Whether it’s a tradition or your first-time joining Avalon for Thanksgiving weekend, 2018 will not disappoint. The island boasts three days of action-packed activities for all ages to enjoy. From a tree auction, to character meet and greets, carnival rides, live music, festive refreshments and more! Avalon is here for the perfect kick-off to the holiday season.
Start the weekend early with festive treats and twinkling lights at the annual Festival of Trees starting on Wednesday, Nov. 21 at 5 p.m. and continuing Friday, Nov. 23 at noon. More than 40 trees and wreaths, decorated by local businesses, will be on display for auction and purchase!
Burn of those turkey treat calories with a cheerful run through town with the annual Turkey Trot 5K and 1.5-mile walk on Friday, starting at 10 a.m. Dress up your team with fun costumes, and enjoy a brisk paced run for a great cause. All proceeds are set to benefit the Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children. Day-of registration is available at the Avalon Community Hall.
Following a trot through town, grab a schedule and jump in to more than 40 free activities for the entire family to enjoy. From festive treats and snacks, to photo ops, face painting, hands-on crafts, activities and more, downtown Avalon is buzzing with activities. New for 2018, dance your way downtown with multiple holiday performances by The Corner Boys & Co. Holiday Band and experience interactive children’s performances with your favorite superhorse and characters in between sets.
All festivities lead up to the highly anticipated arrival of Santa himself as he arrives to Veterans Plaza at 5 p.m. on Friday evening via firetruck and joins Avalon’s Mayor Martin Pagliughi for the official tree lighting ceremony.
The fun doesn’t stop on Friday, so be sure to return on Saturday, Nov. 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for another day of activities including carnival rides, live music by The Marinos, interactive children’s performances and, of course, the return of Santa himself for free family photos.
A full schedule of events is available at www.visitavalonnj.com, or one of the many participating stores through Avalon.