15 Ways to Entertain the Kids Over Thanksgiving Break

There’s so much more to Thanksgiving weekend than leftover turkey sandwiches and online Black Friday deals. With the kids out of school (whether it’s the Zoom or in-person kind), you’re probably desperate for ways to keep everyone entertained. Scroll down for 15 fun and festive activities that will make the long weekend fly by.

photo: Isabel L. via Yelp

See the Light(s)

Sure, some of our favorite holiday light displays have been cancelled this year (as in, no LA Zoo lights... sigh). But these over-the-top, illuminated houses around town are sure to dazzle and delight.

photo: Lizzy M. via Yelp

Branch Out

Starting the day after Thanksgiving, most of LA's local tree lots and further-out tree farms open for business. If you're feeling adventurous, start a new post-holiday tradition at a cut-your-own farm, where kids can wander through the rows of trees in search of the perfect one to take home.

photo: Art Camp LA via Instagram

Get Crafty

Check out these six kid-friendly fall crafts from our favorite LA Instagrammers.

photo: webandi via Pixabay

Raise the Roof

From Graham cracker creations to a clever ice cream cone trick, here are 13 hacks to help you construct your next gingerbread house.

photo: Amanda S. via Yelp

Take a Moment

After a tough year, Descanso Gardens invites you to reflect and enjoy the beauty that's all around us with Reflections at Descanso, a celebration of all that’s hopeful and peaceful in this world. Be sure to stop by the magical Wishing Tree, where you can add your own wish for the new year. More details.

photo: erik bishoff via flickr

Buckle Up & Celebrate

LA's best drive-thru holiday events are happening now! Get tickets to The Elf of the Shelf's Magical Holiday Journey, Santa's Speedway Spectacular (with 2 miles of lights!) and more.

photo: Shannan Rouss

Hit the Trails

Looking to work off all that stuffing (plus tire out the kiddos)? Visit one of our favorite off-the-beaten-path LA hikes.

Play It Safe

Most of LA's outdoor playgrounds have reopened with Covid restrictions in place. We recommend going during off hours, ideally earlier in the morning, to avoid the most crowded times.

photo: Pexels

Take It or "Leaf" It

There's still plenty of time to give your LA kids a true fall experience with a visit to one of these nearby wooded spots, where you can see trees in all their autumn glory.

photo: A Million Thanks

Give Back

Help kids experience their own helper's high. From creating a Blessing Bag to writing a letter to the troops, here are 14 ways for them to give back this holiday season.

-Christina Montoya Fiedler & Shannan Rouss

featured photo: pexels

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