If you’re planning a Thanksgiving getaway this year, Killington is the perfect place to spend the holiday. Trade the hustle and bustle of the city for mountain views, cozy fireplaces, the first turns of the season, and maybe a group Turkey Trot run.
After a 1-year hiatus, the Audi FIS Ski World Cup returns to Killington November 27-29, 2026, giving you another great reason to visit Killington for Thanksgiving! A Killington, VT Thanksgiving puts your group close to the lifts, festive dining, exciting ski racing, and roomy vacation rentals made for cooking, games, and gathering.
Experience the Thrill of the Stifel Killington Cup!
One of the biggest reasons to visit Killington over Thanksgiving is the return of the Stifel Killington Cup, the East Coast stop of the Audi FIS Ski World Cup. Every Thanksgiving weekend, thousands of ski racing fans gather at Killington Resort to watch the world’s top female ski racers—including Olympic champions and World Cup stars—compete in Giant Slalom and Slalom races on the legendary Superstar trail. The event has become one of the premier stops on the World Cup circuit and is widely recognized as one of the largest women’s alpine ski racing events in the world.
The excitement extends well beyond the racecourse. Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy a lively Festival Village featuring live music, local vendors, athlete bib presentations, fireworks, food and drinks, and an electric après-ski atmosphere. Even if you’re not a dedicated ski racing fan, the energy throughout Killington makes Thanksgiving weekend unlike any other time of year. Race viewing tickets are available in a variety of options, from general admission to grandstand and VIP experiences, making it easy to choose the experience that’s right for you.
After a day cheering on the world’s best athletes or exploring everything the festival has to offer, unwind in the comfort of your Killington vacation rental. With spacious accommodations, cozy fireplaces, and easy access to the resort and surrounding attractions, you’ll have the perfect home base for one of Vermont’s most exciting Thanksgiving traditions.
Is Killington Open on Thanksgiving?
The short answer: usually, yes—conditions permitting. Killington traditionally targets an early/mid-November opening, so you can typically count on Killington being open for skiing and snowboarding over the Thanksgiving holiday!
Killington Thanksgiving Skiing – What to Expect
Early season brings cooler temps and snowmaking, so mornings on the mountain are prime. Killington’s terrain over Thanksgiving often includes groomed laps off Snowdon, North Ridge, or Ramshead (terrain varies by weather). Tip: book lessons for new skiers and aim for first chair; warm up with hot chocolate breaks and an early lunch to skip the rush.
Why Killington Is a Great Thanksgiving Destination for Families
Easy kickoff to winter: Early-season excitement without the peak-holiday crowds.
Group-friendly homes: Multi-bedroom condos and townhomes mean everyone can stay together.
Convenient parking and shuttles: Park once, ride shuttles, and walk to après.
Plenty to do off the hill: From spa time to shopping, to the World Cup Race Village and the annual Turkey Trot, there’s something for everyone.
Not Just Skiing – Off-Slope Killington Fun
Snowshoe or scenic walks at nearby trails and overlooks.
Indoor pool & hot tubs (at select complexes) for afternoon downtime.
Local breweries & cider for the grown-ups; cocoa runs for the kids.
Holiday shopping in nearby villages for Vermont-made gifts.
Thanksgiving Dinner – In-Home or Dine Out
Cook together in your vacation rental: Our Killington rentals offer full kitchens, large dining tables, and everything you might need to make a great holiday meal. Although you may want to bring a roasting pan and any other less common kitchen items that are must-haves for your Thanksgiving meal.
In-home caterers: Local chefs and caterers can handle the turkey and sides while you relax—perfect for multi-family gatherings.
Restaurants with holiday menus: Several Killington restaurants typically offer Thanksgiving dinner seatings or take-out packages. (It’s always best to call the restaurant ahead of time to confirm). Here’s a list of Killington restaurants to consider for Thanksgiving:
On-Mountain Options
- Choices Restaurant – Full turkey dinner, dine in or take out. $29
- The Foundry
- The Wobbly Barn
- Killington Distillery (The Still)
- The Gondoughla
- Preston’s (in the Grand Hotel)
Short Drive Away – Off-Mountain Options
- Mountain Top Inn (Chittenden) – Carving station/soup/salad/desserts set up in their barn from 12pm-6pm. $68 Adult $25 Child
- Cafe Provence (Brandon)
- Prince and the Pauper (Woodstock)
- Woodstock Farmers Market – pre-orders for dine-out Thanksgiving meals
Killington Rentals that Make the Holiday
The Killington Group manages over 100 Killington condos and homes, that would all be perfect for a Thanksgiving getaway with friends and family. From ski-in ski-out properties (note: ski-in/out access typically starts in December) to rentals with hot tubs, shuttle access, fireplaces, and more – we have a variety of rentals to meet any need.
- Pinnacle Condos: Spacious layouts with fireplaces and mountain views; shuttle access for easy ski days. Great for families who want quick trips to and from the lifts.
- Trail Creek: Popular, convenient, and often “ski-home” to Snowshed when snow coverage cooperates (typically from mid-December on); pool/hot tub access and kitchens built for big breakfasts.
- Sunrise Village: Slopeside feel with ski-in/ski-out potential (when terrain opens), plus trail access and amenities—ideal for groups who want max mountain time.
Not sure which complex or location will best fit your group? Tell us your group size and priorities (walk to lifts, hot tub, kids’ room, dog-friendly), and we’ll match you to the right Killington rental.
Sample 3-Day Killington Thanksgiving Itinerary
Wednesday (Arrive & Settle-In)
- Check in, stock the fridge, and prep make-ahead sides.
- Sunset stroll, dinner out, enjoy time by the fireplace, and early to bed.
Thursday (Thanksgiving Day)
- AM: Early Killington laps for the skiers/riders, or head out early for the annual Killington Turkey Trot. Non-skiers and runners can enjoy a quiet morning at your vacation rental, prepping for the big feast.
- PM: Turkey in the oven, board games, football on TV, hot tub breaks.
- Evening: Toast to the mountains and the long weekend ahead.
Friday (Explore & Relax)
- Sleep in, then light skiing or a head to the World Cup Race Village to check out the day’s events
- Afternoon: Enjoy shopping and strolling Killington and a casual dinner out.
Saturday (Choose-Your-Own-Adventure)
- More skiing if weather cooperates, or snowshoe/walk and a family movie night.
- Check out the Slalom and Giant Slalom races at the Stifel Killington Cup
- Leftovers feast and dessert around the table.
- Head home the next morning
Ready to spend Thanksgiving in Killington?
Explore our Killington, VT Thanksgiving rentals—and lock in a home or condo that fits your whole crew. With comfy spaces to cook, gather, and unwind (and lifts a quick shuttle or ski away), your Killington Thanksgiving will be one for the books!
