A Taste of Thanksgiving in Bellingham

By David Dunbar

“Thanksgiving and all the wonderful smells of the turkey, stuffing and all the sides emanating from the kitchen will be here in a few short weeks,” notes Kay Page, chair of the Bellingham Council on Aging.  

“Thanksgiving,” she continues, “is all about being together -- family/friends, food, football and fun!  Don’t forget the delicious desserts -- the apple and pumpkin pies.  Happy Thanksgiving, enjoy the wonderful holiday!”

It is a uniquely American holiday with families and friends gathering to celebrate, including folks from other countries.

Elle Taran was born in Moscow and lives with her husband and two sons in Bellingham.

“Every year, we host an annual Thanksgiving that brings together our diverse family of Jewish Russian immigrants, Italians, Scots, and everyone in between under one roof,” she explains.  “The sizable Russian contingent, with their lively spirit and strong family bonds, eagerly joins in the celebration, drawn to the holiday’s sense of gratitude and togetherness.”  

“Despite being a uniquely American tradition,” she continues, “Thanksgiving resonates with them, because it mirrors their own values of hospitality, good food, and the importance of gathering with loved ones. It’s a joyous fusion of cultures, where everyone brings a piece of their heritage to the table, creating a truly unique celebration.” 

If dining out is your preference this year, then there are nearby restaurants to choose from, all open on Thanksgiving Day.  Here are five:  Coachmen’s Lodge in Bellingham, 3 Restaurant in Franklin, Christopher’s Kitchen & Bar in Woonsocket, New England Steak & Seafood in Mendon, and Wright’s Farm Restaurant in Harrisville.

“You can tell you ate too much for Thanksgiving when you have to let your bathrobe out.’’ -- Jay Leno

“My family always gets together at my sister’s home, we always have at least 40 with all the children, nieces and nephews. We continue all the traditions we celebrated together growing up with our parents, all the same dishes and desserts,” says Denis Fraine, Bellingham’s Town Administrator.

If you prefer sitting on the couch and watching TV, check out Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade; some movies you might like include The Walton’s Thanksgiving, Almost Christmas, and Beethoven.  Oh, and don’t forget all those holiday football games.

For Bellingham’s Rich and Maryanne Meyers, Thanksgiving is about “having a fun, relaxing day when we play games, talk and catch up.” Maryanne continues, “We celebrate on Saturday, so there’s more time for family members who live elsewhere in New England to join us. My son has done the cooking for the past five years… and he’s great!” What is she most grateful for?  “The good health of every member of our family.”   

For those looking to “trot” first thing Thanksgiving morning, the 13th Annual Franklin Turkey Trot starts at 8 a.m.; 5K long (more at franklinfoodpantry.org) Both donate to local charities.

“Thanksgiving is a special time for my family and me,” says Ken Fitzgerald, Bellingham’s Chief of Police. “It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate all that we have. We usually celebrate with a big family gathering, sharing a traditional meal filled with turkey, stuffing, and all the fixings. It’s also a chance to connect with loved ones and share stories, which always brings us closer together.”

“This time of year,” he adds, “I’m especially grateful for the support of our community in Bellingham and the opportunity to serve and protect it. The resilience and kindness I see in our town and staff truly inspires me.”

Advice for Thanksgiving celebrants?  Police Chief Fitzgerald says, “I’d remind everyone to enjoy the day, but also to prioritize safety. Whether it’s traveling to see family or hosting gatherings, being mindful of road safety and fire hazards in the kitchen can help ensure that everyone has a happy and safe holiday.”