Thanksgiving in Newnan, GA: Small-Town Festivities & Dining Guide
Thanksgiving in Newnan, Georgia combines Southern warmth, a tight-knit community, and charming local traditions. Whether you're celebrating with family, stopping in for a holiday visit, or exploring Newnan, GA real estate and imagining life here, Thanksgiving weekend in Newnan offers a perfect blend of reflection, gratitude, and community spirit.
Here’s your insider guide to the best things to do, where to eat, and how to soak up small-town Thanksgiving charm in Newnan this holiday season.
What to Do for Thanksgiving Weekend in Newnan
Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts (Nov 22, 2025)
For a more relaxed, creative start to the holiday, head to Chattahoochee Bend State Park for a ranger-led craft session. Kids (and adults) can build turkey puppets and learn about wildlife while crafting, all for a small fee.
It’s a sweet, family-oriented event that captures the spirit of giving and creativity without the hustle of a big festival.
Hoppy Thanksgiving Eve at Line Creek Brewing (Nov 26, 2025)
On the evening before Thanksgiving, Line Creek Brewing The Reserve is hosting a “Hoppy Thanksgiving Eve” celebration from noon to 10 PM.
They’ll have Circle M BBQ serving from 4-9 PM, plus a DJ later in the evening. It’s a great way to unwind, hang out with friends, and toast to the holiday.
LINC’d Up Turkey Trot (Nov 27, 2025)
Start your Thanksgiving Day with some healthy energy. The LINC’d Up Turkey Trot (5K & 1-mile) kicks off at Summer Grove Town Hall. This family-friendly event draws runners, walkers, and community members alike, it’s a meaningful way to celebrate gratitude while supporting local schools.
All proceeds benefit Newnan Crossing Elementary and Welch Elementary, making it more than just a fun run, and it’s a way to give back!
Annual Thanksgiving Feast Downtown (Nov 27, 2025)
If you don’t want to cook or just want to enjoy a communal meal, join the Annual Thanksgiving Feast at The Cellar in Downtown Newnan.
This event runs from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM, with a home-cooked style dinner in a warm, welcoming setting. Perfect for families, neighbors, or anyone looking to spend Thanksgiving in community.
Santa on the Square (Nov 28, 2025)
Though technically on the day after Thanksgiving, the Santa on the Square event is a festive kickoff to the Christmas season.
Santa arrives by fire truck in Historic Downtown Newnan, the Christmas tree is lit, and children can visit with him right on the Courthouse Square.
It’s a beloved local tradition that draws families and visitors, a perfect way to stay in the holiday spirit after Thanksgiving.
Small Business Saturday (Nov 29, 2025)
Stick around for Small Business Saturday the day after Thanksgiving, when Downtown Newnan shops welcome holiday shoppers.
Explore boutiques, local artisans, and seasonal pop-ups, an ideal time to find unique gifts for the holidays while supporting Newnan’s vibrant local economy.
Thanksgiving Dining Options in Newnan, GA
When it comes to Thanksgiving dining in Newnan, there are a few standout spots to consider, from community-style meals to casual hangouts:
The Cellar (Downtown Newnan): Hosts the Annual Thanksgiving Feast with a warm, home-style menu that gives you the feeling of a shared holiday table.
Line Creek Brewing The Reserve: While not offering a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, their Hoppy Thanksgiving Eve event (with BBQ) provides a more festive, laid-back pre-holiday hangout.
Local Community Dinners / Outreach: The BTG Community Outreach is offering a Thanksgiving Dinner on Nov 26, open to the public.
While Newnan doesn’t have as many large-scale sit-down Thanksgiving restaurants as some big cities, these options provide a mix of cozy meals, community connection, and festive spirit.
Why Thanksgiving in Newnan Feels Special
Tight-Knit Community: From the Turkey Trot to community dinners, Newnan’s Thanksgiving celebrations are deeply rooted in giving back and coming together.
Small-Town Charm: Historic downtown Newnan, with its brick buildings and Courthouse Square, is especially lovely this time of year.
Family-Friendly Traditions: Events like the Arts & Crafts session and Santa on the Square make Thanksgiving weekend accessible and fun for all ages.
Support for Locals: Participating in Small Business Saturday is a great way to support local businesses and artisans, many of whom call Newnan home year-round.
Tips for a Smooth Thanksgiving Visit in Newnan
Register Early for the Turkey Trot: If you want to do the 5K, sign up ahead of time, it’s a popular community event.
Make a Reservation for the Feast: The Cellar’s Thanksgiving lunch is beloved; call ahead to secure a spot if possible.
Bring the Kids: Events like Arts & Crafts and Santa on the Square are especially kid-friendly. Great for families!
Plan for Parking: Downtown can get busy, especially on Small Business Saturday. Leave a little extra time to find a parking spot.
Dress for Comfort: Thanksgiving Day can be chilly, so layers are a good bet and comfortable shoes for walking around the square or to the Turkey Trot.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving in Newnan, GA isn’t just about the food, it’s about coming together, giving back, and experiencing a small town that truly values community. From the Turkey Trot to family-style feasts and festive shopping, there’s something deeply meaningful about how Newnan celebrates this holiday.
If spending Thanksgiving here inspires you to move to Newnan, GA, or if you're curious about the Newnan, GA homes available on the market right now, let’s talk! The Tim Stout Group with eXp knows this community inside and out, and we can help you find your dream home here!
