Holidaymakers are already arranging to spend Thanksgiving in Sedona. The city has boomed in popularity for travelers seeking a unique destination to spend their holiday surrounded by nothing but beautiful red rock scenery and the people who mean the most to them.

If Sedona is primed to be the backdrop of all your fun Thanksgiving memories this year, be sure to check out our vacation rentals for large groups. Our properties give the whole family room to spread out, with kitchens big enough to cook the entire meal and dining rooms that seat everyone at once.

Here's what to expect from Thanksgiving in Sedona, from the weather to where to eat, and plenty of things to do before and after your holiday meal.

Thanksgiving Events in Sedona (2026)

There are only a couple of Thanksgiving events happening in Sedona, and they finish up early so that you have time to get back to your vacation rental and start on your holiday meal.

Sedona Turkey Trot 5K

• Date: November 26, 2026, 9 am
• Location: Posse Grounds Park
• Website: runsignup.com/Race/AZ/Sedona/SEDONATURKEYTROTK

The Turkey Trot sends runners and walkers on a 5K loop through the red rocks before anyone touches a plate. There's a kids' division for the younger crowd, and every finisher takes home a medal and a shirt. Some runners even like dressing up in turkey costumes for the race.

Sedona Weather at Thanksgiving and What to Pack

Photo Credit: Danita Delimont

Late November runs cool and dry, with average highs near 67°F and lows around 41°F. Afternoons stay comfortable enough for a long hike, and the mountain air cools fast once the sun drops behind the canyon walls.

Sedona sits around 4,300 feet. Although it's the desert, there's a small chance of light snow because of the elevation. Some trails and roads may be impacted by the weather, so be sure to check advisory alerts.

That swing is the entire packing strategy:

• Light layers for mild afternoons
• A warm jacket or fleece for cold nights
• Scarf, gloves, knit hat, and other accessories to stay cozy
• Hiking shoes with real tread
• Sun protection, because the high desert sun stays strong in November
• A water bottle for everyone in your group

Evenings are where a vacation rental earns its keep. A fire pit, a hot tub, or an afternoon at one of Sedona's spas fills the gap between the hike and the leftovers.

Other Things to Do in Sedona on Thanksgiving Weekend

Most guests stay for the entire weekend to maximize their Sedona vacation. You'll be busy with Thanksgiving Day plans on Thursday, but that leaves two or three days to fill up with other fun activities for your group or family. These activities are perfect for enjoying Sedona during the holidays.

Hike Off the Big Meal

November weather is one of the best times of year to hike Sedona's famous trails. However, since it's a holiday weekend, expect the popular trails to be busier.

There are trails suitable for all experience levels, so even the first-timer can get out and enjoy the outdoors. Bell Rock is the reliable choice for mixed-ability groups, while the Airport Mesa Loop delivers wraparound views without much climbing.

• Bell Rock Pathway: wide, flat, and easy with kids
• Airport Mesa Loop: the best sunset perch in town
• Fay Canyon Trail: short, shaded, and usually quieter

Check out our full guide to Sedona's best hikes for hidden gems that won't be as crowded this weekend.

Ride the Verde Canyon Railroad

Photo Credit: Zane Lewis

Immerse yourself in the Arizona red rock scenery on the Verde Canyon Railroad. This four-hour round trip treks through a stretch of canyon no road reaches, with open-air cars, food service, and a unique view of the Verde Valley.

Group packages are available, including private transfer, complimentary drinks and snacks, and discount vouchers.

We've written up a guide to what the ride is like if you want the details before booking. But don't hesitate for too long because holiday weekends sell out early.

Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is an architectural marvel renowned for its design built straight into the red rock. It's usually closed on Thanksgiving Day, but it's worth driving past to see it and enjoy the views near the chapel entrance.

If you pick another day to visit, you'll be able to enter for free and see the chapel glowing from sunlight entering the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Take a Jeep Tour Into the Backcountry

Wait till your stomach settles after the Thanksgiving feast before embarking on one of Sedona's thrilling jeep tours. It gets bumpy navigating the desert terrain.

These guided excursions take you off-roading through the red rocks to get an entirely new perspective on the landscape. Pink Adventure Tours runs the best-known scenic routes, and you can't miss their iconic pink jeeps driving around town.

Make reservations well in advance. It's one of the top things to do in Sedona, so expect Thanksgiving weekend to book up fast.

Shop Holiday Deals in Uptown Sedona and Tlaquepaque

The Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving are made for shopping in person rather than online. Uptown Sedona is walkable and packed with galleries, while Tlaquepaque is a shaded arts village of boutiques and restaurants built around open courtyards.

You might even score some great Black Friday deals. It's a great way to support the local artisans.

Where to Eat Thanksgiving Dinner in Sedona

Photo Credit: Cabeca de Marmore

Not cooking this year? Several Sedona restaurants serve a full Thanksgiving dinner, from resort buffets to prix fixe menus with a view. These fill up well in advance, so reserve as soon as your travel dates are set.

• Enchantment Resort: a ballroom buffet open to the public, not just hotel guests
• Cress on Oak Creek: a daytime buffet or family-style dinner at the inn’s beautiful creekside dining room
• Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill: a Latin-inspired holiday menu with red rock views
• Mesa Grill: special holiday menu at the Sedona Airport, with runway and canyon views
• Dahl & DiLuca: an Italian kitchen that runs a Thanksgiving menu alongside its regular one

Plenty of groups skip the reservation altogether. Sedona Premier's vacation rentals feature modern kitchens with full-size ovens and generous counter space to give you everything you need to prep food for the entire group.

If you’re looking for other great places to eat during the weekend, our list of the best restaurants in Sedona will give you something new for each meal.

Book Your Sedona Thanksgiving Getaway

Spending Thanksgiving in Sedona, Arizona, is the perfect way to enjoy a secluded retreat from the big city and enjoy quality time with family and friends. The weather cooperates, the trails stay open, the restaurants handle dinner if you'd rather not cook, and the landscape does all the decorating for you.

Plan the perfect Thanksgiving holiday this year; book a Sedona Premier vacation rental with space for the whole family to celebrate.