Thanksgiving in Jefferson Parish 2026
Where to Eat, What to Do & How to Celebrate the Long Weekend
Thanksgiving in Jefferson Parish isn’t just about the food on the table. It’s about the people who make this place feel like home, the neighbors who wave from their porches, the chefs who bring Southern comfort to every plate, and the small business owners who greet you like an old friend.
It’s the kind of place where traditions run deep and every gathering feels like family. From the first bite of turkey to the last sunset over the bayou, Thanksgiving here is more than a holiday, it’s a celebration of community, culture, and connection. We’ve gathered the top dinner spots and local happenings so you can enjoy every flavorful, festive moment of your holiday in Jefferson Parish.
Thanksgiving Dining Options
Note: Please contact each restaurant directly to confirm menus, hours and dietary accommodations ahead of the holiday.
Things to Do Thanksgiving Weekend in Jefferson Parish
Thanksgiving in Jefferson Parish feels like coming home even if you’re just visiting. From lively markets to peaceful bayou drives, there’s no shortage of ways to take in the parish’s culture, character, and charm.
Shop Local and Savor the Season
Kick off the weekend at one of our community markets, where the air smells of fresh pastries and friendly conversation. Browse handcrafted gifts, locally grown produce, and homemade treats at the Lafrenière Park Farmers & Art Market in Metairie on Wednesday, the Gretna Farmers Market on Saturday, or the Harahan Farmers Market every Sunday. Each one captures the heart of its neighborhood with warm smiles, good food, and that unmistakable Louisiana flair.
Soak Up the Outdoors
Spend a little time outside and let the season slow you down. Lafrenière Park in Metairie is a favorite local escape, with wide open green spaces, calm lagoons, and shady paths perfect for a morning walk or a lazy afternoon picnic.
Take the Long Way Home
Head down toward Crown Point and Marrero for a scenic drive through the Bayou des Familles area. You’ll pass towering oaks and quiet waters that reflect the beauty and soul of Jefferson Parish. It’s the kind of peaceful ride that reminds you what Thanksgiving is all about: family, gratitude, and simple moments that mean the most.
Find Holiday Cheer on Black Friday & Small Business Saturday
If your Thanksgiving tradition includes a little shopping, you’ll find plenty of holiday spirit along Veterans Memorial Boulevard in Metairie. From locally owned boutiques to major retailers, this stretch comes alive on Black Friday with festive energy, good deals, and friendly faces.
Want something more? Visit our Events page for the latest happenings scheduled for Thanksgiving weekend.
Plan Your Thanksgiving in Jefferson Parish
From hearty buffets and bayou brunches to charming markets and scenic drives, Jefferson Parish offers a meaningful way to celebrate the holiday. Celebrate Thanksgiving the Jefferson Parish way with good company, good food, and plenty of local spirit. So pull up a chair, grab a slice of pie, and stay a while.
Schedule your trip with our Plan Your Trip tool that makes booking accommodations and finding recommendations easy.
More Holiday Fun
Holiday Events in Jefferson Parish
Christmas in Jefferson Parish is a one-of-a-kind experience, featuring light shows and a lot of shopping!
Holiday Dinner Recipes
If you're like us, you've made a list (and checked it twice) and discovered that there's a lot to do…
Holiday Apple Cider Recipes
The holidays are upon us! And I feel like pumpkin spice gets all the attention during this season.
Christmas in Lafreniere Park
Lafreniere Park sparkles for the holidays with millions of twinkling lights and displays! Constructed with over 10 million LED lights, this holiday favorite features elaborate decorations, artificial snow, and festive light displays…
Kenner’s Heritage Park Christmas Village
Each year in December, the streets and buildings in historic Rivertown from the railroad tracks to the river, are adorned with dazzling lights and displays.
Christmas in Gretna
Celebrate the holiday season in Historic Downtown Gretna, a charming community in Jefferson Parish, just a short drive from downtown New Orleans.
Related Content:
Copeland's of New Orleans Clearview1001 South Clearview Parkway
Jefferson, Louisiana 70121
United States
1001 South Clearview Parkway | Jefferson, LA 70121 (504) 620-7800
Boulevard American Bistro4241 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Suite 7
Metairie, Louisiana 70006
United States
4241 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Suite 7 | Metairie, LA 70006 (504) 889-2301
Restaurant des Familles7163 Barataria Boulevard
Marrero, Louisiana 70072
United States
7163 Barataria Boulevard | Marrero, LA 70072 (504) 689-7834
Deanie's Seafood1713 Lake Avenue
Metairie, Louisiana 70005
United States
1713 Lake Avenue | Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 834-4141
Treasure Chest Casino4540 Williams Boulevard
Kenner, Louisiana 70065
United States
4540 Williams Boulevard | Kenner, LA 70065 (504) 443-8000