Family-Friendly Things to Do Over Thanksgiving Weekend in Winter Haven and Central Florida

Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to plan a family outing, explore Central Florida and start celebrating the holiday season. Families staying in Winter Haven, Haines City, Lakeland, Davenport, Four Corners and Lake Wales areas can choose from theme park adventures, seasonal celebrations, outdoor activities and local attractions.

One of the biggest seasonal highlights is LEGOLAND® Florida Resort in Winter Haven, where families can enjoy rides, LEGO® building activities and interactive attractions alongside Christmas Bricktacular on select dates. Located next door, PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida offers a separate theme park experience designed around Peppa and her friends, with family rides and play areas for younger children.

Thanksgiving Day falls on November 26 in 2026, making Friday, November 27, through Sunday, November 29, a popular long weekend for family activities. Whether you live nearby, are visiting relatives or are staying in a Central Florida vacation rental, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your time together.

Here are family-friendly things to do over Thanksgiving weekend, with ideas for each of the surrounding communities.

1. Celebrate the Holidays at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

Best for: Families with children who love LEGO® building, rides and hands-on activities.

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is a natural starting point for a Thanksgiving weekend itinerary in Winter Haven. The Theme Park combines rides, interactive attractions, LEGO models and creative play, giving families a full day of activities to enjoy together.

Thanksgiving weekend also falls at the start of the Christmas season at the Resort. LEGOLAND® Christmas Bricktacular takes place on select dates from November 21, 2026, through January 3, 2027, bringing seasonal entertainment and holiday displays to the Theme Park.

Families planning a visit over Thanksgiving weekend can look at the November 27, 28 and 29 event dates when organizing their itinerary. Check the operating calendar for November 26, Thanksgiving Day, separately.

What to Experience at LEGOLAND® Christmas Bricktacular

Christmas Bricktacular adds festive activities to the LEGOLAND Florida experience, with seasonal displays, character experiences, entertainment and opportunities to build together.

Highlights of the 2026 celebration include:

• A 30-foot LEGO® Christmas Tree: See a towering holiday display built with LEGO bricks.

• LEGO® Santa and festive characters: Add a seasonal character experience and holiday photo opportunities to your visit.

• A festive drone show: Watch a nighttime holiday show featuring LEGO Santa on select dates.

• A new Rap Battle Show: Enjoy a new addition to the Resort's holiday entertainment lineup.

• An interactive festive light trail: Follow holiday lights and enjoy LEGO brick-building activities.

• LEGO® building activities and holiday displays: Find creative ways for the family to participate in the celebration.

• Seasonal food and drinks: Look for limited-time holiday treats during your visit.

Christmas Bricktacular is included with general Theme Park admission on event dates, so a separate Christmas event ticket is not required. Annual Passholders should check their pass benefits, applicable blockout dates and the event calendar.

Because Thanksgiving weekend is a popular time for family outings, plan your visit around the operating calendar and check show schedules before arriving. Some entertainment operates only on selected dates.

Why visit over Thanksgiving weekend? Families can enjoy the Theme Park's regular attractions while getting an early start on holiday traditions. It is an option for local residents and visiting relatives who want to turn a day out into a seasonal family experience.

2. Visit PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida With Younger Children

Best for: Toddlers, preschoolers and families looking for play and rides suited to younger guests.

Traveling with little ones? Add PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida to your Central Florida plans. Located in Winter Haven next to LEGOLAND Florida Resort, this separate theme park is designed around the popular Peppa Pig world and offers rides, interactive play and colorful settings inspired by the series.

For families with preschool-age children, it can be a good alternative to a day focused on larger theme park attractions. Children can explore at their own pace, enjoy family rides and take breaks for play.

Things to Do at PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida

Experiences include:

• Daddy Pig's Roller Coaster: A family coaster for an introduction to theme park thrills.

• Peppa's Balloon Ride: Take to the air on a Peppa-themed family attraction.

• Grandad Dog's Pirate Boat Ride: Enjoy a themed boat adventure together.

• Grampy Rabbit's Dinosaur Adventure: Explore a dinosaur-themed ride.

• Muddy Puddles Splash Pad: Make time for water play when conditions and operating schedules allow.

• Rebecca Rabbit's Playground and George's Fort: Let younger guests enjoy play spaces between rides.

• Peppa-themed play and entertainment: Explore the park's family-friendly attractions and settings.

Check height requirements, operating information and ticket options before your visit. Florida weather can also affect outdoor water-play plans, so bring suitable clothing if you expect to use the splash pad.

Can You Visit LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida in One Trip?

Yes. Both parks are located next to one another in Winter Haven, making it convenient to plan a multi-day family getaway around both experiences.

Families with toddlers and preschoolers may prefer to dedicate a day to PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida. Families with older children who want more rides and LEGO activities can plan a separate day at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. A longer stay makes it easier to enjoy both without rushing through the attractions.

Admission requirements differ by park and ticket type, so review available multi-park options before purchasing.

3. Explore Winter Haven's Holiday Events and Outdoor Activities

Best for: Families looking for holiday lights, downtown activities and a break between theme park visits.

Winter Haven offers more to explore than its theme parks. Families can spend part of Thanksgiving weekend enjoying LEGOLAND Florida Resort, then head into town for seasonal activities and a relaxed evening together.

See Starlight Nights in Downtown Winter Haven

Winter Haven's downtown holiday season gets underway with Starlight Nights, scheduled from November 26, 2026, through January 7, 2027. The seasonal event gives families another reason to explore downtown after Thanksgiving, with holiday displays and a festive atmosphere.

If you plan to visit on Thanksgiving Day, check the latest event information for any special holiday arrangements. For families visiting later in the weekend, Starlight Nights can be an additional seasonal activity after a day of exploring the area.

Shop Small on November 28

Families visiting on Saturday, November 28, can also look for Small Shop Saturday in downtown Winter Haven. Browse local businesses, discover gifts and make a stop for refreshments while exploring the area.

It can be a relaxed way to spend part of the day, particularly if you are planning several nights in Central Florida and want to balance theme park visits with local activities.

Enjoy Time Outdoors

If you want a quieter activity between theme park days, consider visiting a local public park. Winter Haven's lakes, green spaces and walking areas offer opportunities to enjoy the Florida weather and spend time outside.

For families spending several days in the area, a mix of theme park attractions, downtown holiday activities and outdoor time can make the long weekend feel varied without overloading the itinerary.

Check local event details and holiday operating hours before traveling, since Thanksgiving schedules may differ from regular weekly hours.

4. Plan a Family Outing From Haines City

Best for: Families staying in Haines City who want a mix of local recreation and major attractions.

Haines City is a convenient starting point for families exploring Central Florida over Thanksgiving weekend. A trip to nearby Winter Haven can include LEGO adventures at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, seasonal activities during Christmas Bricktacular and preschool-friendly rides at PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida.

Spend Time at Lake Eva Park

Lake Eva Park is a community recreation area where families can spend time outdoors. Depending on your children's ages and interests, a park visit can provide a change of pace between longer outings.

Families can check the city's calendar for holiday-weekend programming or community events announced closer to Thanksgiving. The Lake Eva Aquatic Center has a seasonal schedule, so confirm availability before including swimming in your plans.

Plan a Day Trip to Winter Haven

For a bigger family outing, make LEGOLAND Florida Resort the main event. Children can enjoy rides, creative LEGO activities and themed attractions, while Christmas Bricktacular brings festive displays and seasonal entertainment to select dates.

Families traveling with preschoolers can also consider PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida. Its location beside LEGOLAND Florida Resort makes it possible to plan a multi-day trip around both parks.

For a balanced long weekend, choose one main attraction per day and leave time for meals, breaks and travel. This can be especially helpful for families visiting with children who still need naps or an earlier bedtime.

5. Add Outdoor and Cultural Activities in Lakeland

Best for: Families who want nature, playgrounds and indoor activities alongside theme park visits.

Lakeland offers several options for families who want to mix a theme park day with time outdoors or a cultural outing.

Explore Bonnet Springs Park

Bonnet Springs Park is a 168-acre urban nature park with scenic trails, gardens, playgrounds and spaces for outdoor discovery. Admission to the park is free, making it a useful option for families looking for a lower-cost activity during their Thanksgiving stay.

Children can enjoy time at the playgrounds while adults explore the landscaped grounds and walking paths. The park also has visitor facilities and places to stop for refreshments.

Check the park's holiday operating hours before heading out, particularly on Thanksgiving Day.

Visit the Florida Children's Museum

Families looking for an indoor activity can consider the Florida Children's Museum in Lakeland. Hands-on exhibits and interactive play offer a different kind of outing from a theme park, particularly for children who enjoy exploring, making things and learning through play.

Confirm the museum's holiday schedule before planning a visit, as Thanksgiving hours may differ from regular opening times.

Explore Downtown Lakeland

Downtown Lakeland is another option for exploring local shops, dining and public spaces. Families can make time for a casual meal or a walk around downtown before returning to their accommodation.

Combine Lakeland With a Winter Haven Theme Park Day

For families who want a larger attraction experience, Winter Haven is a natural addition to a Lakeland itinerary. LEGOLAND Florida Resort offers rides, LEGO building and interactive attractions, while Christmas Bricktacular adds seasonal entertainment on select dates.

PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida is another nearby choice for families with toddlers and preschoolers. Consider choosing one main attraction per day, with an outdoor or downtown activity on another day, to keep the holiday weekend manageable.

6. Find Family Activities Near Davenport and Four Corners

Best for: Families staying in vacation rentals around Davenport, Four Corners and nearby Central Florida communities.

Davenport and Four Corners are popular bases for families visiting Central Florida, especially those staying in vacation rentals. Thanksgiving weekend is a good opportunity to balance time at your accommodation with activities for children and seasonal outings.

Explore Local Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Families can look for neighborhood parks, playgrounds and walking paths near their accommodation. These are useful options for a low-key morning or afternoon between longer outings.

Because Four Corners spans a wider area across Central Florida, check the address and driving time for each activity rather than assuming that every attraction is close by.

Make a Day Trip to LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

Winter Haven is a strong choice for a planned family day trip. At LEGOLAND Florida Resort, children can enjoy rides, creative LEGO activities and themed attractions. Christmas Bricktacular brings festive displays and seasonal entertainment to select dates, including November 27–29, 2026.

Families traveling with younger children can also visit PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida, located next to LEGOLAND Florida Resort. Its family rides and themed play areas provide a different experience for toddlers and preschoolers.

Look for Local Holiday Markets and Community Events

Community events and seasonal markets can be a nice addition to a vacation-rental stay. Check the latest event calendars for Davenport and the surrounding area for Thanksgiving-weekend activities, since dates and schedules may be announced closer to the holiday.

If you are staying several nights, consider planning a theme park visit on one day and leaving another day for local activities, shopping or relaxing with family.

7. Discover Nature and Seasonal Events Near Lake Wales

Best for: Families who enjoy gardens, outdoor exploration and a quieter change of pace.

Lake Wales offers a different kind of family outing for visitors who want to explore Central Florida beyond theme parks.

Explore Bok Tower Gardens

Bok Tower Gardens is a notable Lake Wales destination, with landscaped gardens and a setting that invites families to slow down and explore nature.

Bok Tower Gardens is scheduled to be closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2026. If you are visiting over the long weekend, check its calendar for Friday, November 27, or Saturday, November 28, instead.

On November 28, the Gardens' calendar lists RUNA Live on the Oval: “Hark! An Irish Christmas,” from 6 to 8 p.m. This seasonal music event may appeal to families looking for an evening activity. Consider the event timing if you are visiting with younger children, and confirm admission requirements before attending.

Combine Lake Wales With a Winter Haven Visit

If your family wants both nature and theme park entertainment, consider planning separate outings to Lake Wales and Winter Haven.

LEGOLAND Florida Resort offers rides and LEGO adventures, with Christmas Bricktacular adding seasonal experiences on select dates. PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida is another option for families with preschoolers.

A split itinerary gives your family time to enjoy different sides of Central Florida without trying to fit too many activities into one day.

Thanksgiving Weekend Activities at a Glance

Use this guide to compare family-friendly activities across Winter Haven and nearby communities.

Event schedules, admission requirements and holiday hours can change. Confirm the details for your chosen date before traveling.

Tips for Planning Thanksgiving Weekend With Kids

A little planning can make a holiday weekend more enjoyable, particularly when you are traveling with toddlers or preschoolers.

Choose Your Main Attraction in Advance

Decide which park or activity is the priority for each day. If you want to experience Christmas Bricktacular, plan around its select-date schedule. If you are visiting with younger children, consider how much time they are likely to enjoy at PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida before needing a rest.

Check Holiday Hours and Event Schedules

Thanksgiving weekend includes different operating schedules and seasonal events. Confirm park hours, available attractions and entertainment times before you travel. Christmas Bricktacular is scheduled for November 27–29 over Thanksgiving weekend in 2026, but do not assume the same schedule applies on Thanksgiving Day.

Allow Time for Meals and Breaks

Build in time for snacks, meals, water breaks and rest. A flexible itinerary is often more comfortable for families than trying to fit too many activities into one day.

Dress for Florida's Weather

Late November can bring a mix of warm afternoons and cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes and layers can help, particularly if you plan to stay for evening entertainment. Bring swimwear and a change of clothes if you intend to use the PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida splash pad and conditions permit.

Check Tickets Before You Go

Compare admission options for your chosen park or parks before purchasing. If you are planning to visit both LEGOLAND Florida Resort and PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida, review the available ticket products to find an option that matches your itinerary. Annual Passholders should also check access and blockout dates.

Make Thanksgiving Weekend a Family Adventure

Thanksgiving weekend is a chance to spend time together, welcome the start of the holiday season and make new family traditions. For families in Winter Haven, Haines City, Lakeland, Davenport, Four Corners and Lake Wales, LEGOLAND Florida Resort offers a full day of LEGO adventures, with Christmas Bricktacular adding festive fun on select dates.

Families with younger children can also plan a visit to PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida, next door, for rides and play inspired by Peppa and her friends.

Add a downtown outing in Winter Haven, an outdoor adventure at Bonnet Springs Park or a visit to Bok Tower Gardens to create an itinerary that fits your family's interests.

Check the calendar, choose the experiences that fit your family and plan a Thanksgiving weekend filled with play, creativity and holiday memories in Central Florida.