Anchorage does Thanksgiving a little different. While there is plenty of turkey with all the trimmings, it is also the right place for unique outdoor fun, Alaska traditions, and holiday events that sparkle.

Fast Feet and Bright Lights

Instead of plump turkey, holiday traditions in Anchorage start with Skinny Raven. The running shop's annual Turkey Trot starts with a morning 5K run near their flagship store. The community's annual tree lighting festivities take place the weekend following Thanksgiving. It's also Small Business Saturday, if you want to get a local jump on holiday shopping.

Winter Fun

Thanksgiving weekend is also the perfect weekend to get out on the trails or ice. Rent a fat tire bike and explore the trails or grab some skates and join the locals at Westchester Lagoon.

Thanksgiving Dinners in Anchorage

Enjoy the holiday meal with all the trimmings. You might not even need to leave the hotel; the Anchorage Marriott Downtown, Embassy Suites, Lakefront Anchorage, Hotel Captain Cook, Sheraton Anchorage, Westmark Anchorage and Alyeska Resort often each have Thanksgiving meals planned. Reservations are recommended.

With a little advance planning, local restaurants and caterers can help you put together a meal without the needs for a lot DIY kitchen wizardry. 49th State Brewing, Marx Brothers Cafe, and others can make all the arrangements for the big meal.