Thanksgiving in Miami: Where to Dine, Celebrate, and Give Back

Thanksgiving in Miami means sunshine instead of snow, palm trees instead of pine, and a blend of coastal elegance and holiday warmth. Whether you’re hosting out-of-town guests, planning a special night out, or looking to make a meaningful impact this season, the Magic City has you covered. Here are three standout options in each category—dining, celebrating, and giving back—to help you craft an unforgettable Thanksgiving experience.

Where to Dine

1. Fontainebleau Miami Beach – „Thanksgiving Feast 2025”

Fontainebleau, an iconic Miami Beach resort, pulls out all the stops for Thanksgiving. On Thursday, November 27, they host a multi-option feast: a lavish all-you-can-eat buffet at Vida (2 PM–9 PM) featuring seasonal salads, a raw bar, carving stations, classic sides, and desserts — plus a welcome cocktail. 

If you prefer a sit-down dinner, Mirabella offers a prix-fixe menu with sophisticated fall-flavored dishes like Golden Beet Salad Panzanella and Amaro Poached Pear Tart.

And at Prime 54, you can enjoy a steakhouse-style meal with aged cuts, fresh seafood, and signature sides. 
Fontainebleau

Pricing (as of 2025): Vida lunch buffet is around $110++ for adults, $50++ for kids 10 and under, while Mirabella is $85++ per person.

2. Mr. C Miami – Coconut Grove (Bellini Restaurant)

For a refined, intimate Thanksgiving dinner away from the tourist crowds, Bellini at Mr. C in Coconut Grove is a stellar choice. While they don’t publicly publish every year’s menu far in advance, in previous years the lunch (12 PM–4 PM) and dinner (5 PM–10 PM) options have included creative takes on holiday classics — think slow-roasted turkey with seasonal sides, risotto, and cozy Italian-inspired comfort dishes. 

The ambiance is elegant yet relaxing, with views of Biscayne Bay and Mediterranean-style interiors — perfect for a more laid-back but special holiday dinner.

3. (Bonus) Beachside or Country Club Buffet
If you're open to something a little more laid-back or traditional, check out local country clubs or upscale hotels. For example, Miami Shores Country Club typically hosts a Thanksgiving buffet (around 1:30 PM–5 PM on Thanksgiving) with turkey, seasonal vegetables, and dessert. 

Dining here gives you a quiet, community feel — a nice alternative if you want something festive but not over the top.

Where to Celebrate

1. 50th Annual WinterNational Thanksgiving Day Parade

One of Miami area’s most beloved traditions, the 50th Annual Winternational Parade, takes place on Thursday, November 27, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM along NE 125th Street (from NE 6th to 10th Avenues) in North Miami. 

This parade features marching bands (from middle schools, high schools, and community groups), dance troupes, themed floats, stilt walkers, classic cars, and more. The main stage is set at North Miami City Hall (776 NE 125th Street). It’s a vibrant, family-friendly way to kick off Thanksgiving in true community spirit.

2. Sunrise Art Deco Walking Tour (Thanksgiving Morning)

If you prefer something calm and reflective, consider starting your Thanksgiving Day at sunrise with an Art Deco walking tour in Miami Beach’s historic district. According to local event listings, these tours typically begin early (around 6:30 AM) at the Art Deco Welcome Center (1001 Ocean Drive), allowing participants to experience the glow of sunrise over iconic architecture. 

It’s a quiet, meaningful way to pause, reflect, and appreciate Miami’s unique design heritage before the day’s feasting begins.

3. Thanksgiving Eve & Weekend Festivities

Beyond Thanksgiving Day itself, the long weekend is packed with celebrations. According to event guides, there are Thanksgiving Eve bar crawls (e.g., Nov 26), live music parties, and the URGE Miami Thanksgiving Festival (Nov 28–30, 2025) featuring themed nightlife, beach-style gatherings, and vibrant social energy. 

These events are great for friends, couples, or anyone wanting to extend their holiday experience in Miami beyond the dinner table.

Where to Give Back

1. Branches – Thanksgiving Meal Delivery

Branches, a long-standing nonprofit in South Florida, is leading its 25th Annual Thanksgiving Meal Delivery on Thursday, November 27, 2025, and is planning to deliver over 6,000 fresh, hearty meals to families across Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. 

Volunteer registration typically opens in early November, and volunteers can help pack and deliver meals. 

They also have Amazon Wish List options for in-kind donations. 

This is a deeply impactful way to give — you’re directly helping to feed people in need on the holiday and being part of a long-standing tradition.

2. The Miami Foundation – Give Miami Day & Volunteer Opportunities

Launching at midnight on November 20, 2025, “Give Miami Day” is a 24-hour online fundraising event supporting local nonprofits. The Foundation also lists volunteer opportunities throughout November, including holiday-focused drives.

Thanksgiving in Miami is more than a meal — it’s a blend of community pride, cultural celebration, and heartfelt service. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones for a luxurious dinner, starting the day with a parade or peaceful walk, or choosing to give back by volunteering or donating, the Magic City offers a meaningful and lively way to spend the holiday.

This year, why not do a mix? Grab brunch at Fontainebleau, catch the parade, and then head out as a volunteer in the afternoon. You’ll leave your Thanksgiving in Miami feeling full, grateful, and more deeply connected to your community.

Happy Thanksgiving — Miami style! 🌴🧡