Thanksgiving activities for the whole family from AAA Southern New England

Posted by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

Cold weather, overeating and football on TV can turn even the most active families into couch potatoes over the holiday weekend. Thanksgiving is a rare opportunity for the whole family to come together, so take advantage! There are plenty of activities you can do with all your friends and loved ones in Massachusetts.
Christine McDermott, director of publications for AAA Southern New England, offers these tips to get you off the couch this Thanksgiving:
Proudly Parade in Plymouth: Don’t wait until Thanksgiving Day to start the festivities. Gather the troops and head down to Plymouth for the annual America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Celebration, November 22-24. The parade (the second-longest running in the country) has floats, drum and bugle corps, re-enactment units from every period of American history and military marching units. Also be sure to check out the farmers market, kids activities and tours of the Mayflower II.
Lose the stuffing and run a 5k: Thanksgiving Day is a popular date for 5k (3.1 mile) races. Get a head-start on burning off the pecan pie and sign up for a local race with friends and family. Try to beat your personal best, or just go at your own pace and enjoy being active with your family. Popular events include the Feaster 5 in North Andover or the Pilgrim 5k Run and Walk in Plymouth. Click here for a complete roundup of all Massachusetts Thanksgiving Day races. For added fun, dress up for the festivities. Turkey costume, anyone?
Get crafty: A New England tradition, this year’s Castleberry Faire Arts and Crafts Festival takes place November 29-December 1 at Shriners Auditorium in Wilmington, Mass. With more than 300 craftsmen and craftswomen from around New England and beyond, the festival features everything from pottery and ornaments to fine jewelry and specialty food samplings.

Take a hike: Work off Thanksgiving dinner with a long walk with loved ones. The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism has a great roundup of local hiking trails and mountains no matter where you are in Massachusetts. Remember to stock up on water, bring a map and dress in layers!
Hit the Gridiron: Who said Thanksgiving Day games are reserved for the pros? Many high schools play their rival football teams on Thanksgiving, so cheer on your alma mater or check out your town’s schedule for local games in your area. Don’t worry, you’ll be home in time for turkey!
Thanksgiving is a great time to get out and get active with the whole family, so what are you waiting for? For more great recommendations and discounts on your favorite activities, visit www.AAA.com/Horizons, drop by your local branch or call 877-874-7845.
This post was contributed to MassFinds by the good folks at AAA Southern New England.

TOPICS: Family Fun, Holidays, Things to Do