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Thanksgiving in Miami 2025: Meaning, Traditions & Fun Things to Do on the Water

Thanksgiving is one of the most meaningful holidays in the United States — a day to express gratitude, enjoy time with family and friends, and share a meal together. But Thanksgiving is not only about the traditional turkey dinner. For many, it has become a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the things that bring joy, connection, and warmth into our lives.

And if you’re spending Thanksgiving in Miami, you’re in for something truly special. With sunny skies, warm ocean breezes, festival lights, and stunning views over Biscayne Bay, Miami transforms Thanksgiving into a vibrant and joyful experience full of unique activities you won’t find anywhere else.

At Miami Aqua Tours, we believe that the best way to celebrate is on the water — surrounded by music, skyline views, and the people you love.


The Meaning of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving originated as a harvest celebration, a day to give thanks for abundance and community. Today, it is a moment to:

  • Appreciate the people who support us

  • Slow down and reconnect

  • Celebrate togetherness

  • Honor traditions (old and new!)

In Miami, Thanksgiving combines cultural diversity, music, food, ocean, and joy — making it a celebration of both gratitude and life.


Why Celebrate Thanksgiving in Miami?

While other cities get cold during November, Miami stays:

  • Warm 🌴

  • Sunny ☀️

  • Full of outdoor life 🌊

This allows you to experience Thanksgiving in an open-air, tropical, and festive way, from beachfront gatherings to sunset bay cruises.

Miami also becomes a hub for:

  • Holiday markets and outdoor events

  • Art, music, and food festivals

  • Family-friendly waterfront activities

  • Nightlife and special seasonal parties


Top Things To Do in Miami During Thanksgiving Weekend

1. Take a Biscayne Bay Sightseeing Cruise

There’s no better way to enjoy Miami than from the water. A sightseeing cruise lets you:

  • See the Miami skyline at golden hour

  • Cruise past celebrity mansions at Star Island

  • Feel the ocean breeze

  • Take amazing photos with family and friends

📍 Departs from Bayside Marketplace
🕒 Day and evening departures available

2. Enjoy a Dinner Cruise or Sunset Champagne Cruise

Turn Thanksgiving into an unforgettable moment by celebrating on deck with:

  • Music

  • Sparkling drinks

  • Beautiful views of Miami at sunset

  • A vibrant but relaxed holiday atmosphere

Perfect for couples, families, and friend groups.

3. Hop Aboard the Pirate Ship “El Loro” 🏴‍☠️

Fun, music, dancing, and unbeatable views — El Loro is Miami’s most famous pirate-themed party boat.
This is a unique way to celebrate Thanksgiving weekend with:

  • Live DJ

  • Open-air dance deck

  • Skyline night views

  • Fun, casual, and unforgettable.

4. Explore Bayside Marketplace Before Your Cruise

Surrounded by the marina, Bayside is a great place to:

  • Shop for souvenirs

  • Enjoy live music

  • Grab a drink by the waterfront

  • Take family photos at sunset

And it’s steps from our boarding docks.

5. Walk Ocean Drive & South Beach

After your cruise, continue the celebration with:

  • Beach walks

  • Outdoor dining

  • Lively holiday nightlife

Thanksgiving weekend in Miami always feels like a celebration of joy, sunshine, and community.


Book Your Thanksgiving Cruise with Miami Aqua Tours

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a special someone, celebrating Thanksgiving in Miami is more magical on the water.

🎟️ Reserve your spot early — holiday weekend cruises sell out quickly.

👉 Book now at: miamiaquatours.com
📍 Location: Bayside Marketplace, Downtown Miami
Tours: Sightseeing Cruise | Sunset Champagne Cruise | Pirate Ship “El Loro”


Thanksgiving in Miami is a Celebration of Gratitude + Joy

This year, say thanks with:

  • Music 🎶

  • Ocean breeze 🌊

  • Sunshine 🌴

  • And people you love 💛

We’ll see you on board.
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Miami Aqua Tours! 🦃⚓✨

Sign reading 'Thankful Grateful Blessed' with pumpkins and apples around it.

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