Thanksgiving to Christmas: How to Spend the Ultimate Long Weekend in Big Bear

Find a Cabin Rental in Big Bear for the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot

Here are the Top Events and Experiences

Big Bear Weekday Experiences | Wednesday, Nov 26

Start your Thanksgiving weekend early and soak up a quieter side of Big Bear before the holiday rush begins. Wednesday offers the perfect mix of crisp mountain air, fall colors, and outdoor adventure — all before town fills up for the long weekend.

Kick off your getaway with a sunset hike through Castle Rock Trail or the Alpine Pedal Path for unbeatable lake views and leaf peeping. If you’re craving more excitement, spend the day exploring Big Bear’s wild side with a zipline tour, off-road adventure, or rope course challenge. Families can enjoy a few friendly laps at SpeedZone Go-Karts, then unwind with a cozy dinner at one of Big Bear’s local restaurants before settling into your cabin for the night.

Arriving on Wednesday means no traffic, more time outdoors, and a chance to truly relax before the festivities begin!

Thanksgiving Turkey Trot | Thursday, Nov 27 from 8:00 – 10:30 AM

Start your holiday morning with a Big Bear tradition; the annual Turkey Trot. Whether you run, walk, or jog in costume, this fun community event is the perfect way to work up an appetite before your feast. Reserve lodging directly on BigBear.com and select a qualifying 2-night stay that includes November 27th, 2025.

Receive details of your stay along with a QR code for tickets.

Show your lodging confirmation QR at the race check-in at Dank Donuts (42612 Moonridge Rd) to redeem tickets for your whole crew and join in the fun at the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot. Check out the details here.

Christmas Tree Lighting & Santa’s Arrival | Friday, Nov 28 from 4:30-7:00 PM

Don’t pack up after Thanksgiving; the magic continues Friday night with the annual tree lighting ceremony, when Big Bear Village officially transforms into a holiday wonderland. The evening kicks off with Big Bear Comedy Fest’s Jason Love hosting the event at 4:30 PM, followed by festive performances from The Mountain Marvels “Carnegie Kids” and the Moonridge School of Dance with songs from The Nutcracker Suite. The celebration continues with holiday favorites sung by The Mountain Marvelettes, leading up to the main event; Santa Claus and City Council lighting the tree at 5:50 PM.

The festivities wrap up with an A Capella performance by Jingle 5 at 6:00 PM, filling The Village with Christmas cheer before the evening concludes at 7:00 PM. It’s a night of lights, laughter, and local talent; a perfect way to kick off the holiday season in Big Bear.

Small Business Saturday Shopping | Saturday, Nov 29

Skip the mall crowds and explore Big Bear’s one-of-a-kind local businesses you won’t find anywhere else. From artisan and sustainable goods at Bear Cupboard Market and Rewind Collective, to vintage treasures at the Mountain Mod Shop to trailer runner-specific items from Yellow Post, wellness finds from Zeff Grown, and nature-inspired gifts from Chirps and the Big Bear Discovery Center full of thoughtful gifts that truly capture the spirit of the mountains.

First Snow Play & Winter Sports | Friday, Nov 29

For many SoCal visitors, the real thrill is trading malls for mountains. If the weather cooperates, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain often open runs by Thanksgiving weekend, and Big Bear Snow Play and Alpine Slide offer tubing and sledding fun for all ages.

Festival of Lights Drive | Friday, Nov 29 – Dec 31

By late November, the community’s Festival of Lights decorations are in full swing. Take an evening drive to see the town glow, or vote for your favorite display as locals compete for the most festive home or business.

Live Entertainment | Saturday, Nov 29 from 7:00-9:00 PM

Stay through Saturday night for “The Graduates – The Sound of Simon & Garfunkel” at the Big Bear Performing Arts Center (7–9 PM). Many Village pubs and eateries also feature live musicians for a relaxed, mountain-town vibe.

Football Viewing | Sunday, Nov 30 from 1:00-8:30 PM

Here are three top spots in Big Bear Lake to watch football games. 

1. Whiskey Dave’s
   Located in the heart of Big Bear Village, Whiskey Dave’s features 22 HD TVs and broadcasts both NFL and college football games.
2. Sandy’s Sports Bar & Restaurant
   A family-friendly sports bar with 19 TVs (per one source) in a casual atmosphere—great for catching games while in Big Bear.
3. Village Sports Bar
   Formerly “The Cave,” this bar boasts 47 TVs and caters to sports fans looking to watch major league games—including football.

Thanksgiving Dining Options

Big Bear has several local spots that serve special Thanksgiving menus (reservations recommended), while cafes and pubs offer casual, cozy alternatives. Check out the full list here. We also have a pirate Chef named Dawson who has over 20 years of culinary experience to make your Thanksgiving meal one to remember.

Book Your Cozy Cabin Today for a Lifetime of Traditions

Book directly through our website and avoid paying for third-party fees. Find the same listing on Airbnb and book directly with our website for less. Let our team of Big Bear locals help you plan your weekend; from dining reservations to event tips and outdoor adventures. Begin traditions like in your cabin rental by:

• Cooking a full Thanksgiving meal together in your rental kitchen
• Enjoy warm fire pits, hot cocoa, and time with loved ones
• Watch the big game or holiday movies in your living room

Find a Big Bear Cabin Rental for the thanksgiving weekend