Waynesboro and Staunton, Virginia have a full schedule of events and opportunities over the Thanksgiving weekend. From turkey trots and craft breweries to stunning light displays and live music, there is something for everyone. Book a room at the Iris Inn, forget about the stress of a family dinner, and forge ahead with a new Thanksgiving tradition in Central Virginia.
Start Your Thanksgiving Morning with a Turkey Trot
What better way to work up an appetite for turkey dinner than participating in a traditional Turkey Trot? This Thanksgiving, you have two excellent options to choose from in the area.
The Waynesboro Family YMCA Turkey Trot kicks off at 9 am on November 27, offering a family-friendly race that brings the community together. If you prefer a slightly earlier start, head over to Staunton for the Valley Children’s Advocacy Center’s 14th Annual Club of Staunton Turkey Trot Run/Walk, which begins at 8:30 am. This beloved event not only gets your heart pumping but also supports a wonderful cause. Both races are perfect for all fitness levels, whether you’re a serious runner or just looking for a fun way to spend the morning with family and friends.
Explore Living History at the Frontier Culture Museum
For those seeking an educational and immersive experience, the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton is open daily throughout the weekend (though closed on Thanksgiving Day itself). As the biggest open-air living history museum in the Shenandoah Valley and one of Virginia’s top tourist destinations, this attraction offers something truly special.
Costumed historical interpreters bring history to life, demonstrating the customs and daily lives of indigenous Native American tribes, German, English, and Irish settlers who traveled the Great Wagon Road, and the enslaved Africans who made the painful journey to America’s first permanent British colony. Visitors can interact with blacksmiths at an Irish Forge, watch woodworkers and tailors at their craft, observe yarn spinning, and learn how early American settlers cooked and worked the land. It’s an enriching experience that the whole family will remember.
Celebrate at Stable Craft Brewing’s Weekend-Long Festival
Stable Craft Brewing is pulling out all the stops with events running throughout the entire weekend. Start your festivities on Thanksgiving Eve with a party featuring Alex Arbaugh, who’ll perform an eclectic mix of rock n’ roll, folk, and more. It’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday weekend.
On Black Friday, Stable Craft invites you to “come to the dark side” with their impressive array of stouts. While you’re there, take advantage of Black Friday specials, enjoy lunch, and catch an evening performance by Jessi Pugh. It’s a fantastic alternative to braving the shopping mall crowds.
The weekend culminates on Saturday, November 29, with the REWIND 80s Tribute Band. What better way to blow off steam after Thanksgiving than hitting the dance floor to all your favorite 80s hits? This promises to be an energetic, nostalgic evening that’ll have everyone singing along.
Black Friday Rock Party at The Foundry
If you’re looking for another Black Friday option, head to The Foundry on November 28 at 8 pm for their Black Friday Rock Party. Hometown favorites Sun Dried Opossum will bring high-energy rock ‘n’ roll to the stage, and best of all, there’s no cover charge. Whether you’ve been shopping all day or avoiding it altogether, this is the perfect place to cut loose and enjoy some live music.
Unique Entertainment: Music Bingo, Bachata Night and Trivia
Test your knowledge at Seven Arrows Brewing Company’s Themed Trivia Night on Wednesday, November 26 at 7 pm. It is a great way to ease into your Thanksgiving celebrations.
For something a little different, check out Music Bingo at Barren Ridge Vineyards on November 28 from 6-8 pm. This isn’t your grandmother’s bingo; it’s bingo with a musical twist, featuring two themes and prizes for each round. Enjoy the beautiful vineyard setting while testing your music knowledge.
Dance enthusiasts won’t want to miss Bachata Night at Hazy Mountain Vineyards and Brewery on Saturday, November 29, from 5-9 pm. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or have two left feet, everyone is welcome to enjoy an evening of rhythm, great company, delicious food, and drinks in a beautiful atmosphere. It’s their monthly event, so you know they’ve perfected the formula for a fantastic time.
Many of the nearby breweries and wineries will be open for business even if they are not having a special event for Thanksgiving.
Get Creative with Holiday Wreath Making
Embrace the holiday spirit at Harmony Harvest Farm’s Holiday Wreath Making Workshop, offered on Friday, November 28 at 11 am and Saturday, November 29 at 11 am and 2 pm. This festive workshop lets you choose your own adventure: build your wreath from scratch or decorate a premade one. With everything from bows and bells to dried orange slices, pomegranates, pinecones, and cinnamon sticks, you’ll have plenty of materials to create something uniquely yours. The cozy barn setting (with heaters running) makes this a perfect activity to kick off the season. At $75 per person with all materials included, it’s a wonderful way to spend quality time with loved ones while creating beautiful holiday décor.
Light Shows
Don’t miss the magical Veritas Illuminated Light Show at Veritas Vineyard and Winery. The first night of the month-long celebration is Monday, November 24 so guests can visit any day that week (closed Thanksgiving Day). Now in its fourth season, this dazzling walking light trail winds through the grove and vines, creating an enchanting experience. Warm up by the fire with mulled wine or gather with friends over your favorite Veritas bottle. The accessible trail is perfect for families with small children, dog owners, and couples seeking a romantic date night.
For another grand display, visit the Staunton Gypsy Hill Park Celebration of Holiday Lights, which begins the Monday before Thanksgiving and runs nightly from 5-11 pm. Now in its 20th year, this beloved free event transforms the park’s 214 acres into a glowing wonderland that continues through December.
