Seasonal Events Bring People Together
As late November brings colder weather to the Snowy Range, Thanksgiving in Laramie brings together tradition, community gatherings and Wyoming hospitality. From busy kitchens to downtown events, the holiday gives everyone a chance to pause, reflect and enjoy the season’s warmth.
The staff of the Railyard, a favorite spot on Grand Avenue, is preparing to welcome families and students staying in town. Their Thanksgiving Dinner, held on Nov. 27, will feature smoked turkey, glazed ham and all the classic sides.
For many people in Laramie, Thanksgiving is about more than just food, it is also about connecting with others. The city hosts events that go beyond the holiday, bringing together gratitude and community.
At the University of Wyoming, students juggle preparing for finals, traveling home and getting ready for the holidays. Dining halls will serve turkey, stuffing and casseroles to match the season. Campus may be quieter, giving students and staff a break from the usual hustle and bustle of everyday life.
“Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday,” UW student David Hathaway said. “I am headed back to Montana to spend time with my family because they are very important to me.”
The city of Laramie hosts a parade and train lighting event on Dec. 12 at Depot Park and the downtown area. Local businesses join in the holiday spirit, too. Small shops downtown get ready for Small Business Saturday, encouraging people to shop locally after Thanksgiving.
Food is still at the heart of the holiday. The Railyard serves mashed potatoes and gravy, baked mac and cheese, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole and cranberry sauce. Desserts like pumpkin pie and cobbler finish the meal.
For families who like to cook at home, grocery stores in Laramie have shelves filled with holiday staples. Things to look for are cranberries, stuffing mixes and pie crusts all ready for the season.
Thanksgiving in Laramie is also about giving back. Churches and nonprofits hold food drives before the holiday to ensure everyone has enough to eat. Clubs and organizations within the university also get involved in raising money and collecting items for families in need during this time.
The holiday also connects with Wyoming’s love of the outdoors. Some people use the long weekend to hike local trails or visit the mountains. Be sure to check the weather and plan ahead in case of an emergency!
For students who stay in town, the holiday can feel bittersweet, but local traditions help ease the bittersweetness. The UW Conference Center holds seasonal markets and bazaars with crafts, baked goods and handmade gifts.
Thanksgiving in Laramie is special to students and community members. It is a reminder that gratitude can be expressed in many forms, such as through meals, gatherings, shopping locally or simply pausing to appreciate the beautiful town.
As Thanksgiving approaches, the town prepares to welcome both longtime residents and newcomers. Seasonal banners and decorations highlight the sense of belonging, reflecting how the community finds strength in gathering together.
Thanksgiving in Laramie is about the spirit that brings the town together. Whether enjoying dinner at The Railyard, cooking at home, or walking through downtown, the holiday is a time to honor tradition and enjoy the present.
If looking for places to spend Thanksgiving and things to do over the break, be sure to check out www.visitlaramie.org
