The nation’s capital comes alive for the holidays, and it all starts with Thanksgiving! It’s not just about getting stuffed and watching football. The entire district welcomes the holiday season with family activities and Thanksgiving events. This year celebrate together with family and friends aboard a City Cruises yacht and take some time to focus on what is meaningful as you sail on the Potomac River for an unforgettable experience in Washington, DC!
Things to do in Washington, DC- Thanksgiving 2024
Need a break from cooking and cleaning? You have options! Free up your time by taking the work out of preparing a Thanksgiving meal. There are plenty of seasonal activities to keep you busy in the Washington, DC area, and allowing yourself to have some free time to enjoy them may be your best decision yet. Take the ones you love on a City Cruises dining cruise this year and get out of the kitchen and onto the Potomac River with incredible views of Washington, DC’s iconic landmarks while our attentive crew indulges you with culinary delights, lively entertainment, and refreshing cocktails so that you can come together for an unexpected and enjoyable Thanksgiving treat!
Imagine the hours that you will save without having to plan and shop for holiday meal items, and not having to wash dishes! You may be surprised that the district has plenty of things to do outside the home that you have never had the opportunity to enjoy before. There are holiday markets and farmer’s markets, museums, and turkey trots which benefit local charities. You may even have a little extra volunteer time, which is a meaningful way to slow down and reflect. Allow yourself to be pampered this holiday to free up some time to do what matters to you most.
There’s Always Room for Seconds Aboard a Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise in Washington, DC
To fully appreciate our Capital city, get out on the Potomac River (the second largest tributary of the Chesapeake Bay) and see it from another perspective – on the water with the Washington DC Thanksgiving Premier Dinner Cruise. Onboard you will enjoy a celebratory 3-course plated dinner with all the delicious trimmings freshly prepared by our chef, all while soaking in the beautiful and calming waters surrounding you. Gather around the table with your nearest and dearest to savor beet and baby arugula salad, seafood chowder, pan-roasted cod, braised beef short ribs, and the true star of the show-traditional turkey with all the sides you know and love that bring back all the feels. A delectable and seasonal dessert station awaits you to satisfy your sweet tooth with assorted cakes, brownies, and fresh fruit. Gather in our climate-controlled cozy interiors with the companionship of your loved ones and take in the most breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial no matter what the weather has in store. Now is your chance to get dressed up and let someone else worry while you take advantage of the fresh air, cool breezes, and music for a festive celebration. It’s also the perfect opportunity to capture a beautiful family photo on the water since you will be all dressed up anyway!
Gather for the Thanksgiving Feast with City Cruises
The weather in Washington, DC, can get chilly in the evenings, but most days have mild temperatures that make it perfect for a day out on the Potomac River. Take advantage of the fresh air and blue skies and set sail on a Washington DC Thanksgiving Afternoon Lunch Cruise for an unforgettable meal and panoramic views of our Nation’s Capital skyline. Our team will happily take care of all the details for you, leaving you to spend time with friends and family. Our professional chef will prepare salads, oven-roasted Whitefish, and hand-carved turkey accompanied by seasonal vegetables, traditional Thanksgiving fare, and delicious desserts so you can stuff yourself silly buffet style. Snap a family photo with the stunning autumn scenery as your backdrop. Enjoy a glass of wine or a creative cocktail without worrying about who’s on clean-up duty. Take the opportunity to check out onboard activities and games or get on the dance floor with live entertainment to work up an appetite for another trip around the buffet table.
Book Your Washington, DC Thanksgiving Dining Cruise Today!
Thanksgiving is all about gratitude and spending time with loved ones before the holiday rush. Treat yourself to a new experience of celebrating with family and friends on the calming waters of the Potomac River, and make plans to make this a new annual tradition for Thanksgiving in Washington, DC. Cheers to the start of the holiday season with City Cruises! If you plan on going anywhere in the city, consider the Potomac Water Taxi.
Exploring Washington, DC, and its surrounding areas by boat offers an exceptional and enjoyable experience, made even more convenient by the ease of water taxis. Take our Potomac Water Taxi, for instance. With routes connecting D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, you can effortlessly and safely explore the region while cruising along the Potomac River on a narrated sightseeing tour with your personal guide. Whether you choose the Georgetown-Alexandria route, the Georgetown-Wharf route, or the Washington Monuments route, every detail is taken care of for you, ensuring a seamless and memorable adventure.
DC Thanksgiving Fun in 2024
What are some popular 2024 Thanksgiving activities in Washington, DC?
Thanksgiving in DC can be celebrated in many ways, from attending the Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade, the only Thanksgiving parade in the DC metro area, to participating in community service like volunteering at local soup kitchens such as DC Central Kitchen or Food & Friends. For those looking to enjoy the outdoors, consider a morning cleanup at Rock Creek Park or getting active with a Turkey Trot. The holiday season also ushers in unique shopping experiences like the Holiday Market at Union Market or the Holiday Marketplace at DC Brau, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts while enjoying local snacks and brews.
Why is Thanksgiving in Washington, DC special?
DC’s combination of historical landmarks, museum exhibits, and festive activities makes Thanksgiving particularly special. The city offers countless opportunities to reflect on American history and traditions while enjoying modern celebrations and culinary delights. Whether it’s exploring the Smithsonian Museums, ice skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, or attending a concert at The Kennedy Center, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Are there any outdoor activities suitable for Thanksgiving in DC?
Yes, apart from the traditional Thanksgiving Day parades and runs, you can enjoy ice skating at venues like the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. Biking around the Tidal Basin and National Mall is another great option for those looking to enjoy the crisp fall weather while burning off Thanksgiving dinner calories. Additionally, the U.S. Botanic Gardens offers a warm escape with their annual Season’s Greetings: America’s Gardens holiday show, featuring stunning displays of greenery and a model train exhibit.
Can I experience cultural events during Thanksgiving in DC?
Absolutely. The holiday season in DC is rich with cultural events, including concerts and plays at iconic venues like The Kennedy Center and The Hamilton. DAR Constitution Hall often hosts its annual Christmas Open House, providing a blend of festive spirit and cultural enrichment.
Why is a Thanksgiving cruise in DC with City Cruises a great way to celebrate the holiday?
A Thanksgiving cruise with City Cruises offers a unique and memorable way to celebrate the holiday by combining fine dining with breathtaking views of Washington DC’s iconic landmarks. It provides a relaxing and luxurious alternative to traditional celebrations, allowing guests to enjoy a gourmet meal without the hassle of cooking or cleaning.
What can I expect on a Thanksgiving cruise in Washington, DC?
Guests can expect a festive atmosphere with special holiday menus, including traditional Thanksgiving dishes. The cruise might also feature live entertainment, such as music or a DJ, and opportunities to see Washington, DC’s landmarks illuminated in the evening light from the unique perspective of the water.
Are Thanksgiving cruises in DC suitable for families?
Yes, Thanksgiving cruises are designed to cater to guests of all ages, making them a family-friendly option. Special activities or menus for children may be offered to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience.
How long is the Thanksgiving cruise with City Cruises, and where does it go?
While specifics can vary, Thanksgiving cruises typically last a few hours, providing ample time to dine and take in the sights. The cruise route might include views of key DC landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol building along the Potomac River.
Should I book in advance for a Thanksgiving cruise in Washington, DC?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book in advance as these cruises are popular and can sell out quickly, especially for holiday events. Booking early ensures you secure your preferred date and time.
Are there other options with City Cruises if visiting for a long weekend?
Yes. City Cruises offers sightseeing options for those in for the long weekend to enjoy. See the famous monuments of Washington, D.C. from an entirely new perspective on this narrated sightseeing cruise. Travel along the Potomac River to see the plethora of famous monuments and landmarks, with stunning reflective views of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Washington Monument, the Arlington Memorial Bridge, and more.
Original Post Date: October 2, 2023