Thanksgiving in Minnesota is a holiday rich with unique traditions that reflect the state’s hearty spirit and its close connection to both family and nature.
While many parts of the country celebrate the holiday with turkey and pumpkin pie, Minnesotans bring their own flair, adding a dash of local flavor to the occasion.
From outdoor activities to one-of-a-kind dishes, here are nine Thanksgiving traditions that only Minnesotans truly understand.
1. The Thanksgiving Hotdish Feast
If there’s one dish that symbolizes Minnesota’s love for comfort food, it’s hotdish. While the rest of the country might be focused on stuffing, Minnesotans prepare an array of hotdishes — casserole-like meals made with a combination of meats, vegetables, and a creamy binder, all topped with crispy tater tots or breadcrumbs. This beloved dish often takes center stage at Thanksgiving tables, proving that Minnesotans never shy away from hearty, filling meals.
2. Watching the Vikings Game (Win or Lose)
No Thanksgiving in Minnesota is complete without the purple pride of the Minnesota Vikings. Whether the team is having a stellar season or facing challenges, Minnesotans gather to cheer (or groan) together in front of the TV. The Vikings game becomes a family tradition, with many donning their jerseys and breaking out snacks to enjoy during the matchup. It’s an unspoken rule that the Thanksgiving feast must include watching the game, no matter what.
3. Post-Dinner Ice Fishing
It might seem unusual, but for Minnesotans, ice fishing isn’t just a winter pastime – it’s also a Thanksgiving tradition. As soon as the turkey is served and the dishes are cleared, some families grab their gear and head to nearby lakes.
The cooler temperatures of late November provide the perfect excuse to test out their ice fishing setups and enjoy a brisk afternoon on the ice. For those with a more relaxed approach, it’s also an excellent time to enjoy a hot beverage and take in the serene winter landscape.
4. Cranberry Sauce with a Twist
While cranberry sauce is a Thanksgiving staple nationwide, Minnesotans often give it a creative twist. Many add a touch of locally grown fruit, like apples, or mix in a dash of spice for extra flavor. Some even top it off with crushed nuts or a drizzle of maple syrup, taking this side dish from basic to extraordinary with a distinct Minnesota twist.
5. The Minnesota State Fair Leftovers
Although the Minnesota State Fair happens long before Thanksgiving, many families keep the Fair spirit alive by incorporating leftover foods into their Thanksgiving spread.
Think deep-fried turkey, wild rice hotdish, or even caramel rolls. These dishes are often inspired by the food festival and offer a nostalgic nod to the summer’s festivities, making for a one-of-a-kind Thanksgiving spread.
6. Outdoor “Thanksgiving” in the Snow
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With the first snow often arriving in Minnesota right around Thanksgiving, many families make the most of it. Instead of staying inside all day, some Minnesotans venture outdoors for a post-feast walk or even a snowball fight. There’s something magical about enjoying the crisp winter air and the fresh snowfall while still feeling the warmth of the holiday.
7. Thanksgiving Packer Rivalry
While most states have their share of sports rivalries, in Minnesota, the Thanksgiving dinner table often becomes ground zero for the Packers vs. Vikings rivalry. Many families who support the Packers (and who aren’t afraid to show it) clash with their Minnesota-born relatives in friendly, but fiercely competitive banter. The holiday meal often becomes a backdrop to this family “sport,” and the winner takes pride in gloating over their victory — until the next season.
8. Rural Farm Gatherings
Minnesota is known for its agricultural roots, and many families who live on farms or in smaller rural communities celebrate Thanksgiving in a uniquely rustic way.
Instead of hosting in large cities or suburban homes, some Minnesotans spend the holiday on working farms, where the day may involve pie-baking contests, hand-picked vegetables, or even a visit to the barn after dinner. The emphasis on local food and traditions truly brings people together in this setting.
9. The Thanksgiving 5K Run/Walk
A beloved Thanksgiving tradition in Minnesota is the annual 5K run or walk. From the Twin Cities to smaller towns, Minnesotans hit the pavement in the morning to work up an appetite before the big meal. Many families take part in these fun runs together, wearing turkey-themed outfits, while others do it for charity, helping to raise money for local causes. It’s a great way to celebrate fitness, community, and the spirit of the holiday before diving into the holiday feast.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving in Minnesota is a celebration that goes beyond the traditional turkey dinner.
Whether it’s enjoying hearty hotdish, watching the Vikings game, or embracing the winter cold with ice fishing or a snowball fight, Minnesotans bring their own unique charm and warmth to the holiday. These nine quirky traditions are just a glimpse into what makes Thanksgiving in the Land of 10,000 Lakes one-of-a-kind.
