Jenna Giustino Thanksgiving at the Jersey Shore combines everything that makes the holiday special: delicious meals, annual traditions, shopping opportunities, and volunteer days. From hotels and restaurants serving classic turkey dinners to bustling vendor markets filled with seasonal treats, the Shore has plenty to explore. Active locals can join Turkey Trots and festive runs, while those in the know can uncover hidden gems and cooking experiences that make the season unforgettable. Whether it’s indulging in food, enjoying fun events, or discovering secret spots, the Jersey Shore delivers every element of a memorable Thanksgiving season. Read on to discover the ultimate guide to celebrating Thanksgiving at the Jersey Shore.
Giving Back
Pointsgiving | 2255 Bridge Avenue, Point Pleasant
Saturday, November 1st
The Kiwanis Club of Point Pleasant presents its third annual Pointsgiving on Saturday, November 1st, 2025, from 1PM to 4PM at the Community Park in Point Pleasant Boro, New Jersey. This free, family-oriented event offers community members the chance to participate in hands-on volunteer activities, contribute donations, and learn about local nonprofit organizations. Planned activities include packing blessing bags for individuals experiencing homelessness, assembling snack packs for area schools, and supporting donation drives for causes such as animal welfare, child abuse prevention, and veterans’ services. Donations can be dropped off at the park or through a drive-up location at the Beach Boulevard/Susan Lane gate. If inclement weather occurs, the event will be moved to Nellie Bennett Elementary School, with updates shared via Kiwanis Club’s Instagram.
Read More: 15 Jersey Shore Restaurants + Bars To Get You in the Holiday Spirit
Thanksgiving Meal Prep + Cooking Classes
Vegan Thanksgiving Cooking Class | 1119 New Jersey 35, Ocean Township
Thursday, November 13th
Greens Natural Foods in Ocean is hosting a free Vegan Thanksgiving Cooking Class. Plant-based health and wellness expert Jessica Jarmer will demonstrate how to create vegan versions of classic Thanksgiving dishes. Attendees will have the opportunity to taste the prepared dishes.
Thanksgiving Side Dishes Cooking Class | 800 Ocean Road, Point Pleasant
Saturday, November 15th
Soule Culinary + Art Studio will host a Thanksgiving Side Dish Cooking Class titled “The Sides That Steal the Show.” This hands-on class teaches participants to prepare festive side dishes, including creamy garlic and herb mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts with maple and pecans, sweet potato gratin with sage and Gruyère, and cranberry-orange relish. The session is suitable for both hosts and contributors looking to create impressive, flavorful dishes. Registration is $90 and can be completed online at Soule Culinary + Art Studio. Follow the Soule Studio Instagram for updates here.
1663 Thanksgiving Catering Menu | 1 Harrison Avenue, Little Silver
Monday, November 17th to Sunday, December 7th
1663 Market offers chef-prepared holiday dinners ideal for gatherings of any size. Each Thanksgiving package includes classic favorites, seasonal sides, and homemade desserts for a stress-free celebration. Every catered package highlights exceptional flavors, quality ingredients, and thoughtful presentation. Orders can be placed and scheduled for pickup or delivery online. Thanksgiving orders are available for pickup from November 17th through November 26th and November 28th through December 7th. Follow the 1663 market Instagram for updates here.
Read More: 2025 Holiday Pop-Up Markets + Events Happening at the Jersey Shore
5K Races + Turkey Trots
Thanks4Giving — Turkey Dash + Splash | Sunset Pavilion Grass Lot, Asbury Park
Saturday, November 15th
The Thanks4Giving Turkey Dash 5K + Splash is a timed run along the iconic boardwalks of Asbury Park, Ocean Grove, and Bradley Beach. Entry is $35, with every participant receiving a long-sleeve t-shirt, race bib, and finisher medal. The event also offers the thrill of a chilly, post-run ocean dip to support Special Olympics New Jersey athletes.
Manasquan Turkey Trot | 69 Second Avenue, Manasquan
Saturday, November 22nd
The 42nd annual Manasquan Turkey Trot will take place on Saturday, November 22nd. It features two races: a 1-Mile Fun Run at 10AM and a 5-Mile Race at 1AM. Both races start and finish at the Manasquan Little League Baseball Field at 69 Second Avenue. Participants often embrace the festive spirit by dressing in seasonal attire. All proceeds from the event support local organizations.
Fast + the Furriest 5K Turkey Trot | 825 Boardwalk, Ocean City
Thursday, November 27th
The Fast and the Furriest 5K Turkey Trot in Ocean City is a fun, family-friendly running event held every Thanksgiving. Participants can run or walk a 5K (about 3.1 miles) along a scenic route. What makes this race unique is that it welcomes dogs so participants can run alongside their furry friends. Proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Ocean City.
Run Your Giblets Off Turkey Trot | 101 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel
Thursday, November 27th
The Run Your Giblets Off Turkey Trot in Holmdel, New Jersey, is a festive 5K race held every Thanksgiving morning at Bell Works. The event is family and pet-friendly, featuring multiple waves for competitive runners, casual runners, walkers, and even a kids’ fun run. Participants receive a long-sleeve event shirt, a custom finisher medal, and other goodies, with all proceeds supporting the FoodBank of Monmouth + Ocean Counties.
Thanksgiving Shopping Events
Thankful + Merry Outdoor Craft + Vendor Market | 974 Bay Avenue, Toms River
Saturday, November 8th
Shop for holiday gifts and peruse merchandise from local artisans and well-known vendors at the Thankful + Merry Outdoor Craft + Vendor Market. Proceeds support the East Dover Baptist Church’s food pantry.
Fall Extravaganza Vendor Fair | 247 Route 9, Bayville
Saturday, November 15th
The Bayville Elks Lodge will host a holiday shopping event featuring local craftsmen and vendors. There is no entry fee for the event. Proceeds from the event will help send youth to the PEER/PATH conference and support the Special Children Charity Ball.
Thanksgiving Eve Events
Jenksgiving Eve Thanksgiving Eve Bash | 300 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach
Wednesday, November 26th
Celebrate the night before Thanksgiving at Jenks Club on Wednesday, November 26th. Doors open at 8PM, with no cover charge until 9PM. Enjoy live music from Sean Patrick + The Alibis.
Thanksgiving Dinners
Thanksgiving Buffet at LBI National | 99 Golf View Drive, Little Egg Harbor Township
November 26th to December 1st
Celebrate Thanksgiving at LBI National with its annual Thanksgiving buffet, which features classic holiday favorites like slow-roasted turkey, prime rib, and a variety of delicious sides. Guests can also enjoy indulgent desserts, including pumpkin, pecan, and caramel apple pies. Tables seat up to 10, with adjacent seating available for larger groups. Reservations include a two-hour dining experience to savor the holiday flavors.
Thanksgiving Buffet at The American Hotel | 18-20 East Main Street, Freehold
Thursday, November 27th
The American Hotel in Freehold annually hosts a traditional Thanksgiving Buffet Dinner. The dinner is priced at $69 for adults and $34 for children 12 and under. The buffet menu features classic favorites such as turkey, ham, and traditional sides. Follow the American Hotel Instagram here for more updates.
Thanksgiving at Jersey Shore BBQ | 710 Arnold Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach
Thursday, November 27th
Jersey Shore BBQ in Point Pleasant Beach invites friends and family to celebrate Thanksgiving with a festive meal. On Thursday, November 27th, 2025, the restaurant will be open from 11AM to 8PM. Guests can enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere while sharing classic holiday dishes.
Thanksgiving Buffet at Grenville Hotel + Restaurant | 345 Main Avenue, Bay Head
Thursday, November 27th
The historic Grenville Hotel in Bay Head will host a traditional Thanksgiving buffet on Thursday, November 27th, 2025, beginning at 12PM. Guests can enjoy a festive holiday feast featuring oven-roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, classic herb stuffing, homestyle sides, seasonal vegetables, and desserts such as pumpkin, apple, and pecan pies. Multiple seating times are available, including 12PM, 12:30PM, 2PM, 2:30PM, 4PM, and 4:30PM. Pricing is $50 per adult and $30 per child, which includes unlimited soft drinks, coffee, tea, and juices. Follow the Grenville Hotel Instagram for updates here.
Thanksgiving Day at The Lobster Shanty | 83 Channel Drive, Point Pleasant Beach
Thursday, November 27th
The Lobster Shanty in Point Pleasant Beach offers a Thanksgiving Day buffet priced at $45 for adults and $20 for children under 12. The buffet features a variety of soups, salads, and main dishes as well as options such as turkey breast, roast beef with au jus, apple cider chicken with roasted cranberries, and sides like five cheese macaroni and cheese casserole, pumpkin beer mussels, and Brussels sprouts with apple cider reduction. Dessert choices include a selection of cookies, brownies, pies, and an ice cream sundae bar. Reservations are required due to limited seating availability and can be made by calling 732-899-6700. Follow the Lobster Shanty Instagram for updates here.
Thanksgiving Staycations
Thankful for Cape May | 200 Congress Place, Cape May
Wednesday, November 26th to Monday, December 1st
Congress Hall’s “Thankful for Cape May” package offers a festive Thanksgiving getaway with deluxe overnight accommodations and welcome cocktails for two in the Brown Room. Guests can enjoy a Thanksgiving buffet dinner in the Congress Hall Ballroom, featuring classic holiday favorites with fresh ingredients from Beach Plum Farm.
Thanksgiving Events
Friendsgiving Dinner Tea Party | 600 Main Street, Toms River
Saturday, November 22nd
The Mathis House in Downtown Toms River will host a Friendsgiving” Dinner Tea Party, offering guests a festive fall dining experience with live music and the historic mansion’s seasonal décor. Chef Bill Ball, of A Matter of Taste, will prepare a menu featuring fresh herb roasted turkey breasts with sage gravy, garlic and parmesan mashed potatoes, traditional green bean casserole, jalapeño parmesan cornbread, cranberry relish, seasonal mixed green salad, butternut squash soup, and gourmet tea and coffee. The event costs $50 per person, with a 10% discount available for seniors and military personnel, and reservations can be made by phone or online via RESY.
Harvest Fest | 203 Lacey Road, Lacey
Saturday, November 22nd
The Lacey United Methodist Church will host its Harvest Fest on Saturday, November 22nd, with a wide selection of crafts, baked goods, and homemade soups and chili. Visitors can bring their own cameras to capture photos with Santa. The church kitchen will also be open, serving breakfast and lunch for attendees. This event provides a family-friendly opportunity to shop, eat, and celebrate the season.
Day of Thanks! A 19th Century Thanksgiving Celebration! | 4263 Atlantic Avenue, Wall Township
Sunday, November 23rd
Experience an early 19th-century Thanksgiving at The Historical Village of Allaire, where historic homes, craft shops, and retail buildings welcome visitors for a special “Day of Thanks.” The event features craft demonstrations, including blacksmithing, tinsmithing, carpentry, and leather-making, along with cooking demonstrations at the Allaire Mansion. Attendees can enjoy games on the village green, early holiday shopping at the bakery and general store, and various activities designed for both adults and children.
See More: 2025 Holiday Pop Up Markets + Events Happening in New Jersey
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