For those inclined to burn a few calories before eating a large Thanksgiving Day feast, here is your opportunity to join some other motivated Jacksonville runners in a Half Marathon, 6K, or a 1 mile Fun Run a.k.a Turkey Trot. No matter your running ability, this event is fun for the whole family. Refreshments and snacks will be served after the race.<\/p>\n
Thanksgiving Day Block Party @ Pete\u2019s Bar in Neptune Beach: November 24th, 9am<\/a><\/strong> 30th Annual Christmas on the River Tree Lighting Ceremony: November 25th<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n While it might not be as large as Rockefeller Center’s Christmas Tree, the Jacksonville Landing does a fantastic tree lighting display right on the St. John\u2019s River. After you have shopped all of the best Black Friday deals, take a trip downtown to see the 56 foot tall, energy efficient artificial tree, with over 240 ornaments and 78,000 L.E.D. lights. The first 200 people who arrive will be given a commemorative ornament (while supplies last). The evening will conclude with a magnificent fireworks display over the river.<\/p>\n Budweiser Clydesdales Thanksgiving Visit: November 21-23rd and 26-27th<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Go see the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales and take a tour of the brewery. Self-guided tours are free, or you can go to Beer School for $15 to learn everything you ever wanted to know, including food pairing suggestions. The brewery is closed Thanksgiving Day, and the day after Thanksgiving.<\/p>\n Moonlight Madness @ The St. Augustine Outlets: November 24-25th<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n The St. Augustine Outlets host Moonlight Madness for all of the die-hard deal seekers out there. They open at 6 pm on Thanksgiving Day, and stay open throughout the night and into Friday. You will find people in their PJ\u2019s and wearing slippers as they stand in line. The first 100 people to arrive at Guest Services will get a gift bag.<\/p>\n Christmas Made in the South: November 25-27th<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n At this entertaining arts and crafts festival, the whole family can browse booths where artists craft their masterpieces right in front of you. This three day festival also includes gourmet food tastings, and other forms of entertainment. Admission is $7 for all three days. Children under 12 are free.<\/p>\n My Bar My Way Factory Tour: Sunday\u2019s at 2pm November 27 \u2013 December 25th<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Downtown Jacksonville is a great place to be during the holidays, and Sweet Pete\u2019s Candy, the “Sweetest Destination on Earth” is a town favorite. Imagine Charlie and the Chocolate Factory right at your fingertips. Enjoy a Sunday afternoon tour where you can see the inner workings of a real chocolate factory. Tour cost $5 per person.<\/p>\n
\nPete\u2019s Bar is a local staple, family-owned and operated since 1933, and mentioned in John Grisham’s book The Brethren<\/em>. Ask anyone who has been in Jacksonville for more than a few years, and they have a story of a time at\u00a0Pete\u2019s. While certainly not a kid-friendly event, the block party is a great way to get your Thanksgiving Day started with a few adult beverages before heading to your family dinner. You must enjoy cheap drinks and large crowds. They only accept cash, so make sure you have enough for a few rounds.<\/p>\n![\"the-landing-christmas-tree\"](\"http:\/\/flyjacksonville.com\/jetstream\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/The-Landing-Christmas-Tree-1024x480.jpg\")
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