Your Complete Guide to a Delicious 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

November 23rd, 1pm - 3pm

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 Seniors at the Morro Bay Community Center, all are welcome to stop by and grab a plate. This year, 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. We highly recommend calling to confirm and making reservations.

Upcoming Holiday Events

Grab your Santa hats and jingliest bells 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.

Annual Winter Faire & Juried Craft Show
Join us at this annual fair now through December 27th, every Wednesday, and see some of the finest artwork on the Central Coast. Explore a collection of paintings, photography, fine crafts, and more, and find a perfectly unique gift for someone you love.

Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Morro Bay’s Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is back on December 1st! Festivities kick off at 3pm, culminating in a magical tree lighting at 5pm 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.) starting at 6pm.

Santa’s House at the Embarcadero
Bring the family to Santa’s Ho-Ho-House on the first three weekends of December (Fridays and Saturdays from 4pm - 8pm and Sundays from 12pm - 4pm) 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
Join us on December 2nd at 6pm 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! From December 5th to 7th between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm, 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.

Each night targets a different section of town, ensuring that the holiday spirit reaches every corner of Morro Bay:

  • December 4th: North Morro Bay
  • December 5th: Downtown & Embarcadero
  • December 6th: South Morro Bay

We hope your Thanksgiving is delicious and full of love, happiness, and fantastic food! If you’re on the hunt for even more tasty fare, check out Morro Bay’s full selection of restaurants.

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