Planning Thanksgiving in Miami? Here’s Your Holiday Events Guide
If you’re considering celebrating a Miami Thanksgiving, you’re in for a holiday unlike any other. Instead of crisp autumn air and falling leaves, you’ll be welcomed by ocean breezes, golden sunshine, and a vibrant cultural scene.
Whether you want a classic Thanksgiving dinner in Miami, an elegant Miami Beach Thanksgiving by the water, or family-friendly Miami Thanksgiving events, this guide will help you plan the perfect holiday.
Thanksgiving Dinner in Miami
No Thanksgiving is complete without a memorable meal, and Miami offers a wide range of dining experiences that blend tradition with local flavors. Upscale restaurants across Miami Beach and downtown offer curated holiday menus featuring traditional favorites like turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, often with a Latin or Caribbean twist.
You’ll also find seafood-focused dinners where stone crab or snapper take center stage alongside traditional sides. Most of these dining spots are within a two- to three-mile radius of the Upsun Hotel, making them convenient options for holiday travelers staying in South Beach.
Miami Thanksgiving Events
Beyond the feast, Miami is alive with holiday festivities. Thanksgiving morning kicks off with Turkey Trots, family-friendly runs and walks along scenic routes, such as Miami Beach or downtown Miami.
These active events are a fun way to balance out the indulgence of dinner later in the day. Miami Beach’s Turkey Trot start line is only about two miles from the Upsun Hotel, so guests can walk or take a short ride to join in.
In the afternoon and evening, local parks and cultural centers often host community celebrations, featuring live music, art markets, and activities for kids. Families seeking entertainment will find numerous Miami Thanksgiving events that blend holiday spirit with local flavor.
Miami Beach Thanksgiving by the Water
One of the best things about Thanksgiving in Miami is that it can be celebrated outdoors, where soft sand replaces autumn leaves.
A beach picnic or catered Thanksgiving feast on the sand makes for a holiday memory that’s both festive and unique. The shoreline is just a short walk from the Upsun Hotel, so you can enjoy a morning swim before settling down for a casual beachside celebration.
For those who want to elevate the holiday, yacht charters offer private Thanksgiving dinner cruises on Biscayne Bay. These experiences, typically within a 15-minute drive of South Beach, combine fine dining with stunning views of the Miami skyline at sunset.
Tips for Celebrating Thanksgiving in Miami
Reserve Early – Thanksgiving dinner spots book up quickly, especially in Miami Beach, so make reservations weeks in advance.
Plan for Traffic – Holiday weekends bring crowds, especially in the Miami Beach area. Staying close to events makes transportation easier.
Mix Traditions with Local Culture – Pair your turkey dinner with Miami specialties like key lime pie, Cuban pastries, or fresh seafood.
Where to Stay
If you’re planning for your Miami Thanksgiving in South Beach, the Upsun Hotel offers the perfect base. Located in the heart of South of Fifth, it’s just steps from the beach and only about two miles from the Miami Beach Convention Center and popular holiday events.
To make the most of Thanksgiving in Miami, book your stay at Upsun Hotel for comfort, convenience, and easy access to both holiday traditions and the city’s unique tropical twist on the season.