Thanksgiving in Novato is a fun and vibrant time. Whether you’re heading out for the Bank of Marin Turkey Trot, busy roasting a turkey at home or opting for a Thanksgiving dinner at a local restaurant, things get festive around this much-loved November holiday.
Hosting Thanksgiving at home? For special family meals, Whole Foods is a Novato go-to destination. You can order an entire family meal online for in store pick up. Elsewhere in Novato, Nugget Markets on Ignacio Blvd has plenty of holiday fare (check out some of their delicious recipe suggestions). Trader Joe’s is, as ever, full of fun seasonal foods. No doubt that the store will include many items with an unexpected pumpkin-spice twist.
Other Novato shopping options include Rojas Market, a traditional Mexican Market on Grant Avenue with an excellent selection of great produce. For the budget-minded shopper, Grocery Outlet is a trove of bargains that includes all types of groceries and organic foods.
There’s always room for dessert, and Novato has no shortage of amazing bakeries and specialty shops. John and Jill’s Cheesecake has incredible premium cheesecakes of all shapes, sizes, and varieties. Creekside Bakery on Grant Avenue can make pretty much any cake you can dream of, and also offers a host of other baked goods perfect for your Thanksgiving feast. Or pop into Teeny Cake for some bite-sized celebration cupcakes. You can also satisfy your sweet tooth cravings with old-school candies from Sees Candy at Vintage Oaks or Celine’s Sweets in Old Town Novato. Let’s not forget about where to get delicious pies, Rustic Bakery lets you pre-order pies in advance for Thanksgiving. Need a gluten-free option? Four Chylde Bakery on Grant Street has delicious GF sweet and savory treats.
Whether you’re looking for ways to beautify your Thanksgiving table or need a hostess gift, consider a floral arrangement from a local florist, like Natalie & Daria’s Flowers and Gifts or newly opened Almost Perfect on Grant Ave. You can also find inspirational hostess gifts at the newest shop on the block, Jolt Gifts on Grant Avenue or home decor from an old-time favorite, Feathered Nest at Pacheco Plaza.
Want to head out for Thanksgiving dinner instead? Novato has several great restaurants to fill you up. Treat yourself to an amazing view at Hilltop 1892, which serves Thanksgiving Dinner from 11am till 8pm. Or head out to Grazie’s, serving Thanksgiving Brunch from 7am till 3pm (with a menu that includes pumpkin pancakes). At three, they shift gears into Thanksgiving dinner from 3-9pm, for a traditional turkey roast, or pistachio-crusted salmon followed by classic desserts like pumpkin and pecan pies. Boca Tavern is also serving a three-course pre-fixe Thanksgiving feast, along with other favorites on their menu from 5pm to 9:30pm. It’s recommended to call ahead for a reservation.
You might want to pair your meal with a great drink. How about checking out Trek Winery’s incredible selection? If craft beer is more up your alley, Beercraft offers 200 different bottled beers, along with fourteen beers on tap. BevMo at Vintage Oaks is another well-stocked location for adult beverages. Mantra Wines on Grant is closed for Thanksgiving, but a great place to drop into before or after the holiday for a tasteful break from shopping.
In the morning before the big feast, take part in the 5th Annual Marin Turkey Trot in Novato, all for a great cause. It’s a perfect event for the whole family, with a mile youth race, a 5K race, and a 10K race for experienced marathon runners, all of which support the SF Marin Food Bank. And this holiday weekend, if you feel like letting your hair down, check out fun cover band Wonderbread 5 at Hopmonk Tavern Novato on the evening of Saturday November 30.
Need a place for holiday guests to stay? Check out Inn Marin, Best Western Plus Novato Oaks Inn or Courtyard Marriott. They all have openings and will make your visitors feel right at home.
Whatever you’re looking for this Thanksgiving, it’s clear that Novato has you covered. Whether you’re a longtime Novato native, visiting family and friends in the city, or making your way through on a trip to wine country, we wish you a Happy Thanksgiving!
