Where to Find Free Thanksgiving Meals and Events Around DC
Whether you’re hoping to lend a helping hand, share a hot meal, or simply celebrate with your neighbors, there are plenty of free Thanksgiving events happening throughout the D.C. area this season.
Thanksgiving is right around the corner and if you’re looking for ways to give back or enjoy a festive community gathering this holiday season? You’re in the right place! From free meals to fun volunteer events, here’s your guide to the best free Thanksgiving experiences in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia that are perfect if you’d like to enjoy solo or with your family.
Free Thanksgiving Meals
If you or someone you know needs a meal this holiday season, several organizations in the DMV region are offering free Thanksgiving meals in 2025:
Celebrate the season with Bread for the City’s Holiday Helpings program, providing free Thanksgiving-style meal kits to D.C. residents. Meal pick-up is available November 3–25, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m.– 4:00 p.m. (Closed November 11 in observance of Veterans Day.) Residents must show a valid D.C. ID to receive a meal.
Martha’s Table has long been a cornerstone of community care in D.C. This Thanksgiving season, they’re hosting two major celebrations. On Friday, November 14, from 1–4 p.m., the Thankful Meals Celebration & Giveaway will feature live entertainment, appearances from the Washington Wizards and Mystics, and free turkey and pie giveaways while supplies last. Then, on Saturday, November 22, the Community Harvest Dinner will bring hundreds of residents together for a festive, restaurant-style holiday meal filled with gratitude and fellowship.
Food & Friends provides free, home-delivered meals, groceries, and nutrition counseling to community members in need across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Eligibility is based on health needs, and clients must be referred by a healthcare provider. This Thanksgiving season, Food & Friends continues its mission to deliver meals across the region.
On November 26, enjoy a Thanksgiving-style meal, live entertainment, winter coat giveaways, health screenings, and community service booths. The health & resource Fair begins at 9:00 a.m. and the first meal seating begins at 11:00 a.m.
PRANOVA will host its 8th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner for Families in Need on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 4:00–8:00 p.m. The event, in collaboration with local public schools, provided over 750 meals last year and aims to serve an even larger number this year.
Lace up your sneakers and kick off Thanksgiving weekend with the Stuffing Stomp 5K/10K! Happening Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 7:45 a.m., this scenic run/walk along the Potomac River is perfect for families, strollers, and anyone ready to stomp out those holiday calories. Go solo, go with friends, or take it virtual!
Kick off your holiday cheer on Friday, November 22, 2025, from 7:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. at Project GiveBack’s massive food-basket distribution! Families in need can snag free Thanksgiving goodies while volunteers and community members come together to celebrate giving.
Join the family-friendly fun on Saturday, November 22, 2025, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. for Silver Spring’s Thanksgiving Parade! Marching bands, dazzling floats, and giant inflatables make this a holiday spectacle the whole family will love.
Celebrate Wednesday, November 26, 2025, 11:45 a.m.–2:45 p.m. with Goodwill’s 68th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner & Resource Fair! Grab a full turkey dinner, explore community services, and enjoy a festive gathering.
Whether you’re looking to give back, enjoy a meal with your community, or simply connect with others this holiday season, the DMV has plenty of opportunities to make Thanksgiving special for everyone.
