NORTHWEST INDIANA | HOLIDAY TRADITIONS
Gather, Give Thanks & Feel at Home
GOOD FOOD. GOOD NEIGHBORS. PLENTY TO BE THANKFUL FOR.
Some of the best Thanksgiving memories happen before anyone sits down: the smell of something in the oven, an extra chair pulled up to the table, and the familiar debate over who makes the best pie. Here in Northwest Indiana, the season gives us plenty of ways to gather, give back and enjoy the places we call home.
Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 26, 2026. Whether you're hosting, visiting family or making a new tradition this year, here's a little inspiration for a holiday that feels like you.
Three Ways to Enjoy the Season
A morning outdoors, a thoughtful local purchase, or a festive outing - pick what sounds good and leave room to enjoy it.
THANKSGIVING MORNING
Start with the Turkey Trot
Make room for a little fresh air before the feast. The Valparaiso Turkey Trot 5K takes place Thursday, November 26, with walking, running and volunteering opportunities. The Porter-Starke Services Foundation fundraiser supports local behavioral and physical health programs. Check the organizer for registration, arrival and route details.
Turkey Trot DetailsKEEP IT LOCAL
Bring a little Northwest Indiana to the table
Let a neighborhood bakery handle the pie, pick up flowers from a local florist, or choose a thoughtful host gift from an independent shop. Order ahead and confirm holiday pickup hours so your last errand stays a quick one.
Explore Local ShoppingMAKE A DAY OF IT
Find your next holiday tradition
Build in time for a community outing alongside the cooking and visiting. Browse the regional calendar for markets, performances and seasonal celebrations, then confirm dates and tickets directly with the organizer before heading out.
Browse Local EventsMake Room for the Traditions You Love
You don't need a perfectly styled table or a packed schedule to make the day special. Ask everyone to bring a dish with a story behind it. Let the kids make place cards. Share one thing you're grateful for before the first bite, or invite a neighbor who might otherwise spend the day alone.
If the weather cooperates, a short neighborhood walk can be a welcome pause between dinner and dessert. If it doesn't, bring out the cards, queue up a favorite movie, and let the dishes wait a little longer. The point is time together.
A Little Planning, a More Relaxed Holiday
- One week out: Confirm your guest count, ask about dietary needs, and place bakery or catering orders before holiday cutoffs.
- A few days out: Share who is bringing what, clear a little refrigerator space, and check business hours for your last-minute stops.
- The day before: Set the table, plan a place for coats and bags, and let guests know where to park.
- On Thanksgiving: Give yourself permission to keep things simple. An extra chair and a warm welcome matter more than matching plates.
Leave a Little Room for Giving Back
The season is also a chance to think beyond our own table. Ask a local food pantry or community organization what it needs before donating, or choose one small way your household can help a neighbor.
McColly's Toys for Tots collection is another way to carry that spirit into the holiday season. New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off at any McColly office through December 4, 2026. Our guide has the details and the office locator.
A Season to Appreciate Home
Hosting has a way of showing us what we love about home: a kitchen where everyone gathers, a dining room that holds the whole crew, or a quiet corner after a busy day. Sometimes it also gets us thinking about what we'd like next.
If your holiday wish list includes a little more space, a different neighborhood, or a home closer to the people you love, I'm happy to help you explore the possibilities. For now, here's to good food, good company and another season of calling Northwest Indiana home.
Picture Your Next Holiday at Home
Dreaming of a bigger gathering space or a fresh start? Let's explore what your next chapter could look like.
Explore Northwest Indiana HomesWhat's Your Home Worth?Event details may change; confirm registration, hours and tickets directly with organizers. Thanksgiving table image is an illustrative image created for this guide.
Explore more local context and homes in our Valparaiso community guide.