For many college students, Thanksgiving is a time spent with family, eating long-awaited home-cooked meals, while taking a break before the stress of finals approaches. Although, going back home to spend the break is the norm for most, for others that may not always be the case. Whatever the reason may be, there are those who don’t always have the chance to go back home for Thanksgiving. Fortunately, if you are one of the students staying on campus this break, here is a list of ways to spend Thanksgiving day in Austin.
Story By Sarah Ponder
Photo courtesy of Community Impact
ThunderCloud Subs Turkey Trot
Location: Long Center for Performing Arts
Time: 10:10 a.m.
Every year on Thanksgiving morning, ThunderCloud Subs presents one of Austin’s greatest traditions. The Turkey Trot is one of the largest runs that consists of nearly 20,000 participants each year. The price to partake in the run varies from $27-$32 and gives the option to choose from 1-mile or a 5-mile run/walk. All proceeds are donated to a local Austin non-profit, so you’ll feel great knowing you are supporting the community while doing something good for your own well-being.
For more information on how to sign up, visit their website.
Photo courtesy of CultureMap Austin
The Classic Friendsgiving
Location: In the comfort of your apartment/dorm
Time: Whenever
As the saying goes, “Friends are your chosen family.” Gather up some friends, and create your own Thanksgiving dinner. Of course, potlucks are always a safe bet, but to make things even easier you can actually order a whole Thanksgiving meal with just one phone call. Restaurants and stores such as Whole Foods, Pok-e-Jo’s, Cracker Barrel and Bill Millers offer holiday packages that include a variety of sides, whole turkeys and even dessert, all depending on your price range. Just split the cost among dinner-goers, and you have a classic Thanksgiving dinner without the hassle of having to actually make anything. However, if you do plan on doing this, be sure to order as soon as possible to ensure your order.
Photo courtesy of Volstead Lounge
Thanksgiving Night Dance Party and Karaoke Night
Location: The Volstead Lounge and Hotel Vegas
Time: 9 p.m.
Feel like going out for the night? Thankfully for you, Austin’s favorite neighboring East Austin venues will be hosting some events to spice up your Thanksgiving night. The vintage-styled lounge, The Volstead, will be having a dance party with drink specials all night and music from DJ Manny Mo. Next door, Hotel Vegas will be holding a karaoke night. The cover is free at both venues.
Follow their Facebook pages (@volsteadlounge and @hotelvegas) to stay updated.
Photo Courtesy of Simon Property Group
Black Friday Shopping
Location: Various
Time: Thursday night
After a night out, why not take a look at some good deals? Many stores will be opening Thursday evening before Black Friday officially starts. Take a look at these 2019 Black Friday ads to see if your favorite stores are having any good sales, and spend the rest of your night shopping away.
