5 Things to Do in Maine on Thanksgiving Besides Eating Turkey

Thanksgiving is a time to get together with loved ones, gorge on gravy and get stuffed with stuffing, but not everyone has family in the area to celebrate with. So what are the alternatives? Some bust out Thanksgiving early in the day and then want something to do for the rest of the day (before Black Friday shopping, of course.).

Fortunately, there are many opportunities throughout the state for some Turkey Day fun...without the turkey!

5. Turkey Trot

This one you could even bust out BEFORE the big meal if you so choose. If you're a runner you won't want to miss this 5k in Bath. Proceeds from the Turkey Trot benefit the Bath Area Food Bank. A morning run and a good cause? A win-win. That is if you're into running 3.1 miles first thing in the morning.

4. Round 1

Perhaps some gaming action with a beer in your hand is more your style? Located in The Maine Mall in South Portland, Round 1 is open on all major holidays. They feature every arcade game you can imagine, a bowling alley, snacks, and a full bar.

3. Go shopping!

I know, I know, you're yelling at your computer about how Maine has blue light laws. I know. But this doesn't apply everywhere. In fact, according to News Center Maine, L.L. Bean was grandfathered before the law went into effect so yes, you can get your coveted Bean Boots on Thanksgiving!

2. Go to the movies

Not all theaters are open on Thanksgiving so definitely be sure to check before you make the trip. Regal, Flagship, and Cinemagic all appear to be open on Thursday. Take the kids to see Frozen 2, or gear up for some action in 21 Bridges.

1. Go visit the lobster trap tree in Rockland

For a little road trip for something quintessentially Maine, head to Rockland to see a tree made up of 155 lobster traps! According to Bangor Daily News, the tree features 2,500 lights, 600 feet of garlands, and over 100 buoys. It won't be lit until Friday, but it's still a sight to see!