5 Ideas for a Family Thanksgiving in Colorado

Thinking about traveling to Colorado for Thanksgiving this year? While it might not be your family's holiday tradition, a Colorado Thanksgiving can be as traditional or radical as you like, with endless possibilities for things to do and see. Whether you’re hoping to get the entire extended family together under one roof, or you’re taking your spouse and kids on a cozy getaway, you’ll find it easy to make Thanksgiving whatever you want it to be. Not sure where to start? Here are 5 ideas for a family Thanksgiving in Colorado that just might become your new tradition.
 

One of the best aspects of a Colorado holiday is that there are so many things to do with the family. Hoping to get in a couple days of skiing? Many of the state’s top ski resorts are open over Thanksgiving week so you can get in some early season turns or lessons for first-timers. Other winter adventures can range from snowshoe tours to sleigh rides, while in-town fun can include ice skating, shopping, sporting events, museums and shows. No matter what strikes your fancy, you’ll discover that planning a fun Colorado activity is the perfect way to enjoy spending time with family.
 

For many people, the best part of the Thanksgiving is getting everyone together to celebrate each other’s company over good food. Renting a house in Colorado can make a new destination feel like an old tradition. Invite all the cousins and find a big house in the mountains or keep it intimate and choose a condo right in town. With a full kitchen, you’ll have no problem preparing the turkey the way you always have or perfectly following Grandma’s recipe.
 

If you’re feeling like preparing a full Thanksgiving spread is just a little too daunting while you’re on vacation, don’t forget that there are lots of other options. In Colorado’s resort towns, most restaurants stay open on Thanksgiving Day, many offer special menus with traditional options like turkey, gravy and mashed potatoes. Choose from casual eateries and 5-star establishments for the perfect Thanksgiving dinner. Don’t feel like going out? You can also consider local caterers, who will be happy to provide a full Thanksgiving spread at your vacation home.
 

As you’re planning your Thanksgiving vacation, you’re probably trying to avoid thinking about Christmas, but keep in mind that many early events take place right after Thanksgiving. Extend your stay by a couple of days, and you’ll have plenty of options from lighting ceremonies to holiday markets, not to mention tons of Black Friday specials. Not only can you get a head start on your shopping, but you’ll probably also find that perfect photo op for the family Christmas card.
 

You’ve booked your Colorado lodging, finalized plans for Thanksgiving Day, and gotten RSVP’s from the whole family, so why do you feel like something is missing? If you want to take your Colorado Thanksgiving to a whole new level, consider planning something you’ve never even thought about trying before. Book a 10th Mountain Division Hut for a night, and take the whole crew on a backcountry hut trip. Call a local outfitter and schedule a dog sledding tour or an ice climbing lesson. Colorado offers tons of opportunities that are difficult or impossible to do back home, so take advantage and try something that you’ve always wondered about. You’ll return home feeling incredibly thankful for the opportunities you discovered, but also the people that you traveled with.



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