Thanksgiving is all about good food, spending time with your favorite people, and finding a little something to be thankful for. But between the cooking, traveling, and inevitable post-dinner food coma, it can be nice to get out of the house and do something fun, too!
This year, let's make it a little more fun for you, the family, and all your loved ones! If you're looking to make the most of the long weekend, Prince William, Virginia, offers a few ways to add something extra to your Thanksgiving plans. No matter your plans, here's how to enjoy the holiday around Prince William.
Start Thanksgiving Morning with a Turkey Trot
Look, we get it. We don't want to wake up early on our days off either. But, we can make an exception for this one! Before the turkey hits the table, why not get moving? Thanksgiving morning races are a fun way to spend time with family and friends, support local causes, and work up an appetite for the big meal.
Prince William has two Turkey Trot options scheduled for Thanksgiving Day this year.
Hero’s Bridge Prince William Turkey Trot
One option is to head on over to the Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center in Manassas for the 2026 Hero’s Bridge Prince William Turkey Trot. Participants can choose a timed 5K or a one-mile run/walk, making it an option for both experienced runners and those who prefer a more relaxed pace. Plus, a portion of race proceeds benefits Hero’s Bridge, a nonprofit serving elderly veterans! So you can feel good for multiple reasons.
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When: Thursday, November 26, 2026
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5K: 8:30 a.m.
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One-mile run/walk: 9:35 a.m.
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Where: Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center, 9100 Freedom Center Blvd., Manassas VA
Registration is open, and fees vary by race and registration date. Check the official race website for registration details, course information, and updates.
Chris Yung Memorial 5K Turkey Trot
Prefer a race that supports a local memorial fund? The Chris Yung Memorial 5K Turkey Trot starts and finishes at 2 Silos Brewing Co. in Manassas. The event welcomes participants of all ages and offers both a one-mile kids' fun run and a 5K run/walk.
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When: Thursday, November 26, 2026
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Kids' one-mile fun run: 8 a.m.
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5K run/walk: 8:30 a.m.
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Where: 2 Silos Brewing Co., 9925 Discovery Blvd., Manassas VA
The event honors Chris Yung and supports the Chris Yung Memorial Fund, which helps fund the annual Road to Hope with Team Prince William Law Enforcement United.
Find registration details through Fleet Feet's race listing.
Gobble Wobble 5K
Thanksgiving Day community 5K through the Westridge neighborhood, with additional 50-yard and 100-yard children's events. Participants may run, jog, walk, or bring a stroller; the course is described as hilly and family-friendly.
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When: Thursday, November 26, 2026
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5K run/walk: 8 a.m.
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50 Yard Mini: 9 a.m.
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100 Yard Mini: 9:15 a.m.
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Where: Westridge Elementary School,12400 Knightsbridge Dr Woodbridge VA
Last day to register and get GUARENTEED SHIRTS is Thursday, November 12th 2026. More information can be found on their website.
Braemar's Turkey Trot
Family-friendly 5K run/walk open to ages 5–99. Registration includes a long-sleeve race shirt and medal for participants ages 5 and older. The event supports the Sweet Julia Grace Foundation.
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When: Thursday, November 26, 2026
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5K: 9 a.m.
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Where: 12300 Iona Sound Drive, Bristow, VA
REGISTER FOR ONLY $15.00 ages 12 and under and $25.00 for ages 13 & up.
A Taste of Thanksgiving History
Ever wonder what preparing Thanksgiving dinner looked like before modern ovens, grocery stores, and an entire cabinet dedicated to kitchen gadgets? Even if you haven't before, I bet you're wondering now. Well, do we have a treat for you! One of Prince William's historic sites offer a chance to connect with the past in a more hands-on way.
On Saturday, November 21, Ben Lomond Historic Site is scheduled to host its Cook an Old Time Thanksgiving Meal Workshop. Participants learn about 19th-century cooking techniques and equipment, including reflector ovens, cast-iron pots, and Dutch ovens, while exploring how historic recipes were prepared.
The workshop is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Drive in Manassas. The listed fee is $20 per person, and advance registration is required.
One important note: The county's registration listing currently shows the workshop as unavailable, so check the official Parks & Recreation registration page for any cancellations or additional availability before making plans.
Make Time for the Outdoors
After a busy morning (or once the holiday leftovers have made their way into the fridge) a little fresh air can be a welcome change of pace. Fingers crossed that the weather is okay, and if it is, Prince William has plenty of outdoor spaces for a walk, a nature break, or simply enjoying a quieter side of Northern Virginia. If that sounds good to you, consider adding one of these to your plans during the Thanksgiving weekend.
Neabsco Creek Boardwalk
Take a stroll along the elevated boardwalk at Neabsco Regional Park in Woodbridge. The boardwalk winds through wetlands and offers opportunities to observe birds and other wildlife. It's a nice option for a leisurely walk and a change of scenery.
Keep the Long Weekend Local
Thanksgiving doesn't have to be limited to Thursday. If you're in Prince William for a few days, use the long weekend as an excuse to explore more of the area.
Spend some time browsing the shops and restaurants in Historic Downtown Manassas, wander through Historic Occoquan, or plan a stop at one of the area's local breweries or wineries. You can also check the Visit Prince William events calendar for markets, seasonal activities, and other happenings around the county.
If you're hosting out-of-town guests, this is a good opportunity to show them a little more of Prince William beyond the Thanksgiving table.
From everyone at Visit Prince William, we hope your Thanksgiving is filled with good food, good company, and a little time to enjoy the place we call home.
Planning a visit over the holiday weekend? Explore more things to do, places to eat, and places to stay at Visit Prince William.