From scenic lake views to festive local traditions, Big Bear offers a Thanksgiving experience like no other. November brings cool mountain weather, breathtaking foliage, and the first hints of snow: ideal for gathering around the table, enjoying outdoor adventures, and unwinding in comfort.
Big Bear Lake offers an unmatched combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a cozy mountain atmosphere that makes any holiday truly special. Each year, Big Bear hosts a variety of Thanksgiving and holiday-themed events.
Enjoy our locally curated list of things to do this Thanksgiving weekend in Big Bear!
Crisp air and changing seasonal colors make every moment in Big Bear at the end of November a delight. Sunny afternoons are made for exploring, and chilly evenings come with a good chance of snowfall, plus plenty of reasons to bundle up.
It’s also a quieter time to visit. Summer travelers are long gone and Christmastime visitors have yet to arrive, so you can take your time and savor your surroundings.
If you can’t wait to get out the skis, snowboard, tubes, or snowshoes, Thanksgiving puts you in town right as ski season gets underway, an exciting moment for locals and visitors alike. Be among the first on the slopes when the fresh powder falls; it’s the perfect follow-up to a hearty Thanksgiving meal!
Big Bear Mountain Resort (Bear Mountain & Snow Summit) has terrain for everyone, from beginner runs to double black diamonds. Check the resort for opening day and current conditions.
Festive local traditions the whole family will love.
Thu · Nov 26
Work up an appetite on Thanksgiving Day! Walk, jog, or waddle like a turkey in this all-ages race. Costumes encouraged, so dress up and see who in your crew gets the best time.
Fri · Nov 27
Kick off the holiday season at the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in The Village, with sparkling lights and a festive winter atmosphere.
Holiday Season
Stroll through a glowing winter wonderland at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, with over a million lights and wildlife viewing along the way.
There are so many ways to be grateful celebrating in Big Bear Lake. Between meals, there’s an adventure for everyone.
Bear Mountain and Snow Summit offer terrain for every level, from first-timers to experts.
Guided off-roading, ziplining, horseback riding, and helicopter tours run year-round.
Browse boutiques, souvenir and candy shops, then enjoy live music and a bite to eat.
Yosemite Axe Throwing offers indoor lanes and beginner tutorials for groups and families.
Glow bowling on 12 lanes, plus arcade games, a laser maze, and a snack bar.
Take an after-dinner walk, enjoy lake views, and soak up the crisp mountain air.
For many visitors, a trip to Big Bear wouldn’t feel complete without a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Fortunately, a variety of local restaurants stay open on Thanksgiving Day, pairing their regular menus with holiday favorites.
Barnstorm Restaurant is known and loved for its take-out Thanksgiving dinner. Order in advance and enjoy it in the comfort of your Big Bear vacation rental.
Not in the mood for turkey? Big Bear also has Mexican, Italian, Indian, Chinese, seafood, steakhouse, pizza, and pub options. Holiday hours vary, so call ahead or make a reservation. Browse Big Bear restaurants.
However you celebrate, around the table, on the trail, or on the slopes, we’re grateful to share this special season with you. From all of us at Big Bear Vacations, Happy Thanksgiving!
Gather your loved ones, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and settle into a cozy cabin for a Thanksgiving in Big Bear you’ll always remember. From golden fall views to the warm glow of a fireplace, this is the perfect place to slow down and reconnect.
Browse our 2026 Thanksgiving cabin rentals below and find the perfect home for your holiday.
Showing of properties
Unable to find any listings.
Beds 
Baths 
Guests 
Walk To SlopesShowing of properties
Please select dates to view rental pricing
Host the ultimate Thanksgiving feast in one of our family-friendly cabins, complete with spacious kitchens, large dining areas, and cozy living rooms. Enjoy game nights by the fire, morning coffee on the deck, and enough space for everyone to relax.
For a peaceful, scenic escape, choose one of our lakefront cabins. Wake up to cool mornings by the water and enjoy holiday meals with mountain and lake views. These cabins offer serenity, comfort, and the perfect backdrop for family photos.
If you’re escaping the city for a quiet holiday for two, our romantic cabins are ideal. Share a glass of wine by the fire, soak in a private hot tub, or take a crisp evening walk under the stars.
A: Yes! Most of our Thanksgiving cabin rentals feature fully equipped kitchens, spacious dining tables, and outdoor grills, perfect for preparing and enjoying a home-cooked holiday meal.
A: The annual Village Holiday Kickoff is a local favorite, featuring live music, a tree lighting ceremony, and festive shopping. Many restaurants and local attractions also host special events throughout the weekend.
A: Yes. Several local restaurants stay open during the holiday and offer special menus or family-style meals. To explore current dining options, visit our Big Bear restaurants page for more details before your trip.
A: Big Bear is one of Southern California’s most popular mountain getaways. To secure your ideal cabin, especially lakefront or large family homes, book at least 6–8 weeks in advance.
From mountain adventures and festive celebrations to cozy cabins and warm family moments, Thanksgiving in Big Bear offers everything you need for a heartwarming holiday. Whether you’re hosting dinner for ten or sneaking away for two, Big Bear Vacations has the perfect rental for your celebration.
