It’s hard to believe it, but Thanksgiving is right around the corner! If you’re coming into town for a fall beach getaway, Daytona Beach offers many fun and festive events surrounding the holiday. Here’s everything you need to know while planning your Thanksgiving in Daytona Beach.
What to do
Riverfest Seafood Festival
November 15-16, 2025
If you’re in town the week leading up to Thanksgiving, you'll want to check out the Annual Ormond Beach Riverfest Seafood Festival, a free two-day community celebration November 15-16. Whether you prefer active water play or just sitting back and enjoying the view with a plate of fresh seafood, Riverfest has something for everyone to love. Admission is free. There’s music all day long on the main stage, plenty to eat, draft beer, and lots of vendors.
DeLand Fall Festival of the Arts
November 22-23, 2025
Also happening the weekend before Thanksgiving, is the 2025 Fall Festival of the Arts DeLand on November 22-23. This free, two-day event will take over the majority of Woodland Boulevard in historic downtown DeLand, a short drive just west of Daytona Beach. Come soak in the bright colors of fall as you peruse displays of fine art presented by over 160 juried artists from all over the country - paintings, sculpture, glass, jewelry, leather, photography, printmaking, wood, ceramics and fiber.
Daytona Turkey Run
November 27-30, 2025
If it's Thanksgiving weekend, it's time for the Turkey run at Daytona International Speedway. The 52nd annual Daytona Turkey Run is back for another year of classic cars, hard-to-find accessories, handmade gifts, and family fun. This favorite Daytona Beach tradition will take place on November 27-30. As the largest combined collector car show and swap meet in the United States, there will be thousands of classic cars on display, plus collector parts, unique gifts, and a crafts bazaar. The event takes place on the infield of the iconic Daytona International Speedway from Thursday through Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend each year, and there’s something for all ages to enjoy. From looking at all the classic cars to finding the perfect Christmas gift, you won’t want to miss out!
Magic of Lights
November 21-January 3, 2026
If you're ready to get in the holiday spirit, check out the Magic of Lights at Daytona International Speedway, which begins November 21 and runs through January 3, 2026. This vibrant drive-through holiday-themed light display features dozens of displays, festive favorites, and digital animation, all constructed with millions of individual LED lights to create a memorable holiday experience for the whole family. Experience the wonder of Magic of Lights' most treasured holiday scenes from the warmth and comfort of your vehicle, including the whimsical Prehistoric Christmas, enchanting Winter Wonderland, the classic 12 Days of Christmas, delightful Toyland, playful festive Elves, and the magnificent Reindeer Road. Journey through the awe-inspiring 400-foot Enchanting Tunnel of Lights alongside additional captivating illuminated tunnels that will transport you into a world of holiday splendor.
One thing not to be missed is the magical Reindeer Rest Stop (new for 2025), where families can step out of their vehicles and explore a wonderland of walk-through attractions featuring festive foods & photo opportunities for the whole family, and an array of delightful holiday activities.
Expedition: Dinosaur
The Museum of Arts & Sciences invites visitors to journey into the age of the dinosaurs with Expedition: Dinosaur, a thrilling new exhibition on view from October 11, 2025, through March 29, 2026. This immersive experience combines life-like animatronic dinosaurs, exciting interactives, and hands-on educational activities that bring the prehistoric world to life.
Imagine standing before meat-eating velociraptors or coming face-to-face with a towering, long-necked herbivore. With over a dozen realistic, animatronic dinosaurs—complete with lifelike movement, soundscapes, and special effects—Expedition: Dinosaur creates the unforgettable sensation of walking among these ancient giants.
Find Steals and Deals
If you’re looking to combine being outdoors and shopping there are lots of great options! Head over to Tanger Outlets at the I95/LPGA Boulevard interchange and explore ONE DAYTONA, the retail, dining and entertainment district directly across from Daytona International Speedway. Following that, you can find unique locally-owned businesses at the Shop Small Saturday Artisan Market in downtown Ormond Beach and explore the Riverfront Shops and eateries in downtown Daytona Beach.
Where to Stay
Whether you are getting away for a quiet beach weekend for two or holding a reunion with your extended family, Daytona Beach has accommodation options for Thanksgiving crews of all shapes and sizes. If you're looking for special packages then you'll want to check out these deals!
Where to Eat
If you don’t feel like doing dishes on Thanksgiving — and let’s be honest, who ever wants to do dishes? — there are a number of local restaurants that are happy to provide a warm meal and friendly atmosphere.
Watch video: Choose from a wide variety of delicious dining options right on the Daytona Beach waterfront.
Choose sunny skies and beach breezes this Thanksgiving — start planning your trip today!
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