A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
Spending the holidays in Massachusetts is a wonderful experience. From the small-town communities that welcome you like family to the festive city events, there’s something special about this time of year in the Bay State. Nowhere is that truer than in Plymouth, Massachusetts, which is gearing up to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the first Thanksgiving. If you’re looking for a memorable day trip marked by festivities, history, and unique storytelling, a day trip to Plymouth belongs at the top of your itinerary. Here’s more on what you can look forward to when you plan a trip to Plymouth, Massachusetts.
Steeped in history and natural beauty, the town of Plymouth makes for an excellent day trip destination in any season. Yet there's something truly special about autumn, when we remember the first Thanksgiving that took place right here in America's Hometown.
2021 will mark the 400th anniversary of this poignant event, and America's Hometown Thanksgiving Celebration is one of the best ways to celebrate and remember.
This year's event is scheduled for November 19th - 21st and will include a parade, waterfront activities, the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra Concert, a craft beer and wine garden, and access to the "Portal to the Past" Historic Village as well as the Native American Pavilion. For more details about this event, click here.
If you've ever wondered what living in Plymouth might have been like in the early 17th century, you'll want to attend the Pilgrim Progress.
Scheduled for November 25th between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., this historical reenactment shows the Pilgrims’ procession to church. Locals and visitors alike will be dressed in traditional Pilgrim attire, representing the 51 Pilgrims who survived that harsh first winter in America. For more information, click here.
No trip to Plymouth is complete without visiting the Plimoth Patuxet Museums. It's here that the history of the region is brought to life, and visitors can learn about both the Plymouth Colony and the Indigenous homeland.
Another seasonal event you won't want to miss is the Vintner's Experience at 1620 Winery. Hosted by owner and winemaker Robert Mullaney, the event offers a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting of this fantastic local winery.
After the insightful tour, you'll have the chance to sample some exclusive wines along with a delicious charcuterie board. Reservations for this event are required, so be sure to click here.
Of course, simply exploring the scenic, history-filled streets of Plymouth will help illuminate the Thanksgiving stories that we're all so familiar with.
The very first Thanksgiving was held near Leyden Street, photographed above. The historic street was created by the pilgrims in 1620 and is believed to be the oldest street in all the 13 colonies.
So what are you waiting for? Make this Thanksgiving season all the more memorable with a trip to Plymouth, Massachusetts.
When was the last time you visited Plymouth, Massachusetts? We would love to hear all about your experiences in the comments below. For more information about planning your trip, be sure to visit the See Plymouth website. You can also follow See Plymouth on Facebook for exciting updates and more.