By Leighton Maynard
If you have read my article, Leighton Takes on Atlanta you know that I like to help people figure out things to do on an at-home vacation. With Thanksgiving coming, I thought I’d share some things going on around Atlanta. If you’re going to be around, give it a read. Having a break from school is always nice but a better way to get a break from screens and books is to go on a run. On Thanksgiving day they have a half-marathon and 5k. This half marathon begins right under the Olympic rings in downtown Atlanta. This is a yearly tradition so don’t miss out. Plus you get to finish off the race with an awesome medal.
If you’d rather not run but still want to get outside there are a ton of available hike trails around Atlanta. The weather is perfect for a brisk walk to enjoy a great day. This hopefully can help get your mind off all the bustle of the school year. Some trails you should try are the Arabia Mountain top trail, the Sawnee Mountain Indian Seats Trail, the Sweetwater Creek State Park Trail, the Sope Creek Trail, the Chattahoochee Trails, and many more. All of these trails have wonderful views and unique aspects.
When you’re finished sweating it out on the trail, it’s time to sit back, relax, and EAT on Thanksgiving. Normal meal eating can be boring so a spunky way to enjoy some food is to go to the historic market food tour on the Atlantic Streetcar line. You can try 11 different delicious platters of food from 5 different food vendors. Not only will you be tasting all the fantastic food but you will also learn a ton about the history of southern style baking.
A way to get outside and eat is the Grant Park food walk! On this tour, you will try 8 modern southern foods and 3 local food stops. This tour will teach you interesting stories about the neighborhoods and areas you will be exploring.
They also offer a biscuit-making class so put on your chef’s hat and apron because this turkey day is about to get a lot tastier.
If you want to hear more about anymore of these great places go to https://unexpectedatlanta.com/atlanta-thanksgiving-events/.
This time of the year is a time of giving. Some people and families won’t receive a hot plate during this week. A great way to spend your time off of school is to give back to the community. Hands-on Atlanta has a ton of volunteering opportunities. So grab your friends and give back.
If you are a big coffee drinker Starbucks has come out with its fall and winter menu. The Peppermint Mocha, Pumpkin Spiced Chai, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, and Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai are all yummy drinks offered at Starbucks right now. A great way to try all these drinks is to buy them with your friends. You all can have an individual test of the drink and decide which one is your favorite. This is a fun way to try them all without having to just keep one to yourself.
And of course, there are many original traditions you can do this holiday. During Thanksgiving, there are always football games going on so after eating that full meal sit back, relax, and watch some football. Some football games that will be playing on Thanksgiving are the Dallas Cowboys, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Washington Commanders, San Francisco 49ers, and the Seattle Seahawks. If any of these seem interesting to you, enjoy some football on Thanksgiving day.
Another yearly tradition you might follow is Black Friday. Countless stores are having amazing sales so grab your money and drive to your local mall. Be prepared to come home with bags of stuff you probably don’t need.
There is also Cyber Monday where all the sales you saw on Friday are now online. Your bank account might be hurting but at least you have a ton of stuff. Amazon is one of the biggest companies with the best sales so hop online.
And to end all the original traditions with the most original of all is to have a happy feast with family and friends. This time of the year is to celebrate the connections you have with people. Make some turkey, sit around the tables, and enjoy each other.
Whatever you decide to do during this week remember to enjoy yourself and have an amazing Turkey Day!
