Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and the season of giving, remembering, and celebrating is upon us! From family gatherings to volunteer events, there are so many ways to be a part of our community around Chester County during this magical time of the year. Whether you're preparing a tasty meal or gearing up for community activities, Chester County’s got something for everyone.
For my part, I’m starting off with a mellow family gathering before the season winds up into its joyous maelstrom of activity. Here are a few of the great events in and around our county to celebrate this time of the year.
Turkey Trots
In recognition of the gluttonous feasting of Turkey Day, energetic Chester Countians sponsor charity run/walk events to help us work up an appetite then work off those extra calories while giving to communities in need. A combination of the spirit of volunteering and giving plus a great way to enjoy our region with the community truly embodies the spirit of the season. Check out these Turkey Trots around Chester County to get your trot on!
Downingtown – 23rd Chester County Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 28, 2024, wake up early and head to Downingtown West High School and see if you have what it takes to bring home the top prize! Race across the countryside while raising money and awareness for kids with cancer. This charity event embodies the character of Chester County to create a seasonally fun community gathering.
Learn more and sign up here.
West Chester – 1st Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 28, 2024, roll out of bed and into West Chester for breakfast and an 8am 5k run! This first Turkey Trot through downtown West Chester is fun for the whole family – before the feasting begins. Work up an appetite while strolling around town. If running or walking isn’t your speed, grab a warm beverage and cheer on the runners while getting in some last-minute shopping.
Learn more and sign up here.
Unionville – 1st 5k and 1 Mile Turkey Trot and Food Drive
Thursday, November 28, 2024, check out the Unionville High School for their first 5k run and 1 mile walk! Come out and join the community this Thanksgiving for a walk around the school campus and event. Since this is as much a food drive as it is a charity run/walk event, canned food donations are appreciated!
Learn more and sign up here.
Phoenixville – 15th “Burn off the Bird” 5k
Saturday, November 30, 2024, at the Phoenixville Recreation Center, come out for this family-friendly stroll along the Schuylkill River Trail that “guarantees to help you digest that Thanksgiving Meal!” While the other 3 Turkey Trots are designed to help you work up an appetite, this one is here to help us recover from the feeding and shopping frenzy this weekend is sure to bring. Sounds like a good idea to me!
Learn more and sign up here.
Burn Ban Continues
Cozying up by the fire with a warm beverage and good company, especially as the weather catches up to the calendar and finally turns cooler, is a seasonal tradition across Chester County. Unfortunately, these past few months have been so dry that the Chester County Department of Emergency Services recommended extending our current burn ban for another 30 days – until December 26 – and that extension has been granted. From burn barrels to fire pits to brushfires, please refrain from burning anything outside while these drought conditions persist.
This burn ban is in effect until December 26, 2024.
Learn more about the burn ban here.
Longwood Gardens
Kicking off the winter wonderland over at Longwood Gardens, Longwood Reimagined opened on Nov 22, bringing with it renewed gardens, green houses, and an all-new dining experience. Get your reservations today to eat fountain-side with the new Taste of Christmas in the Fountain Room, though you can call ahead and find out if walk-ins are available. From fungoid favorites and free-range fare to creative cocktails and curious concoctions – there’s something to delight all your senses at Longwood Gardens this season!
Learn more and get your tickets here.
Santa Express
All aboard West Chester Railroad's Santa Express! This seasonal favorite has returned for 5 weekends of enchanting rides through our great county. Sip hot chocolate with Santa while the landscape that inspired so many cruises by. Get your tickets before it's too late!
Lear more and get your tickets here.
Conclusion
There’s so many amazing events and activities happening around our great county this holiday season! With everything from appetite-inducing turkey trots to magical trips to Longwood Gardens to train rides with Santa along historic routes, there’s something for kids of all ages.
As with each year, I’ll be doing my best to enjoy as much of what Chester County has to offer as possible. Even so, I’ve learned there’s just too much to do in a single year and pick-and-choose my favorite activities. I’ll see you at Longwood Gardens and around town – but not as a runner. How will you get involved with our community this year?
However you choose to spend this Thanksgiving, and the rest of the Holiday Season, from my family to you:
Happy Holidays!
