events, subscribe to the 516 Update newsletter at https://516update.com.