Where to Celebrate Thanksgiving Abroad (Even If You're Not American)
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Thinking about spending Thanksgiving somewhere new - or just want a taste of turkey and togetherness while traveling or living abroad? Whether you’re a curious explorer, an expat, or a local looking to join the feast, Thanksgiving overseas is the perfect excuse to gather, eat well, and make new international friends. Here’s how (and where) to do it in style.
Why Try Thanksgiving Abroad?
Thanksgiving isn’t just about the traditional American holiday - it’s a great opportunity for any traveler to experience warm hospitality, good food, and a mix of cultures. You’ll find everything from embassy parties in capital cities to epic potlucks, restaurant feasts, and “Friendsgiving” celebrations put on by international expat groups or enterprising locals.
Top Destinations for Thanksgiving Around the World
London, UK: Legendary hotels (like The Goring) and classic American restaurants throw grand Thanksgiving dinners - think turkey, pumpkin pie, and lively expat crowds.
Paris, France: The American Church of Paris, local diners, and Paris expat groups organize buffets, as do trendy sports bars in the Marais or Latin Quarter.
Madrid and Barcelona, Spain: American clubs, sports bars, and the Internations network host affordable feasts - plus a local DIY tradition of “Friendsgiving” with global guests.
Lisbon, Portugal & Berlin, Germany: Growing expat scenes mean more pubs, international hotels, and pop-up events serving roast dinners with all the trimmings.
Rome, Athens, and Amsterdam: Look for embassy events, chic restaurants, or hostel dinners - many open to non-Americans, travelers, and locals alike.
Mexico City & Cancun, Mexico: Resorts, expat clubs, and US-style restaurants offer all the classics, often with a local flavor twist.
Costa Rica & Panama: Expatriate families, international schools, and beach hostels organize group “turkey parties.” Local supermarkets step up with American products for a home-cooked meal.
Dominican Republic & the Caribbean: High-end resorts and clubs (Eden Roc, Punta Cana, and Cap Cana) have festive menus, beach bonfires, and family crafts.
Shanghai, Beijing, and Suzhou, China: Expats and hotel restaurants put on big spreads - sometimes all week - while InterNations and Meetup groups let you join a table, no matter your background.
Tokyo, Japan: US-themed cafés, international hotels, local delis, and Friendsgiving potlucks abound - frequently booked up, so plan ahead.
Australia & New Zealand: American bars in Sydney, Melbourne, and Auckland open doors for anyone wanting to join the feast (and maybe catch an NFL game on TV).
Don’t Miss: Non-Traditional, Local Twists
- In many cities, Thanksgiving is celebrated on a weekend so everyone can join - expats, exchange students, and even local friends who are just in it for the pie!
- “Friendsgiving” is growing in popularity worldwide - host a meal in your rental, invite your hostel crew, or join one at an international co-living space.
- Look for local food markets, farmers, and specialty shops: Paris, Berlin, and Lisbon now stock cranberries, pumpkin, and even canned fried onions for green bean casseroles.
How to Find a Thanksgiving Dinner Abroad
- Search Facebook groups for “Thanksgiving [city name]” or “expat events.”
- Check with international hotels (Hilton, Marriott, Curio, etc.) and American-themed restaurants in big cities.
- Connect via organizations like Internations, Meetup, or American clubs - many dinners are “open door” and you don’t have to be from the US.
Tips for Traveling or Hosting Your Own
- Book early! Expats and curious locals fill up events quickly.
- Try a potluck: ask friends or your guesthouse/hostel to bring a traditional dish from their home country for a true cultural feast.
- Live the holiday to the fullest by sharing gratitude and traditions (like toasts or post-dinner walks) - no matter where in the world you are.
Stay Connected & Share the Experience
Don’t forget, planning a holiday feast or navigating new socials means you’ll want reliable data and maps! Set up your eSIM before you jet off for easy WhatsApp invites, video calls with family, and epic pie photos - see our guide for the best devices/tips or explore .
Celebrating Thanksgiving abroad can mean cuisine mashups, new friendships, and a true sense of gratitude - no passport or citizenship required. Bon appétit, buen provecho, and happy feasting wherever you are!
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Want travel tech that lets you book, share, and navigate in any country? See our page about the ultimate eSIM guide for travelers.
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