Thanksgiving in Door County is about more than turkey and pumpkin pie — it’s a weekend filled with community, tradition, and plenty of ways to get moving before the big feast. From fun runs and local parades to the official start of the holiday season, Door County Thanksgiving Events offer something for everyone.
Whether you’re running in a Turkey Trot, cheering from the parade route, or spending a cozy weekend getaway surrounded by festive charm, here’s your complete guide to the best Door County Thanksgiving Events 2025.
Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025
Start Time: 8:30 AM
Location: Door County Fitness Studio, Sister Bay
Kick off your Thanksgiving morning with the beloved Northern Door Turkey Trot & Dog Jog in Sister Bay. This cheerful community run welcomes both runners and walkers — and yes, your pup can join too! Dogs on leashes are encouraged to take part in the “Dog Jog” portion, making it a fun, family-friendly way to start the day. The event is free and virtual participants are encouraged. All donations and proceeds from t-shirt and sweatshirts sales go to Friends of Gibraltar (local school organziation).
Enjoy the crisp fall air, friendly faces, and post-run celebration as locals and visitors come together for one of the peninsula’s favorite Thanksgiving traditions.
Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025
Start Time: 9:00 AM
Location: Fitzgerald Park, Ellison Bay
Another fan-favorite among Door County Thanksgiving Events, the Ellison Bay Gobble Wobble offers a relaxed, scenic route through the charming streets and countryside of Ellison Bay. Runners, walkers, and well-behaved leashed dogs are all welcome.
After crossing the finish line, gather with friends and family for hot drinks, light snacks, and community cheer before heading off to your Thanksgiving feast. The Gobble Wobble is more about fun than competition — perfect for starting your day on a joyful note.
Date: Thursday, November 27, 2025
Start Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Downtown Jacksonport
One of the most unique and heartwarming Door County Thanksgiving Events is the Jacksonport Thanksgiving Parade & Benefit Run. Part charity fundraiser, part small-town spectacle, this event brings the community together for a lighthearted walk/run through the village — followed by the annual Thanksgiving Parade right down Main Street.
Expect festive floats, quirky costumes, and plenty of laughs. Dogs are welcome (on a leash), and proceeds benefit local causes, so your participation helps spread the spirit of giving in more ways than one.
Thanksgiving weekend doesn’t just bring Turkey Trots and parades — it also marks the official kickoff to holiday festivities across the peninsula. From twinkling lights and Christmas markets to tree lightings and winter festivals, the season’s celebrations begin right after the pumpkin pie is gone.
Check out our Door County 2025 Holiday Events blog to discover everything happening across the county and start planning your magical winter getaway!
After the morning’s excitement, unwind at Fresh Coast Motel in the heart of Fish Creek — your perfect home base for all Door County Thanksgiving Events.
Centrally located near Sister Bay, Ellison Bay, and Jacksonport, Fresh Coast offers boutique comfort and modern charm for your holiday weekend getaway. Warm up with coffee in your cozy suite, explore nearby holiday markets like Christkindlmarkt and Holly Days, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the peninsula.
Whether you’re here for the Turkey Trots, the parades, or a little holiday rest and relaxation, Fresh Coast Motel makes Thanksgiving in Door County feel like home.
Book your Thanksgiving stay today and experience the warmth of small-town tradition with a modern, coastal touch.
