Nacogdoches, TX – November 26, 2025 As East Texas families finalize their Thanksgiving menus, Nacogdoches is gearing up for a full slate of holiday events that blend tradition, charity, and good old-fashioned fun.
The biggest draw on Thanksgiving morning remains the 16th Annual Pilgrim’s Turkey Trot 5K and Kids K, set for Thursday, November 27 at Pecan Acres Park. Race director Amanda Livingston says registration is pacing ahead of last year. “We’re celebrating the Nacogdoches Area United Way’s 75th anniversary this year, so we’ve got sparkly turkey shirts and extra medals for the kids,” Livingston said. The Kids K (ages 10 and under) is free, while adult registration is $35 (includes long-sleeve shirt if signed up by early November). The race starts at 8:30 a.m., with the Kids K at 8:00 a.m.
For those who prefer to give rather than run, two major community efforts are underway:
- Freedom Church will once again host its Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Thanksgiving Day. The free meal is open to anyone in need or simply looking for fellowship. Last year the church served more than 100 people, and organizers expect similar turnout. Volunteers are still needed for setup and serving.
- On Friday night, Maklemore’s Ale House & Bistro is hosting a Karaoke Food Drive: Thanksgiving Edition starting at 8 p.m. Bring at least one non-perishable item for the East Texas Food Bank (or donate $5 or more) and sing your heart out. All proceeds help fund a separate free community Thanksgiving meal later in the season.
Wine lovers can get an early start on holiday festivities this Sunday, November 23, with the Thanksgiving Tasting Tour. Several local wineries, including Red House Winery, will offer seasonal tastings and light bites from noon to 5 p.m. Tickets range from $25–$40.
Post-Thanksgiving, the historic Nacogdoches Railroad Depot opens its popular Loblolly Model Train Display on Friday, November 28. The free exhibit runs three weekends and draws train enthusiasts of all ages.
Meanwhile, the Nacogdoches Dragons football team will be on the sidelines this Thanksgiving after finishing the regular season 6-3 and missing the playoffs. Across town, the Garrison Bulldogs are keeping East Texas playoff hopes alive with a regional-round matchup Friday night against powerhouse Refugio.
Whether you’re running off calories, serving others, or just soaking in the holiday lights downtown, Nacogdoches has plenty of ways to make Thanksgiving 2025 memorable.