It’s the week of Thanksgiving, and you still don’t have everything ready? Don’t worry — Sacramento’s got you covered. Whether you need a fresh turkey, a backup pie, or a fully cooked dinner, here’s the ultimate last-minute Thanksgiving shopping and dining guide for Sacramento 2025.
Last-Minute Turkey & Grocery Shopping
Nugget Markets (Multiple Locations)
- Known for gourmet groceries and local turkeys.
- Many locations stay open Thanksgiving morning for last-minute shoppers.
Safeway
- Large chain with extended hours Thanksgiving week.
- Great for staples like stuffing, cranberries, and pies.
Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op
- Perfect for organic produce and specialty items.
- Smaller stock, so shop early in the week.
Costco (Rancho Cordova, Arden, Elk Grove)
- Bulk shopping for big gatherings.
- Note: May run out of fresh turkeys by Thanksgiving Eve.
Pies & Desserts (Pickup-Friendly)
- Freeport Bakery (East Sac): Pumpkin pies, cheesecakes, holiday tarts.
- Ettore’s (Fair Oaks Blvd): Elegant cakes + pies, often has extras day-of.
- Pushkin’s Bakery (Midtown): Gluten-free & vegan desserts.
- Apple Hill Farms: Grab pies and cider up until the holiday.
💡 Local Tip: Call ahead for “day-of extras” — many bakeries bake extra pies for walk-ins.
Dining Out on Thanksgiving Day
Sometimes it’s easier to let someone else cook:
- The Firehouse Restaurant (Old Sac): Historic fine dining, special Thanksgiving menu.
- Grange (Downtown): Farm-to-fork feast with local wine pairings.
- Thunder Valley & Red Hawk Casinos: All-you-can-eat buffets with holiday favorites.
- Local Diners: Many stay open with Thanksgiving platters.
💡 Pro Tip: Reservations are almost gone by Thanksgiving Eve — call ASAP.
Sacramento Thanksgiving Essentials
- Florists: Relles Florist (Downtown) for centerpieces and table flowers.
- Wine: Corti Brothers or Total Wine for last-minute bottles.
- Decor: Target, Michaels, and Dollar Tree (yes, even the night before).
Last-Minute Thanksgiving Help in Sacramento Summary
| Need | Where to Go | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey + groceries | Nugget, Safeway, Raley’s | Check holiday hours |
| Pies + desserts | Freeport, Ettore’s, Pushkin’s | Call ahead for extras |
| Full dinner out | Firehouse, Grange, Seasons 52 | Reserve early |
| Buffet dinner | Thunder Valley, Red Hawk | Arrive early to avoid lines |
| Wine & drinks | Corti Brothers, Total Wine | Huge selection |
| Flowers + decor | Relles Florist, Michaels | Great for last-minute touch-ups |
FAQs: Last-Minute Thanksgiving Sacramento
Where can I buy a turkey the day before Thanksgiving?
Safeway, Raley’s, and Nugget Markets usually have stock through Wednesday.
What if I need a pie on Thanksgiving morning?
Freeport Bakery and Ettore’s often bake extras — call early.
Are Sacramento restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day?
Yes — Firehouse, Grange, Seasons 52, and local casinos offer special menus.
Can I get a full pre-cooked Thanksgiving meal in Sacramento?
Yes — Nugget Markets, Raley’s, and some restaurants offer pre-order meal kits.
What’s the best last-minute wine shop?
Corti Brothers for curated bottles, Total Wine for variety.
Final Thoughts
From DOCO’s giant Christmas tree to Folsom’s charming festival and the magical Polar Express ride, Sacramento starts the holiday season strong. Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to step outside, sip some cocoa, and dive straight into the lights, parades, and celebrations.
👉 Circle the dates now — Sacramento’s holiday season starts the moment Thanksgiving ends.
Related Resources:
The Best Thanksgiving Events In Sacramento 2025
