Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving in Pleasant Hill

10/24/24

Enjoy Thanksgiving in the East Bay Region with these top dinner options and Thanksgiving events near Pleasant Hill.

Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving
Catering Options
Thanksgiving Events
Local Wineries
Side Trip to San Francisco
Family Fun Activities
Shopping & A Movie

Ah, Thanksgiving! The air is crisp, the trees are rich with autumnal tones, and for most Americans it's a long holiday weekend. If you're always looking to strike out and have a little adventure, this is an ideal time to do it since so many people stay at home or travel to see their families. The guides and local experts at Stay Pleasant Hill have put together some suggestions for your long weekend.

Note: Make sure to check in before you visit local restaurants and businesses, as hours may vary due to the holiday.

Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving

Dine-in & Take-out

We're very lucky to live in the part of the world we do! And part of that is because of the many diverse restaurants and eateries we have in Pleasant Hill and in nearby towns. If you are looking for a place to tuck into a traditional Thanksgiving menu, order food to take home to your hotel, or prefer something other than turkey -- Pleasant Hill will no doubt leave you sated.

There are plenty of restaurants open for Thanksgiving! Here are a few dine-in options in and around Pleasant Hill:

  • Zio Fraedo's - Not a big fan of turkey? Relish authentic Sicilian cuisine for this Thanksgiving.
  • Batter 'N Icing - This Thanksgiving, treat yourself to gourmet cupcakes, baked fresh daily. Perfect for adding a sweet touch to your holiday celebration.
  • La Fontaine - Crab cakes, gnocchi, and cordon bleu are just a few of the culinary highlights at this French establishment
  • Longport Fish - Seafood lovers will enjoy mouthwatering dishes like the baked oysters (roasted with garlic butter and topped with parmesan!).
  • Vic's Martinez - Experience an array of American and Latin American classics, from papas bravas to honey fried chicken.
  • La Sen Bistro - This Walnut Creek restaurant serves an array of traditional French meals and decadent wine pairings.
  • Brasas Brazil - Indulge in grilled protein, candied bacon, and more at this Brazilian spot.
  • The Greenery at Diablo Hills Golf Course - Enjoy the annual Thanksgiving Dinner at The Greenery, where dishes like roasted turkey, baked ham, and apple pie await.
  • The Hangout - Whether you're looking for a morning bite or seeking classic brunch dishes on Thanksgiving Day, The Hangout features scrumptious eats for all palates.

Be sure to check in with all local dining during your Thanksgiving Weekend stay in Pleasant Hill! Hours of operation may change due to the holiday.

Catering Options

If you're celebrating at home and prefer to avoid defrosting the turkey, we've got you covered with a variety of catering options!

  • Urban Plates - Enjoy a pre-made Thanksgiving feast, including herb-roasted turkey, mushroom stuffing, artisan bread, and all of the fall holiday fixings.
  • Back Forty BBQ - Grab mouth-watering Texan BBQ for the whole fam along with Thanksgiving staples like mashed potatoes, turkey and more.
  • Green Cuisine - Green Cuisine offers something for everyone at the table including organic, vegan, BBQ, and Mexican catering options.
  • Europa Hof Brau - These home-made catering meals are perfect for large groups with family style options from one of the largest catering kitchens in the Bay Area.
  • Slow Hand BBQ - From brisket to corned beef, Slow Hand BBQ has menu that will leave you begging for seconds. And don't forget the sides- all sides and sauces are made from scratch in house.
  • Wence's - Customize your Thanksgiving meal with plenty of protein, pasta, vegetables, and sides. Place your order by November 25 and pick it up on November 28, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Most catering options are available for pick-up PRIOR to Thanksgiving Day and closed on the holiday. Place your order ahead of time to secure availability.

Thanksgiving Events Near Pleasant Hill

There are plenty of Thanksgiving and holiday events in November! Whether you're spending the day with the little ones or friends, enjoy the most wonderful time of the year in Pleasant Hill.

DVC Drama: Passage | November 15 - December 1, 2024

A thought-provoking play inspired by E.M. Forster's "A Passage to India." The story explores the cultural divide between two fictional countries, Country X and Country Y, and how their citizens navigate the complexities of occupation and coexistence. Through a series of engaging encounters and dramatic events, the play delves into themes of identity, conflict, and the possibility of bridging cultural gaps.

Holiday Boutique & Crafts Fair | November 16, 2024

Looking for the perfect gifts for this holiday season? Make your way to the Senior Center at Pleasant Hill Park and join the local community in reveling in Christmas festivities. This free family-friendly event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on November 16, 2024.

Dolfins Xmas Tree Lot | November 24 - December 24, 2024

Running from November 24 to December 24, 2024, the 40th annual Dolfins Xmas Tree Lot is a Pleasant Hill tradition welcoming all families and community members. Held at the Winslow Parking Lot on 2590 Pleasant Hill Road, this event will have you picking out a gorgeous Christmas tree for your home! All proceeds will support the Pleasant Hill Dolfins Swim Team.

Credit: Napa Valley

Check out Our Local Wineries

Whether you are picking up a few bottles to bring your host or hostess for Thanksgiving Dinner, or you're looking for a fine wine to take back to your lodgings in Pleasant Hill, spending at the vineyards is a wonderful way to enjoy your holiday getaway.

Explore the local vineyards of Sonoma Valley, Livermore Valley, Napa Valley, and the Silverado Trail. Sip and celebrate with Brooklyn West Winery, Building 43 Winery, dash to Dashe Cellars, forge a find at Blacksmith Cellars, and enjoy some truly fine cuvees at Urban Legend Cellars.

Please do check ahead to see if hours have changed due to the holiday.

Take a Side Trip to San Francisco

Most cities tend to be a bit more quiet on a major holiday. So, Thanksgiving Day & Weekend might be an excellent time to head over the bridge into the fabled City by the Bay. Luckily, several attractions plan to be open for locals, their out of town guests, and tourists alike.

The Golden Gate Bridge & Park is, if course, always open! The arms of the fabled bridge is ready to make your memories. As the weather in San Francisco and the surrounding region is fairly temperate even in late November, you can also visit the San Francisco Botanical Gardens. With a motto of, "Travel the World in 55 acres," prepare to see flora you may have never seen before.

Nearby, the San Francisco Bay Aquarium also plans to be open from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. If eating seafood is your favorite way to enjoy aquatic life, then historic Fisherman's Wharf is a must-see, must-do, must-dine experience. Check out the seafood dining options on their website.

Of course, please be sure to check in with the establishments you may visit to confirm Thanksgiving Week hours and availability!

people of all ages have fun riding the Joker rollercoaster at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

Family Fun: Lions, & Tigers, & Science, & Thrills, & Rides!

For the kids -- and animal enthusiasts -- don't forget there are not one but two award-winning zoos nearby. Take a day trip on Thanksgiving Day to the San Francisco Zoo and enjoy memorable experiences for the whole family.

Looking for some adventure after a turkey-inducing food coma? Take the family for some thrilling rides after Thanksgiving Day! Just a 20 mile drive from Pleasant Hill you'll find Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, where iconic rides and sensational fun await!

Have you tried an escape room? If you and the family love adventure, and doing things together, the Red Door Escape Room located in nearby Concord may be a unique way to enjoy the long weekend. Thrills and chills are the name of the game when you and your family spend an afternoon putting your heads together. Please see the business website regarding times, ages restrictions, and other issues.

Shopping & A Movie

Thanksgiving and the following Black Friday beginning of the holiday shopping season prove two things: Americans love to eat and shop. In nearby Livermore you'll find San Francisco Premium Outlets. With more than 180 shops, you're sure to find something -- or many things -- you simply have to have. Leave room in your suitcase or, better yet, buy a new one at a Black Friday sale.

Of course you don't have to leave Pleasant Hill to get some great bargains -- for you or those on your gifting list. You'll find Shopping in Pleasant Hill offers a wide selection of both national chains and local, home-grown shops and boutiques. The shopping district also has plenty of dining options should you need refreshment to carry all those shopping bags and finds. And, if some in your party aren't keen to shop 'til they drop, Century 16 Downtown Pleasant Hill and XD multiplex will keep them entertained. Of course check their site for showtimes.

In nearby Concord The Veranda is a shopping destination you'll be glad you checked out. The design is reminiscent of a Mediterranean village with plenty of shops, places to lunch, and experiences you'll be glad to have taken part of over your Thanksgiving holiday. The Veranda also has a movie theater in lieu of a baby, spouse, or partner-sitter if they're not in a shopping mood.

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