RICHMOND, Va., 2012-10-24 — /travelprnews.com/ — Family-friendly events including extravagant feasts and ravishing celebrations are fruitful in Virginia this season. From a festival dedicated to the first 1619 Thanksgiving in America at Berkley Plantation, to a feast that even Santa would enjoy, Virginia has wonderful and exciting experiences that the whole family can enjoy this Thanksgiving holiday. Below are highlights of Thanksgiving feasts and family-friendly celebrations in Virginia, with many more found on www.Virginia.org.
History, Food and FUN – Thanksgiving 1619 Style at Berkeley Plantation, November 4, 2012
Celebrate the site of the First Official Thanksgiving in America at the Virginia Thanksgiving Festival at Berkeley Plantation. This year’s formal program includes music, informative speeches and the re-enactment of the 1619 landing of Capt. Woodlief and his men which portrays America’s First Thanksgiving. The program ends with the Chickahominy Tribal Dancers who will explain the tribe’s history, perform and invite everyone to join in the Friendship Dance. Visitors can also enjoy tours of the 1726 Manor House, walks in the colorful autumn gardens and a formal living history program. Food will be available for purchase with fun twists to traditional favorites like turkey dinner in a glass, Brunswick stew, deep dish pie, hot cider and much more. The festival is free to the public, with $5.00 parking. Food prices range from $1.00 to $6.00.
A Feast Santa Would Enjoy at The Homestead, November 22-24, 2012
The Homestead Resort has long been a favorite for holiday travelers and Thanksgiving is no different. Guests will enjoy an elegant and lavish buffet filled with all the traditional favorites on Thanksgiving Day and learn from resort chefs about the making of The Homestead Gingerbread Village. The Homestead is the perfect place to spend the family holidays with something to entertain everyone – from a traditional tree lighting ceremony in the Great Hall with a visit from Santa himself to craft classes to bingo to wine tasting. Thanksgiving rates start at $350.
Feast Like a King at The Jefferson Hotel, November 22, 2012
Bring family, friends and a major appetite to Richmond’s historic Jefferson Hotel on Thanksgiving as there are several feasts from which to choose. Guests can choose between a Sunday Thanksgiving Brunch buffet or a four-course prix fixe holiday meal at Lemaire which includes traditional Virginia specialties from noon to 4 p.m. Also, a tempting three-course prix fixe Thanksgiving dinner including regional and seasonal favorites will be offered at TJ’s. Prices vary. For reservations, please call (804) 649-4672.
A Decadent Thanksgiving Bed and Breakfast Package, November 22-25, 2012
Fall is a very special place at Cooper’s Landing as the leaves change around Buggs Island Lake and the Inn is filled with Pumpkins. Thanksgiving Bed & Breakfast Package at the Inn offers a luxurious two nights at the Inn in a romantic room with a double Jacuzzi tub and fireplace. Guests will be welcomed to the Inn with a basket of delicious homemade pumpkin bread and warm apple cider. This package also includes a full four-course gourmet Thanksgiving Feast served on Thursday, November 22nd and a bottle of Harvest Wine chilled in the room. Please call (434) 374-2866 to make reservations today or visit www.cooperslandinginn.net.
Traditional Feast and Thanksgiving Getaway, November 21-22, 2012
Enjoy a sumptuous four course dinner at the Inn at River Bend with all the fixings on Thanksgiving Day served in the Great Room overlooking the beautiful New River Valley. Enjoy a gourmet breakfast each morning as well as a 4-course Thanksgiving dinner with a choice of sparkling cider. This package is a two-night stay, $125 per couple. Payments must be made in advanced and a 14 day cancellation is required. For reservation activities, call (540) 921-5211.
Traditional Feast, Grand Illumination and Ski Swap at Wintergreen Resort, November 22-25, 2012
Thanksgiving on the Mountain at Wintergreen Resort offers a holiday weekend filled with traditional feasts, the grand illumination of the courtyard, gingerbread house workshops and kid’s ornament workshops to kick off the holiday season of family traditions. This is also a weekend winter sports enthusiasts won’t want to miss as there will be great deals on used equipment at the annual Ski Swap to benefit the Wintergreen Ski Patrol. And, if Mother Nature is smiling, the Plunge and Ridgely’s Fun Park will be open for the weekend too. Reservations are required. Prices vary. Please call (434) 325-8235 for details. For activity reservations email reservations@Wintergreenresort.com.
A Feast for the Eyes and the Tummy at Natural Bridge, November 21-23, 2012
Dig into an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring all the traditional favorites and much more with the Natural Bridge Thanksgiving Buffet Package. The only work necessary to enjoy this package is to make a reservation. Delight in all-you-can-eat buffet and then check out the new indoor butterfly garden, “Butterflies at the Bridge” before setting out to walk off the extra calories on the scenic Cedar Creek Trail beyond the Natural Bridge to the Monacan Indian Village. Continue the evening below the Bridge for the Drama of Creation and then enjoy a night cap at the Red Fox Tavern before bed. The package includes standard room accommodations at the Natural Bridge Hotel, and admission to The Natural Bridge attractions. Package price is $159 plus tax, for 2 people.
A Festive Thanksgiving Feast at Founders Inn and Spa, November 22, 2012
Enjoy a delicious and festive Founders Thanksgiving Dinner at Founder’s Inn and Spa in Virginia Beach. Executive Chef Scott Simpson and his award-winning culinary team have designed a delicious menu of traditional favorites including turkey, dressing, stuffing, Smithfield Ham, and many other specialties to make for a scrumptious and bountiful holiday buffet. Please call (757) 366-5777 to place reservations.
Love is at the heart of every Virginia vacation. Visit www.Virginia.org for more holiday trip ideas or call 1-800-VISITVA for a free Virginia is for Lovers travel guide.
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Virginia is for Lovers of Decadent Thanksgiving Feasts