Lake Tapps Living: The 2025 Thanksgiving Survival & Celebration Guide
Sumner Bridge Lighting
November 27–30, 2025
There is a distinct rhythm to life on the Plateau when late November hits. The water level drops, revealing the skeleton of the lakebed; the fog rolls thick over the Bonney Lake hills; and we officially enter what I like to call "The Great Caloric Amnesty."
Thanksgiving weekend in our corner of Pierce County isn't just about the bird. It is a transition point. It is the moment we pivot from the quiet of autumn to the frenetic, joyful energy of the holiday season in the Sumner Valley.
Whether you are looking to burn off the stuffing, escape the kitchen entirely, or entertain a house full of relatives who think it rains 24/7 here, this is your curated, strategic guide to the weekend.
1. The Main Event: Sumner Bridge Lighting
Saturday, November 29 | The Old Cannery, Sumner
If you have lived here for seventy years or seven days, this is non-negotiable. It is the definitive kick-off to Christmas in the valley, a slice of Americana so potent it feels like a movie set.
The Vibe: It is crowded, loud, and undeniably magical. You have live reindeer, carols, and the countdown to the fireworks that light up the Cannery Way Bridge.
The Strategy: Do not underestimate the traffic. Cannery Way becomes a parking lot by 4:30 PM. Park in the downtown lots by 3:00 PM, grab a coffee at Craft 19, and walk over.
The Details: Visit The Old Cannery Event Page
2. The Morning Burn: Battle of the Turkey Trots
Thanksgiving Morning, Thursday, November 27
There is a specific nobility in running a 5K in the cold before consuming 4,000 calories. We have two excellent options equidistant from the lake, depending on your preferred terrain.
Team North: The Auburn Turkey Trot
Location: Sunset Park, Lakeland Hills
The Draw: It is flat, fast, and incredibly social. If you are pushing a stroller or running with a dog, this is your race.
Start Time: 9:00 AM
Register: Auburn Parks & Rec Turkey Trot
Team South: The Gobble Gobble Run
Location: Pierce College, Puyallup
The Draw: If you want to feel the burn, this course offers elevation changes and a massive community turnout. It feels like a block party with running shoes.
Start Time: 8:30 AM
Register: Tacoma City Running Club Events
3. The Illumination: Opening Weekend for Lights
Starts Friday, November 28
When the sun sets at 4:20 PM, we have two choices: complain about the dark, or embrace the artificial brilliance. Two local heavyweights flip the switch this Friday.
Fantasy Lights (Spanaway Park): The Northwest’s largest drive-through display. The beauty here is the climate control. You stay in your car, blast your own playlist, and stay dry.
Zoolights (Point Defiance Zoo): The active option. Walking through the zoo at night with 800,000 lights is an immersive experience. Look for the classic "flame tree"—it never gets old.
Pro Tip: Do not wait to buy tickets at the gate. Opening weekend slots sell out online days in advance.
4. Dining Out: The "Kitchen Amnesty" Options
Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov 27
Perhaps you burned the bird. Perhaps you simply refuse to do dishes. Whatever the reason, these local staples are keeping the lights on for you.
The Cliff House (Browns Point): If you want white tablecloths and a panoramic view of the Sound, this is the spot. Their Thanksgiving menu runs 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM.
Muckleshoot Casino: For the indecisive group. The Thanksgiving Buffet is legendary for its sheer scale. Go early to mitigate the line.
Crockett's Public House (Bonney Lake): Sometimes, you just want a really good burger and a beer, not a turkey. A reliable, high-quality local standby.
A Real Estate "Look Ahead"
While you are out this weekend, take a look at the rooflines in your neighborhood. You'll notice the early birds are already hanging lights.
The Bonney Lake Tree Lighting isn't until December 6, but this weekend is your strategic window. The weather is forecasted to be manageable. Get the gutters cleaned and the clips up now before the December freeze turns your ladder into a safety hazard. Curb appeal doesn't stop just because it's winter!
From the Scheer Gold Team at RE/MAX Extra, we wish you a warm home, a full table, and a Happy Thanksgiving.
