Thanksgiving 2025 in Hampton Roads: Community Events, Volunteer Opportunities & Ways to Give Back

🦃 Thanksgiving 2025 in Hampton Roads: Community Events, Volunteer Opportunities & Ways to Give Back

As the holiday season approaches, Thanksgiving in Hampton Roads brings more than just turkey dinners — it’s a time for community, gratitude, and giving back. Whether you’re looking to participate in local events, find a place to volunteer, or simply enjoy a festive meal, here’s your guide to Thanksgiving in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, and the surrounding area.

1. Local Thanksgiving Events & Community Meals

Kroc Center Free Thanksgiving Service & Lunch

• The Kroc Center hosts a free Thanksgiving service and community lunch, welcoming families across the region for a time of fellowship and gratitude. Kroc Hampton Roads

• This is a warm, inclusive event — perfect if you want to give thanks with others in a meaningful way.

Ivy Baptist Community Feast

• The Thanksgiving Community Feast at Ivy Baptist Church offers a full, no-cost meal for the community. Last year’s event was held at Heritage High School, and no RSVP is required. Hampton Roads Messenger

• It’s an excellent opportunity to share a holiday dinner in a welcoming, family-friendly environment.

2. Ways to Give Back

Rutter Mills Turkey Drop

• On November 19, 2025, Rutter Mills will distribute 300 complete Thanksgiving dinners via a drive-through at their Virginia Beach office (4287 Holland Rd). Rutter Mills

• This is a meaningful way to serve the community — all are welcome, and it's first-come, first-served.

Operation Holiday Joy (YMCA)

• Operation Holiday Joy, run by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, provides food baskets and holiday support to military and low-income families in the area. Hampton Roads ASYMCA

• Though registration for 2025 is full, you can still join the waitlist or donate to support families in need.

Food Drive – RESET, Inc.

• RESET, Inc. is hosting a Thanksgiving food drive through Volunteer Hampton Roads to collect non-perishable food items for families facing financial hardship. Volunteer Hampton Roads

• Donating canned goods or other staples helps make a real difference for local families during the holiday.

3. Local Thanksgiving Dining Options & Tips

• Visit Virginia Beach recommends restaurants and family-friendly places to celebrate Thanksgiving around town — from seaside dining to traditional holiday meals. Visit Virginia Beach

• For residents looking to host or contribute: consider ordering from local farms or small businesses to support the community and create a meaningful spread.

4. Why Giving Back Matters (and How Real Estate Fits In)

Thanksgiving is more than food — it's about community. When we support local charities, donate, or volunteer, we strengthen our neighborhoods. At United Atlantic Realty, we believe in building more than homes — we believe in building a stronger Hampton Roads.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or settling into the area, participating in these events helps you connect with your neighbors and make your mark — not just on the real estate market, but on the lives around you.

5. Get Involved — or Reach Out

• Want help identifying volunteer opportunities or local organizations to support?

• Thinking of selling or buying and want to align your real estate goals with your community values?

📲 Contact James J Griffin III
📞 757-619-0930
📧 james@uarva.com
🌐 www.uarva.com