Thanksgiving weekend in Avalon promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a full lineup of events and so many great free activities for the entire family to enjoy. Avalon transforms into a holiday extravaganza featuring a Christmas-tree auction, visits from Santa, crafts, iceless ice skating, carnival activities, festive refreshments and deep discounts at many businesses.

The fun begins Wednesday, Nov. 25, when the Festival of Trees opens at The Whitebrier, 260 20th St. The event, sponsored by the 7 Mile Business Community Association, showcases a beautiful display of trees and wreaths, decorated by local businesses. The trees and wreaths are available for auction beginning at 5 p.m. Wednesday. The bidding resumes Friday, Nov. 27, from noon to 8 p.m. Winners will be notified and can take home their decorated tree or wreath that night.

The morning after Thanksgiving Day, join the Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children for its 4th annual Turkey Trot 5K run and 1.5-mile walk on Nov. 27. Whether you choose to run or walk, you’ll burn those extra calories consumed from your Thanksgiving feast while supporting a great cause. The run/walk will begin at 10 a.m. (packet pickup starts at 8 a.m. at Avalon Community Hall) and will take the entrants on a scenic route through Avalon. Prizes will be awarded to the top three men and women overall in the 5K run, the top three finishers in each age group, and the Best Dressed Team.

Following the Turkey Trot, Festive Friday begins at 11 a.m. with the return of the popular iceless ice-skating rink on 21st and Dune Drive, plus a long list of activities throughout the day featuring children’s characters, face painters, bounce houses, crafts and so much more. Local businesses are open for holiday shopping featuring significant discounts and hospitality. Activities are scheduled throughout the day, all leading up to the arrival of Santa Claus at 5 p.m. as he helps Mayor Martin Pagliughi light the Christmas tree at Veterans Plaza.

Snowfest Saturday returns on Nov. 28, and this year it will be held in downtown Avalon. Dune Drive will transform into a winter carnival with free family fun for all ages. It is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will include carnival games, rides, bounce houses and more. Santa will be at Veterans Plaza posing for photos. Plus, as an added bonus, the iceless ice-skating rink will be open for everyone to enjoy an extra day of ice skating.

2015 Festival of the Trees

2015 Festive Friday

2015 Snowfest Saturday