Thanksgiving weekend is a wonderful time to celebrate with family, friends, and the community in Baton Rouge. Whether you’re a local or just visiting for the holiday, there are plenty of activities to enjoy this year. Let’s dive into what’s happening over Thanksgiving in Baton Rouge!
Family Fun & Sporting Events
Baton Rouge Turkey Trot
Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025
Kick off your Thanksgiving morning with the traditional Baton Rouge Turkey Trot, an annual festive run that brings together runners of all ages. Run, walk, or jog the 5K or the 1-mile fun run with your family and friends, all while helping out the local community through March of Dimes.
Holiday Lights at Baton Rouge General
Now through Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025
Kickstart the merriest time of the year with the Holiday Lights at Baton Rouge General. Every year, the hospital transforms their lawnspace into a glowing winter wonderland for all ages. Snap photos in front of the singing trees, walk down the lighted pathways, and soak in the sights of the holiday season.
Baton Rouge Zydeco Hockey Game
Friday, Nov. 28, 2025
Swap the turkey for some rink-side excitement and catch a Baton Rouge Zydeco hockey game at the Raising Cane’s River Center. It’s a fun way to celebrate the holiday weekend with friends and family while cheering on the home team.
Zoo Lights
Friday, Nov. 28 through Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025
It’s that time of the year again! Zoo Lights at BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo kick off on Friday, Nov. 28. Take a trail through the zoo as it winds around more than 50 illuminated display sculptures of animals and traditional holiday scenes with this festive family activity.
Louisiana Lights
Friday, Nov. 28 through Dec. 30, 2025
Kick off the holiday season at Louisiana Lights! This dazzling display is the perfect fun and family-friendly way to enjoy Thanksgiving in Baton Rouge. Let the twinkling lights and festive decorations brighten up your weekend.
Shopping & Dining
Small Business Saturday
Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025
Shop small, shop local! Baton Rouge is home to so many small businesses to support, and there is no better day to shop local than during Small Business Saturday. On November 29, find a selection of boutiques, gift shops, and local grocers and specialty food stores, as well as a selection of malls and outlets, such as the Mall of Louisiana, Perkins Rowe, and Towne Center houses locally owned businesses to support.
Local Pop-Up Market at Electric Depot
Saturday, Nov. 30, 2025
Spend Small Business Saturday exploring Baton Rouge’s local pop-up markets filled with handmade goods, art, and treats from hometown makers. It’s the perfect way to find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting the creatives who make the city shine. Grab a coffee from Electric Depot tenant City Roots, stroll the booths, and let your holiday shopping feel a little more personal this year.
Thanksgiving Dinner to Go
Various Dates & Times
If you’re looking for even more delicious meals without the hassle of cooking, Baton Rouge offers a variety of dining options on Thanksgiving. Be sure to check our Thanksgiving Dining post for a list of local restaurants that will be open and serving special holiday menus. For an added bonus, learn how to enjoy a Cajun-style Thanksgiving in Baton Rouge!
