Thanksgiving Celebrations at Tennessee State Parks

Tennessee State Parks offer Thanksgiving meals and hikes for a memorable holiday experience.

Tennessee State Parks invites visitors to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday weekend with them. On November 28, eight Tennessee State Parks will provide Thanksgiving meals featuring traditional holiday dishes and southern favorites. This is an opportunity for families to enjoy a festive meal without the hassle of cooking and cleaning. Additional information regarding these meals can be found on the Tennessee State Parks website.

On November 29, many Tennessee State Parks will also host Day After Thanksgiving hikes. These hikes cater to all ages and abilities, offering a range from easy walks to more challenging treks. Participants can join guided hikes or explore on their own. For instance, at Mousetail Landing State Park, hikers will explore the history of the Tennessee River and its ports, while Cedars of Lebanon State Park offers a new paved ADA trail. Savage Gulf State Park will provide a seven-mile trek, and Dunbar Cave State Park will showcase how the landscape has been shaped by various cultures.

Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park offers a one-mile woodland trail loop, with an option for more advanced hikers. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park will conduct a tour focused on Tennessee history. Special hike times are available at certain parks, such as a Pre-Gobble Wobble and After-Feast Stroll at Pickwick Landing State Park, and a Thanksgiving night hike at Paris Landing State Park.

Hikers are advised to wear appropriate footwear and bring water. For more details on these hikes, visit the Day After Thanksgiving Hikes page on the Tennessee State Parks website. These hikes are part of the Tennessee State Parks Signature Hikes series, which also includes First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day, Spring Hikes, and National Trails Day Hikes.

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Fire Safety Tips for Thanksgiving in Tennessee

The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance and the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office remind residents to prioritize fire safety during Thanksgiving, as cooking-related fires notably increase. In 2023, cooking fires were the leading cause of home fires in Tennessee, causing injuries and significant property damage. Residents are urged to use smoke alarms, monitor cooking activities, and follow safety tips to reduce fire risks. For more information on home fire safety, download the SFMO home fire safety checklist here.