Thanksgiving is just about here which makes now the perfect time to begin planning your well-deserved and fun getaway to scenic Big Bear, California. When you’re ready to start creating your unforgettable holiday itinerary for Big Bear during Thanksgiving, the following stops are open for business this time of year and make for amazing additions to your list!
Stores Open for Holiday Shopping
Thanksgiving is a great time of year to get a head start on your holiday shopping list. When you make your way to Big Bear, you’ll find you’re in exactly the right place to put your retail therapy skills to work! There are plenty of stores that are open around Thanksgiving time, but the Mountain Christmas Boutique is often a fan favorite. This annual event is on from November 24th through November 26th at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center. Here, visitors can browse one-of-a-kind gifts on display by more than 40 vendors. There are also opportunities for those with little ones to have them meet Santa and take part in arts and crafts activities. All in all, it’s a family-friendly Thanksgiving weekend event you simply won’t want to miss.
Another top shop to check out over Thanksgiving in the area includes Goldsmith’s Sport at 42071 Big Bear Boulevard. This is a prime place to gear up for ski season as they carry all the best wintertime apparel and equipment ranging from waterproof ski pants and snowboards to skis and poles as well. They can even do tune-ups if your Big Bear adventure this Thanksgiving includes time on the slopes, and you want to be at your very best.
Outdoor Recreation Options
The outdoor fun and recreation in Big Bear are limitless over Thanksgiving much to the delight of locals and visitors alike. Head over to the Alpine Slide or the Big Bear Snow Play area to enjoy afternoons of fun with the entire family! Many of the local outdoor adventure tour companies also operate over Thanksgiving giving visitors a chance to customize their sightseeing over the holidays. Partner with Big Bear Off-Road Experience for a winter outing that’s filled with adrenaline-pumping fun. Helicopter Big Bear is ready and waiting year-round to provide Big Bear adventurers with a new view on the terrain. Action Zipline Tours offers cold-weather options for outdoor fun as well!
The Running Trails are Always Open
There’s no holiday closure on running trails or winter hikes when you head to Big Bear over Thanksgiving. While taking an independent trek is always an exciting way to spend the holiday here, the annual Big Bear Turkey Trot puts you in good company when you’re up for some friendly competition. This annual event is the perfect way to work up an appetite for your Thanksgiving feast ahead. Participants can choose the 3, 6, or 9-mile route starting from Meadow Park on Thanksgiving Day. While the race is fun and challenging, it’s also something you can feel great about. Proceeds from this Thanksgiving event will go towards supporting local food pantries.
Restaurants to Enjoy
Year-round, Big Bear is an amazing destination for those who are looking to dine their way through a stay in style. Thanksgiving is no exception to that rule! The Peppercorn Grille at 553 Pine Knot Avenue has stayed open for Thanksgiving meals in years past. This casual eatery is a great place to enjoy all-American dishes paired with just the right wine, cocktail, or beer selection. They’re open from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm most days of the week with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 10:00 pm. Thanksgiving dinner options here might include shrimp saute, seared ahi tuna, calamari, vegetable stuffed cannelloni, pesto and artichoke pizza, or beef stroganoff. From surf n turf to filet mignon, the options are delicious, vast, and varied. Thanksgiving guests can top things off on a sweet note with dessert options at Peppercorn Grille that include chocolate cake, classic cheesecake, root beer floats, and homemade apple-raisin bread pudding too.
If you prefer to grab your Thanksgiving meal to go and enjoy it in the comfort of your luxurious vacation rental instead, The Barnstorm Restaurant has you covered. Located at 501 W. Valley Boulevard, this eatery often provides dinners that can be ordered in advance for pick up. In years past, menus have included turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie as well. Dinners can be customized upon request with options to order meals that serve up to six people at a time.
Book Your Getaway to Big Bear Today
Whether your travel plans bring you to Big Bear over Thanksgiving or you’re excited to spend time here another time of year, having amazing accommodations in place for you and your entire traveling crew can elevate the experience from start to finish! Reach out to the team at Big Bear Vacations today to learn more about our exciting property options available including our Thanksgiving rentals that are one-of-a-kind!
