How to Celebrate Thanksgiving in Big Bear Lake
Posted: 11/18/25
This Thanksgiving, we're giving our thanks to you - our valued visitors! Enjoy our locally curated list of things to do this Thanksgiving Weekend in Big Bear!
1. Alpine Zoo Wild Lights
Step into a world of lights, wildlife, and wonder with the Alpine Zoo Wild Lights! With four heartwarming light display zones featuring over a million lights and exciting views of the Alpine wildlife your Thanksgiving weekend - will be one to remember!
Sparkling Lights, Beautiful Nights
2. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Celebrate togetherness with friends and family! Whether you're going for the wondrous sparkling lights at the Village Tree Lighting Ceremony or the serene winter vibes of the Village - you're bound to be thankful you went!
3. Shred the Slopes
We're thankful for the slopes! Whether you're cruising down the beginner runs or racing down the adrenaline inducing double black diamond - Bear Mountain and Snow Summit Ski resorts are the perfect way to spend your Thanksgiving weekend!
4. Big Bear Thanksgiving Turkey Trot
Earn your turkey feast at the annual Big Bear Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day. Costumes are encouraged and strollers are welcome at this all-ages, family-friendly event. Take it easy with a 3-mile route or challenge yourself in the 6-mile or 9-mile running events. All routes are on level terrain.
5. Let's Talk Turkey
Many Big Bear restaurants serve up traditional Thanksgiving dinners complete with tender turkey, cranberry sauce, savory stuffing, and pumpkin pie.
6. Shake Up Your Thanksgiving Menu
Craving something less traditional at your Thanksgiving table? Big Bear hosts a range of restaurant cuisines from Indian, Mexican, Italian and Chinese, to seafood and steak, and pizza to pub grub. Afterwards, indulge at sweet shops and ice parlous, Big Bear really has it all!
7. Throw Some Axes
Get a little wild this Thanksgiving with Yosemite Axe Throwing! Whether you're going with family, friends, or a large group - axe throwing is the perfect way to spend the holidays. Best part: Yosemite Axe Throwing offers tutorials for all the beginner axe throwers!
8. Outdoor Adventure Tours
Take a guided adventure tour year-round in Big Bear Lake! Off-Roading, ziplining, horseback riding and helicopter tours are all offered for those needing a little adrenaline during their holiday visit.
9. Shop Local
It's the most colorful time of year in The Village. Stroll through town for some of the best fall season photos! Stop in to clothing and souvenir shops, candy stores, and sit down restaurants. Live music is a growing scene in The Village, catch musicians at local eateries or reserve tickets to shows.
10. Bowling Barn
Hit that strike and show your thanks this Thanksgiving at the Bowling Barn! From their stunning UV lit glow bowling, to their 12 lanes and wide screen television, arcade, laser maze, and full service snack bar - the Bowling Barn is the Thanksgiving gift that keeps on giving!
