Celebrate the Season: 14 Thanksgiving Events in Essex County, New Jersey (2025 Guide)

As the crisp November air settles in and golden leaves scatter across sidewalks, a familiar sense of warmth fills the community. Thanksgiving in Essex County isn’t just about the feast; it’s about gratitude, togetherness, and sharing with others. From food drives and giveaways to creative workshops and festive galas, this year’s local celebrations offer countless ways to give thanks and spread joy. Here’s your guide to the most heartwarming Thanksgiving events happening across Essex County in 2025.

1. Irvington Thanksgiving Giveaway

Location: 346 16th Avenue, Irvington, NJ 07111
Date: Registration: Nov 1–15 | Event: Nov 21, 2025
Time: 12 PM to 2 PM
Phone: 973-416-0916
More info: Event Page

Registration Link: eventbrite.com/e/thanksgiving-turkey-give-a-way-tickets

Details: 
• Registration and NJ ID required
• One bag per household

The spirit of sharing continues in Irvington, where residents can register for a Thanksgiving giveaway. This thoughtful event ensures that every household can enjoy a holiday meal together. It’s organized with care and attention to fairness. Volunteers make the process smooth so families can easily participate. Each bag distributed is packed with essential holiday items. The gratitude shared between organizers and residents makes it truly special.

2. The Montclair Bikery’s 13th Annual Turkey Ride

Location: 148 Valley Road, Montclair, NJ
Date: November 2, 2025
Time: Gather at 9 AM, ride begins at 10 AM
More info: Turkey Ride Details 

Details: 
• Riders purchase and deliver turkeys to the Human Needs Food Pantry

This event combines fitness and goodwill as local cyclists embark on a unique mission, delivering frozen turkeys by bike. It’s an inspiring blend of community spirit, health, and compassion on wheels. Riders pedal through town with smiles, knowing each turkey helps a family in need. It’s a tradition that brings joy to both givers and receivers. The first stop is Kings Supermarket, 650 Valley Road, where riders purchase frozen turkeys before delivering them by bike and van to the Human Needs Food Pantry at 9 Label Street. The ride also builds camaraderie among participants who share a passion for both cycling and helping others. Each year, the crowd grows, turning it into one of Montclair’s most anticipated holiday events.

3. Livingston Public Library: Take Home Craft Thanksgiving

Location: 10 Robert Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ 07039
Date: November 10–12, 2025
Time: All Day
Phone: (973) 992-4600
More info: Library Calendar
Details:
• Pick up Thanksgiving crafts for kids aged 3 and up

This family-friendly activity lets children explore their creativity through festive crafts. It’s a wonderful way for parents and kids to bond and make keepsakes that celebrate gratitude. The craft kits come with colorful materials and easy instructions. Each creation becomes a small piece of Thanksgiving joy to display at home. Kids learn about thankfulness and creativity in a fun, hands-on way. The event encourages families to slow down and spend quality time together.

4. Friends Trivia: The One with the Thanksgiving Episodes

Location: 690 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042
Date: November 12, 2025
Time: 7 PM to 8:30 PM EST
More info: Eventbrite Page 

For reservations, visit: https://TheSplendidFriends.Eventbrite.com

To secure a table, reserve on OpenTable: https://tinyurl.com/2r4mxmsc

Details:
• Free event, reservation required
• Must be 21+

A fun twist on the season, this trivia night celebrates everyone’s favorite sitcom and its iconic Thanksgiving episodes. Gather your friends for laughter, nostalgia, and friendly competition. It’s a lighthearted event perfect for winding down before the holiday rush. Themed drinks and prizes add to the excitement. Expect lots of laughter, familiar quotes, and maybe even a few surprises. It’s the perfect night out for fans to connect and relive classic moments together.

5. Livingston Public Library: Thanksgiving Table

Location: 10 Robert Harp Dr, Livingston, NJ 07039
Date: November 13, 2025
Time: 7 PM to 8 PM
More info: Library Event
Details:
• Learn hosting tips, recipes, and decor ideas

This event blends culinary inspiration with heartfelt conversation. Guests can exchange tips, share stories, and learn how to create memorable Thanksgiving gatherings at home. Homemade dishes, conversations filled with gratitude, and beautiful tablescapes make Thanksgiving a cherished celebration. The session highlights the joy of sharing food and traditions. It’s an opportunity for attendees to gain fresh ideas for hosting stress-free celebrations. The interactive discussion allows people to connect over shared experiences. Everyone leaves inspired to make their Thanksgiving table both beautiful and meaningful.

6. Turkey Carving Demo

Location: 59 South Orange Ave, South Orange, NJ 07079
Date: November 15, 2025
Time: 11 AM & 12:30 PM
More info: Kitchen a la Mode 

Details:
• Learn expert carving techniques and presentation tips

Perfect your Thanksgiving feast skills with this hands-on demo. From mastering your carving knife to serving a picture-perfect turkey, this workshop ensures your table looks and tastes its best. Participants leave with confidence and new culinary tricks to impress their guests. The event also offers practical advice on tool maintenance and safe handling. Instructors are patient, engaging, and eager to share their passion for cooking. It’s the perfect way to blend creativity and skill before Thanksgiving arrives.

7. Montclair YMCA Thanksgiving Food Drive

Location: 25 Park Street, Montclair, NJ 07042
Date: November 17, 2025
Time: All Day
Phone: 973-744-3400
More info: Montclair YMCA Event 

Details:
• Collecting food donations for the Human Needs Food Pantry
• Drop-off at Park Street or Geyer Family locations

A simple act of giving can make a big difference. The YMCA’s annual food drive encourages residents to contribute essential Thanksgiving ingredients for families in need. Every can, box, or crust donated becomes part of someone’s cherished holiday meal. The event also fosters awareness about food insecurity in local neighborhoods. Many families depend on these collections to celebrate their holiday with dignity and joy. It’s a heartening initiative that shows how compassion and community service go hand in hand.

8. The Valerie Fund Thanksgiving Ball Gala

Location: 1016 Broad St, Newark, NJ, 07102
Date: November 22, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
More info: Event Link 

Details:
• Free turkey giveaway while supplies last
• Designed to thank the community and spread holiday cheer

This event brings people together in the true spirit of giving. Families can stop by and pick up a Thanksgiving turkey at no cost, ensuring everyone can enjoy a special holiday meal. It’s a beautiful reminder that generosity is one of the purest forms of celebration. Many local volunteers and organizations come together to make this event successful. You’ll see smiling faces, helping hands, and neighbors greeting each other with warmth. It’s an event where gratitude and community spirit shine brighter than ever.

11. Bloomfield Annual Thanksgiving Giveaway

Location: 1 Municipal Plaza, Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Date: November 23, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM (Rain or Shine)
Phone: (973) 680-4017
More info: Bloomfield Pulse Event 

Register here: tinyurl.com/BloomTurkey 

Details:
• Free turkeys for qualifying residents
• Registration required, Limited spots only

Bloomfield’s annual giveaway ensures local families can gather around for a hearty meal. This event highlights the township’s commitment to care and community, even amidst chilly November mornings. Volunteers work tirelessly to organize and distribute each turkey efficiently. The atmosphere is filled with gratitude and excitement as residents line up to participate. For many, it marks the beginning of the holiday season and is a reminder of community support. Each smiling face and thankful gesture adds warmth to the day.

12. Pre-Thanksgiving Gobble, Gobble Hike!

Location: Locust Grove Parking Lot, Millburn, NJ 07041
Date: November 23, 2025
Time: 10:15 AM to 1:45 PM
More info: Eventbrite Hike
Details:

• Children who can walk the distance are welcome to join a parent or guardian. Please note that strollers, bicycles, and dogs are not allowed.

• The hike covers about 5 to 6 miles, depending on weather and trail conditions.