Thursday, November 28, 2024
Thanksgiving, a beloved American holiday, has found a special place in the heart of Europe, with vibrant celebrations spreading across major cities. The United Kingdom, France, Italy, Denmark, Germany, and Spain are leading the charge in embracing the spirit of gratitude, offering an exciting blend of traditional American customs and local culinary artistry. Whether it’s a cozy feast in Copenhagen, an elegant dinner in Paris, or a lively gathering in Barcelona, these countries are transforming Thanksgiving into a global celebration. Here’s what you need to know about how each country is making Thanksgiving 2024 an unforgettable experience.
Thanksgiving, while traditionally an American holiday, is embraced in many European cities with events and menus catering to expatriates and locals alike. Here’s how key destinations in Europe are celebrating Thanksgiving this year, with updated details on venues and offerings.
United Kingdom
In London, Thanksgiving celebrations are a grand affair. The Hard Rock Cafe London is offering Thanksgiving dinners from November 28 to December 1, featuring a menu priced at £25.99 per person. Guests can enjoy slow-roasted turkey breast, home-style stuffing, creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and traditional gravy. Drake & Morgan Restaurants are presenting a four-course Thanksgiving menu from November 18 to December 1 for £49.95 per person, including dishes like sweetcorn chowder, roast turkey with chestnut stuffing, and pumpkin pie. At Bodean’s BBQ Soho, a Thanksgiving feast is available on November 28, showcasing smoked turkey and key lime pie as part of a three-course menu.
France
Paris offers a sophisticated Thanksgiving experience. Le Drugstore celebrates on November 28 with a Thanksgiving menu crafted by Chef Eric Frechon, blending American traditions with French culinary artistry. Fouquet’s Paris also hosts a special USA-themed dinner on Thanksgiving evening, featuring French-inspired takes on American classics. Rivages at Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra adds to the elegance with a traditional Thanksgiving menu served in a refined setting. Each venue provides a unique way to enjoy the holiday with a French twist.
Italy
Rome continues its Thanksgiving traditions with a mix of cultural and culinary experiences. Hard Rock Cafe Rome is hosting Thanksgiving Night on November 28, accompanied by live music, offering a festive atmosphere alongside its signature American-inspired menu. Vivi Bistrot is serving Thanksgiving dinners at its locations in ViVi – Le Serre, Piazza Navona, and Piazza Venezia. Their traditional menu includes dishes like organic pumpkin cream, stuffed turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie, priced at €45 per person. Vegan options are also available, ensuring inclusivity for all diners.
Denmark
Copenhagen’s Thanksgiving celebrations cater to expatriates and locals interested in American traditions. The American Pie Company is hosting its annual Thanksgiving dinner, featuring savory turkey pies and pumpkin desserts. AmCham Denmark’s Family Thanksgiving Dinner at the Copenhagen Marriott Hotel includes a traditional Thanksgiving meal, live music, and children’s activities, making it a family-friendly event. Folkekirken for Internationals is organizing a Thanksgiving feast at Eliaskirken, where participants share migration stories and enjoy traditional dishes in a warm, inclusive setting.
Germany
Thanksgiving in Germany is a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. The Hard Rock Cafe Berlin is celebrating Thanksgiving on November 28 with a traditional menu that includes slow-roasted turkey breast, sweet potato mash, home-style stuffing, roasted vegetables, cranberry sauce, and gravy. Masha’s Bagel and Delicatessen in Berlin offers a more casual option with a no-reservations lunch from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm, featuring a Thanksgiving plate with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and vegetables. In Munich, the Hilton Munich Park is hosting a Thanksgiving buffet from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm, priced at €85 per person. The buffet includes red snapper, suckling pig, and Thanksgiving classics, complemented by a selection of beverages.
Spain
Thanksgiving in Spain is marked by lively celebrations, especially in Barcelona and Madrid. Flaherty’s Irish Pub in Barcelona offers an authentic Thanksgiving experience with a special menu that includes pumpkin soup, roasted turkey, and pecan pie. Cocovail Beer Hall, also in Barcelona, hosts a Thanksgiving event on November 28 with time slots available for reservations. Their €30 menu includes turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cornbread, green beans, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. In Madrid, the Hard Rock Cafe is celebrating Thanksgiving from November 25 to 28, serving a turkey entrée complete with traditional sides like sweet potato mash and cranberry sauce.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving 2024 brings a rich variety of celebrations across Europe, with cities offering unique takes on the holiday. From the elegance of Paris to the lively atmosphere of Barcelona, and from traditional feasts in Berlin to community gatherings in Copenhagen, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These events reflect the universal themes of gratitude and togetherness, making Thanksgiving a cherished occasion far beyond its American origins. Whether you’re an expatriate or a local seeking to experience this cultural tradition, Europe’s Thanksgiving celebrations promise a memorable holiday.
