Your Complete Guide to Thanksgiving in Morro Bay

Let’s talk turkey: Morro Bay is the perfect Thanksgiving destination, full of gorgeous autumn colors and cool coastal breezes.

More than that, it provides the ideal backdrop for a Thanksgiving with your loved ones that you’ll never forget. Join us as we dive into the delicious food, festive events, and fun-filled Thanksgiving and holiday activities you won’t find anywhere else but Morro Bay.

Community Free Thanksgiving Dinner

2025 Morro Bay Community Free Thanksgiving Dinner

Get ready for a Community Free Thanksgiving Dinner that will leave your heart full, and your taste buds absolutely delighted. Graciously hosted by the Morro Bay Lions Club at the Morro Bay Community Center, all are welcome to stop by and grab a plate. This year, on November 27th, from 1pm to 3pm, the event offers drive-ups and walk-ups only, no sit-down dinner. Spread the love and think about volunteering to cook, serve, or help decorate.

Thanksgiving Meals in Morro Bay

We know Thanksgiving at home can be a cozy affair, but this year we invite you to let someone else do the cooking while you enjoy a feast for the senses. That means tables with seaside views that’ll make your jaw drop, and the tantalizing aroma of home-cooked food wafting through the air. All while you sit back and relax. From seafood specialties to Thanksgiving comfort food classics, Morro Bay’s restaurants are ready to serve you a meal that always comes with a side of coastal charm.

Here are some top spots that are serving up delicious Thanksgiving menus this year. For printable list CLICK HERE.

NOTE: Hours and availability are subject to change. We highly recommend calling to confirm and making reservations.

Explore Local Cuisine

Upcoming Thanksgiving & Holiday Events

Get ready to ramp up your seasonal spirit for Morro Bay’s lineup of holiday events, all of which are sure to make your heart grow at least three sizes. From craft shows to dazzling boat parades, there’s a little something for everyone in this coastal paradise.

Live Music & Nightlife

The Siren, Morro Bay’s go-to spot for live music, great food, and local vibes has a Thanksgiving line up that will be sure to brighten your holiday. See upcoming events below:

Friendsgiving Eve Party

Featuring the bands Murder Hornets and HERacanes with a Mad Alchemy analog liquid light show.
Wednesday, November 26, 2025 | 7 pm – 10:30 pm

Fan Halen

The World’s Most Authentic Tribute to Van Halen. A high-energy throwback night filled with classic hits.
Friday, November 28, 2025 | 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm

Holiday Movies

Whether you need something to do with visiting family or you need a few hours escaping them, you're in luck. The Bay Theatre Morro Bay is typically closed on Thursdays but has special holiday hours for Thanksgiving Day. This year enjoy a special showing of Wicked: For Good, the highly anticipated sequel to Wicked. Showtimes run from November 21 through December 10, 2025. Find more information here.

Turkey Trots and Outdoor Activities

Looking to work up an appetite before your Thanksgiving feast? Two nearby coastal communities host fun runs that are worth the short drive.

Cayucos Pier – Thanksgiving Day Family 5K Fun Run and Walk

Just 10 minutes north of Morro Bay, the charming beach town of Cayucos welcomes families for this scenic 5K along the shoreline.

Check-in and bib pick-up: Wednesday, November 26, from 2 to 4 pm at the pier
Race day: Thursday, November 27, check-in begins at 7:30 am, race starts at 8:30 am
Dogs, strollers, and kids on scooters are all welcome.
Register here

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Holiday Lights, Parades, and Traditions

These local favorites are expected to return in 2025. Check back soon for final dates and details.

Annual Winter Faire & Juried Craft Show
November 6, 2025 | 12 pm – 4 pm
This annual exhibit is Art Center's largest show of the year, both galleries are transformed into a winter wonderland. Come find the perfect gift while supporting local artisans.

San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden – Nature Lights 2025
November 26, 28, and 29, 2025 | 5 pm to 8 pm
Enjoy a magical outdoor light and music experience at the Botanical Garden. The event features live music on two stages and plenty of family fun.

Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 5, 2025 | 3:30 pm
Morro Bay’s Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is back! Festivities kick off at 3: 30 pm, culminating in a magical tree lighting at 5 pm in Morro Bay City Park. Santa himself will be present, and you can even snag a free photo at his house (located on the corner of Embarcadero and Front St.)

Santa’s House at the Embarcadero
December 6-20, 2025
Bring the family to Santa’s Ho-Ho-House on the first three weekends of December (Fridays and Saturdays from 5 pm to 8 pm and Sundays from 12 pm to 4 pm) to grab a festive photo with Saint Nick! Admission is free— just don’t forget to think of what you want for Christmas.

Lighted Boat Parade
December 13, 2025
Join us on December 13 at 6:30 pm along the Embarcadero for a spectacular display of festive boats! Fishing, leisure, and yachting boats take to the seas adorned with dazzling lights, competing for prizes and marking the beginning of the holiday season.

Caroling Cops
What’s that sound? Why, it’s the sweet caroling of Morro Bay police, of course! Keep your ears tuned for the cheerful sounds of sirens and music, and your eyes peeled for a special sight: Santa Claus himself, accompanied by police employees and members of the community! This festive crew will be touring the streets of Morro Bay on a decorated trolley, bringing smiles and gifts to kids as they go on their merry way.

Black Friday and Small Business Saturday

After your Thanksgiving feast, explore the shops along the Embarcadero and downtown for holiday sales, local crafts, and Small Business Saturday deals. It is a great way to find one-of-a-kind gifts and support Morro Bay merchants.

Where to Shop

We hope your Thanksgiving is delicious and full of love, happiness, and fantastic food! Please CLICK HERE for a list of Restaurants open for Thanksgiving. If you’re on the hunt for even more tasty fare before or after Thanksgiving Day, check out Morro Bay’s full selection of restaurants.