Thanksgiving in Fredericksburg brings the warmth of community and plenty of ways to celebrate, even without a parade rolling down Caroline Street. While the city saves its big parade for the Christmas season in December, you can still fill your Turkey Day with joy, tradition, and plenty of activities that make this historic Virginia town special during the holiday season.
No Parade? No Problem
Fredericksburg doesn’t host a Thanksgiving parade in 2025, but that just means more time to enjoy other festive traditions. The good news is you can still get your parade fix from the comfort of your couch or explore local celebrations that bring the community together in meaningful ways.
Watch the Big Show From Home
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off its 99th year on Thursday, November 27, 2025, starting at 8:30 a.m. on NBC and Peacock in all time zones. Hosts Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, and Al Roker will guide you through the spectacle featuring 34 giant balloons, 29 creative floats, 11 marching bands, and performances from artists like Busta Rhymes and Foreigner. An encore broadcast airs at 2 p.m. if you need a post-turkey replay.
Want the inside scoop before the big day? Tune in to the Countdown to the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Wednesday, November 26, at 8 p.m. on NBC. You’ll get behind-the-scenes access to how those massive balloons come to life and what goes into creating the floats that travel through New York City streets.
Behind the Balloon Magic
Ever wonder how parade balloons work? Those giant character balloons can be as tall as a five-story building and require teams of 80 to 100 handlers to keep them from flying away. Each balloon takes about 90 handlers during windy conditions, and they’re inflated the night before at the famous balloon inflation party. The floats themselves can weigh up to 30,000 pounds and must be designed to collapse and expand to fit through tunnels and under bridges along the 2.5-mile route.
Marching bands travel from across the country, practicing for months to perfect their routines. Many bands start fundraising a year in advance just for the opportunity to perform in front of millions of viewers. It’s not just a parade but a year-round commitment for many participants.
Fredericksburg’s Own Thanksgiving Traditions
Start your morning with the Turkey Trot at James Monroe High School, where you can burn some calories before loading up your plate. This annual 5K run/walk supports the local YMCA and brings families together for a fun, active start to the holiday.
Later in the day, join the Community Thanksgiving Meal at the Super Value Inn on November 27 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., where volunteers prepare and serve meals for over 2,500 people. It’s a beautiful way to give back or receive a warm meal with turkey, ham, sides, and desserts.
Make a Weekend of It
Thanksgiving weekend in Fredericksburg offers even more fun. Head downtown to solve the Window Wonderland riddles displayed in shop windows, where your family can compete for prizes while exploring local boutiques. The Ice Skating Rink at Riverfront Park provides a festive activity for all ages, and Small Business Saturday on November 29 gives you a chance to support local shops.
Cap off the weekend at the Mistletoe Market on Saturday, November 30, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hurkamp Park. This annual holiday craft fair showcases handmade crafts, seasonal treats, and unique gifts perfect for starting your holiday shopping.
Your Thanksgiving, Your Way
Fredericksburg proves you don’t need a parade to make Thanksgiving memorable. Whether you’re watching giant balloons float through Manhattan on your TV screen, running a 5K with neighbors, or volunteering to serve meals to thousands, this historic town offers plenty of ways to celebrate gratitude, community, and the start of the holiday season. Grab your stretchy pants, gather your people, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember.
Sources: nbc.com, Zs Southern Kitchen Facebook Page, runsignup.com
Header Image Source: funinfairfaxva.com
