Ah, Thanksgiving! That special time of year when we gather to stuff our faces, watch football, and try not to argue with Uncle Bob about politics. You’re in luck if you’re in Canton, Michigan, or nearby. We’ve got a cornucopia of options to make your Turkey Day as smooth as gravy on mashed potatoes.
Run Before You Feast: 22nd Annual Canton Turkey Trot
Let’s kick things off with a little pre-feast calorie burn, shall we? The 22nd Annual Canton Turkey Trot is on Thursday, November 28, 2024. This 5K run and 1-mile race is perfect for working up an appetite or working off your guilt about that third slice of pumpkin pie you plan to eat later.
The best part? It’s for a good cause. The event supports the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan so you can feel extra good about your huffing and puffing. Plus, there are in-person and virtual options. So, even if you’re still in your pajamas, you can participate from your living room. Just don’t trip over the dog while you’re at it.
China Gold: An Unexpected Thanksgiving Twist
Who says Thanksgiving has to be all about turkey? China Gold in Canton is shaking things up this year. While they’re not offering a traditional Thanksgiving meal, they’re part of a heartwarming initiative. Chinese Menu Online, along with partner restaurants like China Gold, is donating 25,000 meals to Rise Against Hunger during November.
So, if you’re feeling adventurous (or just really craving some egg rolls), why not switch it up this year? You’ll be supporting a local business that’s giving back to the community. It’s like having your cake and eating it too, except replace “cake” with “General Tso’s chicken.”
Bob Evans: Where Every Day Is Thanksgiving
If you want to dine out, Bob Evans restaurants will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. They’re offering a Thanksgiving Holiday Celebration Platter that includes slow-roasted turkey, sides, bread, and pie for $15.99. For the indecisive eaters, there’s a premium version with turkey and ham at $17.99. It’s like having two Thanksgivings on one plate!
The DIY Approach: Homestyle Turkey, the Michigander Way
Feeling brave enough to tackle the bird yourself? Try the “Homestyle Turkey, the Michigander Way” recipe. It’s a simple, no-frills approach to cooking a turkey that’ll make you feel like a true Michigander.
Pro tip: Brine that bird! Marinate it in a mix of vegetable and chicken stock for 24+ hours before cooking. Add some veggies to the bottom of the pan, and don’t forget to baste. Your turkey will be so moist that you might need to swim to the dining table.
A Short Road Trip: Ann Arbor Thanksgiving Dinner 2024
Ann Arbor has some tasty Thanksgiving dinner options if you’re up for a little drive (about 30 minutes west of Canton). They’ve got everything from full feasts to a la carte items and even options for the vegetarians in your life who insist on reminding everyone that turkeys have feelings, too.
Many places offer pre-order options for Thanksgiving Feast to Go. Remember to order early – unless you want to explain to your family why you’re serving cereal for Thanksgiving dinner.
The Main Event: Thanksgiving Day
Whether you’re running a 5K, heating a pre-made feast, dining out, cooking up a storm, or taking a little road trip, remember what Thanksgiving is all about: being grateful, spending time with loved ones, and stretching the limits of your waistband.
So there you have it, folks—a guide to Thanksgiving 2024 in and around Canton, Michigan. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, there’s something for everyone. From all of us here in the Mitten State, have a happy, safe, and delicious Thanksgiving!
And remember, if all else fails, there’s always pizza. Nothing says “I’m thankful,” like a large pepperoni with extra cheese.
Sources: annarborwithkids.com, allevents.in, cantonmi.gov, crackerbarrel.com, bobevans.com
Header Image Source: Photo by Claudio Schwarz on Unsplash
