Updated: March 12, 2026
Sedona is calling for 2026 Thanksgiving. Feast on gourmet canyon buffets, join the energetic Turkey Trot 5K, and hear soulful live music under desert stars. Also volunteer with locals or roast a turkey in a private rental. This guide covers the best ways to celebrate among the crimson cliffs.
With exquisite natural views and a temperate climate year-round, Sedona makes for a perfect escape during all seasons. You’ll rarely, if ever, have to worry about inclement weather ruining your plans; even in the dead of November, the high-desert climate offers average November highs of 63°F, allowing for outdoor adventure with just a light layer.
If you’re planning the perfect 2026 Thanksgiving getaway, the city’s blend of spiritual energy, charitable community spirit, and world-class dining offers something for everyone.
Contents
- A Thanksgiving Feast at Enchantment Resort
- 17th Annual Sedona Turkey Trot 5K
- Music & Spirit: Tyler Carson’s “Fiddler on the Rock”
- Giving Back with St. Vincent de Paul
- Latin Jazz with Eric Miller
- Stay in and Cook Your Thanksgiving Feast
- Secure Your Sedona Thanksgiving Getaway
A Thanksgiving Feast at Enchantment Resort
While several local favorites offer holiday menus, the crown jewel of the season is the Thanksgiving Buffet at Enchantment Resort. Hosted in their grand Anasazi Ballroom, this feast pairs high-end culinary artistry with unmatched views of Boynton Canyon.
The buffet typically runs from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, with 2025 pricing at $126 per person (inclusive of gratuity). Expect a massive spread featuring herb-roasted Diestel Turkey, prime rib, and a chilled seafood bar. For a more intimate experience, their signature restaurant, Che Ah Chi, typically offers a sophisticated four-course prix fixe menu. Reservations are essential and often fill up months in advance, so be sure to book your table by early autumn.
17th Annual Sedona Turkey Trot 5K
Kick off your holiday morning with a burst of energy at the 17th Annual Sedona Turkey Trot. This local tradition has grown significantly, offering runners a chance to race against the majestic backdrop of the Red Rocks. The race starts and finishes at Posse Grounds Park.
The 5K route takes you through open scenic roads; while traffic is light on Thanksgiving morning, the community atmosphere is electric. Registration for 2026 opens in the summer with tiers typically ranging from $30 to $40 for the 5K, and proceeds benefit local youth programs. It’s the perfect way to “earn” that extra slice of pumpkin pie later in the day.
Music & Spirit: Tyler Carson’s “Fiddler on the Rock”
For a unique cultural experience, look for world-renowned violinist and composer Tyler Carson. His “Fiddler on the Rock” performances have become a Sedona staple. By 2026, these performances have shifted from casual street pop-ups to more curated experiences at venues like the Sedona Heritage Museum or the Mary D. Fisher Theatre.
Carson’s style—often described as a “One-Man Symphony”—uses live looping to create a wall of sound that feels both ancient and modern. Check the local arts calendar for special Thanksgiving week sunset performances, which provide a soulful soundtrack to the holiday.
Giving Back with St. Vincent de Paul
If the holiday has you feeling charitable, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul continues its vital work in the Verde Valley. Throughout November 2026, they will be hosting their “Turkey Tuesday” drives and organizing holiday food boxes for local families. Visitors are always welcome to contribute through donations or by volunteering at the food bank to ensure every member of the community enjoys a warm holiday meal.
Latin Jazz with Eric Miller
If you’re looking for evening entertainment after your feast, keep an eye out for Eric Miller. A local legend known for his masterful Latin Jazz and bossa nova style, Miller frequently performs at The Shops at Pinon Pointe (adjacent to the Hyatt Residence Club) or upscale venues like Shorebird Sedona and the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock. His music—a fusion of soft samba and American jazz—is the perfect “nightcap” to a busy Thanksgiving day. While many venues don’t charge a cover, dinner or lounge reservations are highly recommended to secure a seat near the music.
Stay in and Cook Your Thanksgiving Feast
With no shortage of things to do, you could spend the entire day exploring, but there is also something special about the peace and quiet of a Sedona canyon. Our 2026 rental collection features kitchens that are fully furnished and chef-ready, equipped with everything you need to roast a turkey and prepare all the trimmings. Enjoy a private meal on your deck as the sun sets over the crimson cliffs.
Secure Your Sedona Thanksgiving Getaway
Regardless of how busy you plan on being during your vacation, we’ve got the perfect rental for you to enjoy. From cabins with private hot tubs to modern villas with panoramic views, your 2026 holiday starts here. Reserve your stay with us now.
Looking for coastal charm after the red rocks? Great Ocean Condos in New Smyrna Beach offers a serene seaside escape so you can enjoy stunning Atlantic views and sandy shores for your next trip. Book your Florida getaway today to experience ultimate beachside relaxation.
