Obviously, there is turkey to be had this weekend… but once you’ve stuffed yourself to the gills with thanks, go out and play!

Nov 25

#OptOutside

Back Friday can definitely be enticing, what with all those deals and Christmas just around the corner. But this year, instead of bargain hunting all day, Oregon State Parks and REI are inviting you to do something different and opt outside. Bypass the malls and head to one of four state parks to celebrate life in the great outdoors! Oregon State Parks will be hosting special events from 10 to 2 pm at Stub Stewart, Tryon Creek, Champoeg and Silver Falls State Parks. Fill the out the entry form for a chance at winning some sweet hiking and camping gear! Oregon State Parks will also waive all park admission fees for the day. Free, oregonstateparksfoundation.org

Nov 25

Macy’s Holiday Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting

Oh, the Macy’s Parade…such a classic! Head downtown this weekend for a hustly-bustly, warm and fuzzy holiday scene. The Macy’s Parade will feature 25 larger-than-life floats, a marching band, Santa and the whole gang, and hundreds of costumed holiday characters. And while you’re downtown, you can mosey on over to the dazzling Christmas Tree Lighting in Pioneer Square. This is a Friday night to put even the grouchiest of Grinches in good cheer! Free, macys.com

Nov 25-27

America’s Largest Christmas Bazaar

This winter wonderland event is a long-standing Oregon tradition, and with good reason. The Christmas Bazaar is a large-scale yet still carefully curated event that brings you a truly unique and enjoyable holiday shopping experience. With just four employees at the heart of the operation, you’re guaranteed that each item for the show is hand-selected and of the top-most quality. From Artisan’s Alley, where you will find juried craftors and their impressive creations, to the commercial half of the show featuring the trendiest new holiday items, to Santa’s Village and the man himself, you’re guaranteed a smile and something irresistible to take home. $3-7, kids under 12 free, expochristmasbazaar.com

Nov 25-27

The Enchanted Toyshop

The Portland Ballet is bringing you a little holiday magic this Thanksgiving weekend. Don’t miss the well-loved story of The Enchanted Toyshop by John Clifford, a signature seasonal showpiece for The Portland Ballet. Two children get accidentally locked in a toyshop overnight and Pinocchio leads a magical parade of enchanted toys that come to life to entertain the children. And that’s just the beginning! Audience members will also be treated to a sound track performed by the PSU Orchestra and the world premier of Gift Box by Anne Mueller. $5-35, theportlandballet.org

Nov 26

La Fete du Macaron

The holidays are a great excuse to indulge our sweeter sides, and Pix Patisserie has the perfect palate cleanser after all that turkey. This weekend, celebrate the oh-so-delightful traditional French macaron at La Fete du Macaron. Thirty different colorful little treats will fill the cases of Pix Patisserie, all their own unique flavor. Don’t be shy, try as many as you like…and then try the Macaronut, a deep fried macaron! Mon dieu! Enter your winning idea for a flavor to win a $20 gift certificate and have your flavor made at Pix Patisserie. And don’t miss the cupcake stomp: stomp on a cupcake to win a free macaron! Free, macarons $2.25 ea., pixpatisserie.com