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 21-22, 2026
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 21-22. 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 21-22, 2026
Also happening the weekend before Thanksgiving, is the 2026 Fall Festival of the Arts DeLand on November 21-22. 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 25-29, 2026
If it's Thanksgiving weekend, it's time for the Turkey Run at Daytona International Speedway. The 53rd annual Daytona Turkey Run is back for another year of classic cars, hard-to-find accessories, handmade gifts, and family fun. New for 2026, the fun starts on Wednesday, giving car enthusiasts five days to enjoy thousands of classic and custom cars, a massive swap meet, Car Corral and more.
Magic of Lights
November 20-January 2, 2027
Magic of Lights will make its much-anticipated return to Daytona International Speedway as the “World Center of Racing” will once again transform into a dazzling winter wonderland, complete with a stunning drive-through holiday lights spectacular. Operating Nov. 20 through Jan. 2 and utilizing more than two million lights, visitors can enjoy the most beloved holiday scenes without ever leaving their vehicle, from the whimsical Prehistoric Christmas and enchanting Winter Wonderland to the timeless 12 Days of Christmas, cheerful Toyland, playful festive Elves and the magnificent Reindeer Road. They will also drive through the 400-foot Enchanting Tunnel of Lights, plus several more illuminated tunnels that carry guests into a world of holiday wonder.
Signature attractions bring the show to life, including the towering 32-foot animated Mattel’s Waving Christmas Barbie®, and the iconic BIGFOOT® Monster Truck display. Families can also step out of the car and stroll through the magical Jolly Holiday Village, a wonderland of walk-through attractions featuring brand-new inflatables alongside a full lineup of festive activities.
Find Steals and Deals
If you’re looking to combine being outdoors and shopping, there are lots of great options! Head over to Tanger-Daytona Beach 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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