Finally, Thanksgiving is here — the perfect opportunity for some quality, family time and plenty of delicious food. I will add that there are still many activities, both festive and casual, all around the city to celebrate the holiday season, whether you want to keep your family and friends entertained or simply need something to do. With Pete’s Bar celebrations on Thanksgiving, online speed dating for single locals, and a Jags game for football Sunday, Jacksonville is providing sufficient entertainment throughout the week. 

11.25

“Petesgiving”

Thanksgiving is here, and, this year, the official Petesgiving celebrations are back. In the early morning through late afternoon, Pete’s Bar, in Neptune Beach, holds a large Thanksgiving celebration, with food trucks, drinks for purchase, and hundreds of thousands of people. The tradition has been taking place for 40 years, with last year being the only exception (thanks Covid-19). This year, the Neptune Beach City Council unanimously voted to hold the event again. Bike with the family to celebrate Jax Beach’s most loved tradition. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Free. Food & Drinks for Purchase. Pete’s Bar: 117 First St. Neptune Beach, FL; petesbarjax.com // @petes__bar

Thanksgiving Day Buffet
For anyone who will not be with family this year for Thanksgiving or simply does not want to cook, consider attending the Thanksgiving Day Buffet at the Jacksonville River City Downtown Hotel. The buffet is $64 per person and includes everything from breakfast to your traditional Thanksgiving foods: a carving station, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, corn, scrambled eggs, bacon, and so much more. Note: It is only $24 for children. Reservations are recommended. 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. $64. Jacksonville River City Downtown Hotel: 245 Water St. Jacksonville, FL; facebook.com/events/307970471172193 // @jacksonvillerivercitydt

11.26

Jacksonville Online Speed Dating
The company Ever is motivated to eliminate the swipe-right, swipe-left mentality by holding a speed dating event. All you singles who are ready to date, this could be your chance. Though still a virtual dating event, you will sit face-to-face with other local singles and have conversations for three minutes, each. You can RSVP in the Ever app to see the full attendee counts. To attend, make sure you download the Ever app, set up your profile, and find the event “Jacksonville Date Night Mingle” to RSVP. 7:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Virtual.  facebook.com/events/253116283123541 // @ever_app

11.27

Jacksonville Light Boat Parade

Boats and fireworks — what could be better? The Jacksonville Light Boat Parade is a holiday tradition featuring many ships and boats, adorned with decorations and lights of all types. They travel along the north and south banks of the St. Johns River for all spectators to admire. This event will feature The 904 Pop Up from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Riverfront Plaza, an event that promotes Jacksonville’s small businesses, featuring over 200 local creatives, makers, artists, and more. 6 p.m. Free. St. Johns River: 1001 Museum Cir. Jacksonville, FL;  specialevents.coj.net // @jacksonvillelightboatparade

11.28

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Atlanta Falcons
Everyone loves a good Jags game, especially with the team’s recent wins, which have come out of nowhere. What makes this game even better than the others is that many of us will have family in town, so you can celebrate the game (and hopefully, a win) with your family at the TIAA Bank Field Stadium. The Falcons are predicted as a 1.5-point favorite, going in, so the odds aren’t too bad. With tons of tailgating opportunities, the BudLight Zone, Club Suites, and more, a Jags game is always a good time. 1 p.m. $54+. TIAA Bank Field: 1 TIAA Bank Field Dr. Jacksonville, FL; jaguars.com/tickets // @jaguars

11.29

The Well CWN & Women Alive
For the women in Jacksonville who want to network or broaden their ministry group, the Well Christian Women’s Network is holding an event this upcoming Monday to do just that. With icebreaker games and appetizers, the event is very casual and a great chance to open up and meet new people if you have been looking for a chance to share your faith with other folks. 6-8:30 p.m. $5. Kingdom Builders of Faith: 4777 Lenox Ave. Jacksonville, FL; eventbrite.com/e/169339195091 // @TheWellCWN

11.30

Music Bingo

Time Out Sports Grill is holding some fun, musical bingo. Not only will your experience include wonderful songs and the joy of yelling “BINGO,” but there are also prizes, drink specials, and delicious handmade pizza. Test your music knowledge and enjoy the competition. 7-9 p.m. Free. Time Out Sports Grill: 13799-5 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL; facebook.com/events/282592919863775 // @timeoutjax

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