4 Thanksgiving Events to Give Thanks At

gratitude is perhaps best shared together – you can do that at these local happenings

photos by Branden Nall, by Alexis Thompson

TROT TO IT. There are plenty of holiday-themed shows and performances, rec events, and more to enjoy in the Chippewa Valley – including the annual Turkey Trot!
TROT TO IT. There are plenty of holiday-themed shows and performances, rec events, and more to enjoy in the Chippewa Valley – including the annual Turkey Trot!

Join the community in celebrating the spirit of gratitude this holiday season! Explore what the Chippewa Valley has to offer with these events offering a variety of activities to get you out of the house and into town. Whether you like comedy, improv, exercise, food, or all four, we’ve got you covered with something for everyone. (And if you're looking for other things to do in the Chippewa Valley this time of year, check out our full Events Calendar.)


1) A Thanksgiving Improv Show
Wednesday, Nov. 27 | $15 | 7:30pm | Oh Claire Improv (515 Wisconsin St., Eau Claire)

De-stress the night before Thanksgiving by joining Oh Claire Improv for an hour-long short-form improv show filled with laughter. This unique performance is crafted from the suggestions and input of audience members, so come ready to collaborate with the performers as they bring your scenarios to life on the spot. They guarantee that you will be laughing all night long!

Grab your tickets online

2) Festival Foods Turkey Trot
Thursday, Nov. 28 | $35+ | 8am | Downtown YMCA (700 Graham Ave., Eau Claire)

Is this the year you become a Turkey Trot person? Lace up your sneakers and choose from four events that best suit your style: a 5-mile run, a 2-mile run, a 2-mile walk, or the dog jog. But that’s not all! In addition to the fun activities, you’ll receive a long-sleeve T-shirt, a 6” pumpkin pie, exclusive coupons, post-race snacks, and a race-day bib. If your pups are joining in on the fun, they'll be awarded a custom bandana and a race-day bib too!

Register for the race online

3) 29 Pines Thanksgiving Buffet
Thursday, Nov. 28 | $29.99 for adults, $14.99 for kids (4-12), free for littles (ages 3 and under) | 10am-4pm | 29 Pines Conference Center (5872 33rd Ave., Eau Claire)

Cooking can be a real hassle, especially on Thanksgiving. This year, skip the kitchen stress and treat yourself at the 29 Pines Thanksgiving Buffet, hosted by the Wheaton Family Restaurant. Indulge in all the classic holiday favorites–ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, fresh fruit, and a whole lot more–without lifting a finger. Relax, enjoy the feast, and leave the work to them. Reservations are due Nov. 21, made by calling (715) 874-2929

Keep up-to-date with the event on Facebook

4) A Clear Water Comedy Thanksgiving Showcase Live
Thursday, Nov. 28 | 8pm | $7 | The Plus (208 S. Barstow St., Eau Claire)

Got family coming to town this Thanksgiving? Need a little breather from all that togetherness, or perhaps, something just for the adults to do? Here you go! The Clear Water Comedy Thanksgiving Showcase Live is happening at The Plus on Thanksgiving night. The perfect excuse to step out for a couple hours and enjoy a night of laughs. Catch local features and fresh faces as they take the stage.

Snag your tickets online