Thanksgiving Looks Different this Year, Here’s How to Celebrate in Boston

For many of us this year, Thanksgiving will look different than what we are used to. Some of us won’t be traveling to our hometowns or gathering the entire family as we normally would. It seems like more people will be sticking around the Greater Boston area for this year’s holiday. 

If this isn’t where you normally spend Thanksgiving weekend, don’t fret because the Boston area has a lot to offer this time of year. From takeout Thanksgiving dinner options to drive-in movies, we’ve compiled some of our top tips for celebrating the holiday in Boston.

Virtual Get Togethers

The safest, and easiest, thing to do is to opt for spending time with loved ones virtually. While you may not be  in the same room, you can still gather the family to eat Thanksgiving dinner and share what you’re thankful for. Virtual calls are a great way to play games, reminisce over funny family stories, and stay connected to friends and family members who live far away. 

A Cajun Thanksgiving Dinner

Spice up the usual turkey day meal with new flavors that might make it into your holiday rotation for years to come. Summer Shack, a local seafood chain, is taking a Cajun approach to their Thanksgiving takeout menu. Diners can choose from options like Cajun deep-fried turkey, mashed potatoes, butternut squash, cornbread stuffing, and an assortment of pies. Order a la carte or get their meal deal for eight people. Pickup is available between noon and 6 p.m. on November 25. Order online or call 617.520.9500 (Cambridge) or 617.867.9955 (Boston).

Outdoor Shopping on Black Friday

If you wait all year to get the best deals on Black Friday, you can still do the same this year. The Greater Boston area is home to some great outdoor shopping options. In Somerville, head to the Assembly Row mall for some outlet shopping and stay for the various outdoor dining options, complete with heaters and personal igloos. If you’re up for the drive, the Wrentham Outlets offer great discounts year-round in an outdoor setting. 

Thanksgiving BBQ

Barbecue for Thanksgiving? Why not! The Smoke Shop, a local BBQ chain with locations in Cambridge, Boston, and Somerville, is offering a barbecue inspired Thanksgiving menu, either a la carte or the full dinner spread. The menu includes turkey breast and thigh, pork loin ham, cranberry sauce, gravy, Texas toast stuffing, green bean casserole, mashed sweet potatoes, butter cake, and bourbon pecan pie. Email [email protected] for pickup on November 25.

Holiday Movies at the Drive In

This summer, drive-in movie theaters seemingly popped up everywhere — and the Greater Boston area was no exception. Just a short drive outside of Boston, the Topsfield Drive In is still airing movies this month. If you’re looking for a safe and fun activity this Thanksgiving weekend, head up there for a screening of a classic holiday movie. 

A French Twist on Thanksgiving

If you’re looking for a turkey dinner with some French flair, head to Vincent’s Grocery at Café du Pays in Kendall Square. This local French Canadian cafe and shop will be doing takeout and delivery for Thanksgiving this year. You can order confit turkey by the pound with gravy, braised brisket by the pound, fresh or frozen pork pies, potato gratin, challah stuffing, potato dinner rolls, and pies. Diners can order online in advance.

With all these options for how to spend Thanksgiving weekend in Boston, it’ll be hard to fit it all into one day! Whatever you choose to do, you’ll be guaranteed to have a delicious meal and support a local business. While this holiday season may be different from years past, we hope that those staying local can still have a safe and enjoyable day. Happy Thanksgiving!