Thanksgiving in Telluride: 6 Tips from Locals

The leaves are changing color, and the cold, western wind is moving into town, and that means it is a good idea to plan your Telluride Thanksgiving now. No matter your holiday celebration style- from relaxing and rejuvenating to exciting and entertaining, Telluride has got you covered. Here are some tried and true tips from locals on how to best experience Thanksgiving in Telluride: Support Ski & Snowboard Club Ski on Donation Day Wednesday at the Telluride Ski Resort, the day before Thanksgiving, to support a good cause and get into the resort the day before the official opening day. “Everyone who buys a ticket, that money goes directly into the financial assistance fund. So essentially, everyone who goes skiing will help a child”, said TSSC executive director Justin Chandler. Beyond the local support, there is just no better way to experience Telluride than to ski their world class resort. Ride the free gondola that travels to and from Mountain Village, Telluride’s sister city, for a unique mountain-living experience. Play Turkey Bingo Seats go fast at the Elks Lodge! Get there early on Thursday or Friday (or both nights) and be prepared for the low cash entry fee- only $1 for kids and adults. Play bingo for a chance to win a turkey for your feast, and sleep well later knowing that all proceeds benefit local charities. Take a Hike Break free from life with walls and get into some outdoor activities that will free your mind and boost the dopamine. One local so eloquently advised for visitors to “go for a hike. Anywhere. It doesn’t matter,” because there is beauty in any direction. Just within a short walk or drive there are multiple trails to trek and sites to see. Check out the online trail map for more info on hiking and other mountain-related recreation. Relax in Hot Springs Only a short drive from town, these hot springs are a must-do for any visitor to Telluride. Mountain Lodge recommends you “sit back and experience Colorado's most inspiring mountain scenery while you bask in the sunshine and soothe sore muscles after a day of activity.” The hot springs, mineral pools, swimming pools, spa treatments, massages, camping, lodging, and dining will set your mind and body at ease. There are even kid-friendly and no-kids-allowed venues that aim to please a variety of visitors’ needs. Reservations are required, so plan ahead. Patronize a Magic Show Staving off the winter blues sometimes calls for breaking out and getting into some fun and excitement. Forbes magazine calls the magic of Ty Gallenbeck “a Celebrated Magician.” The

Mind Blown Telluride show at The Peaks Resort & Spa is recommended for ages 12 and up, and they request that you “dress to impress” to help create “a magical evening.” Tickets are limited and available online ranging from $50-$75 for shows starting on Saturday, 11/27. Fully experience the magic of this small mountain town while supporting a local artist. Eat Turkey & Fixins If you won that turkey on Bingo night, you’ll have one less thing to worry about. But if not, check out one of the local grocery stores; Clark’s Market, The Market at Telluride, Over the Moon Fine Foods, or The Village Market are sure to have what you need to create a memorable feast. Ask the grocer for favorite recipes, like green bean casserole or pumpkin cheesecake jars, which are sure to be crowd pleasers. If dining at home isn’t for you, look up some local restaurants that are still open for the holiday, such as The Floradora Saloon, Telluride’s original restaurant, known for hearty comfort food and a laid-back atmosphere. Baked in Telluride is also a great spot with a variety of choices that run the gamut, with a bakery, casual dining, and pizzeria kitchen in historic downtown. Many residents also say that Thanksgiving is a great time, due to the off-season and smaller crowds, to walk Main Street and try the local shops and eateries for some spontaneous holiday-spirited fun! Locals stressed, above all, to properly tip your servers and be kind to the service staff: “There are so few of them and it’s been a hard year. A little patience and kindness goes a long way.” The weather may be cold this holiday season, but the warmth of this little town’s heart will welcome you like a neighbor. There’s always good tidings to be found in Telluride.