Happy Thanksgiving

Photo & Text Copyright 2009 Seattle Daily Photo. All rights reserved, including reproduction or republishing.

Wishing those in the USA a very happy Thanksgiving holiday, and everyone around the world, may your forks be full, your health terrific, and your loved ones close to you. This holiday weekend kicks off huge events in Seattle, starting with the Macy's Holiday Parade downtown tomorrow morning, and in the evening the lighting of the giant star on the old Bon Marche building (now Macy's) for the 52nd year, the lighting of the city Christmas tree and fireworks display across the street at Westlake Center, and festive downtown streets decked in lights and Christmas display windows, with the carousel twirling at Westlake Park and people lined up to take photos with Santa across the street. Winterfest also kicks off Friday at Seattle Center with ice skating, the Winter Train and Village, the lighted tree atop the Space Needle and Santa on the Observation Deck. The month long festival will continue through New Year and feature Solstice celebrations and many seasonal events and performances. Saturday the Huskies face the Cougars in the Apple Cup footbal game, which divides in-state loyalties between University of Washington grads/fans and Washington State University grads/fans. Sunday brings the Seattle Marathon and half marathon with thousands running through the scenic streets, and the Seahawks face the Rams in a home game in which the Hawks are favored to win. Seattle's jam-packed weekend is capped off with the first Sunday of Advent tradition at St. Mark's Cathedral of the Cathedral Choir joining with the Compline Choir at 7 PM for the beautiful O Antiphons service and processional.