A Thoughtful Guide for American Expats Celebrating Abroad
For American expats living in San Miguel de Allende, Thanksgiving can be both a nostalgic reminder of home and a beautiful opportunity to create something entirely your own. Far from the football games and grocery store turkeys of the U.S., this vibrant colonial town offers something more intimate: a sense of community rooted in shared experiences, creativity, and warmth.
Whether you’re a long-term resident or spending just one special season here, Thanksgiving in San Miguel is a chance to honor tradition, embrace local culture, and gather with your chosen family in one of the most charming settings in Mexico.
Here’s how to host a meaningful, memorable Thanksgiving celebration in the heart of San Miguel.
Share the Tradition with Non-American Friends
Thanksgiving isn’t widely celebrated in Mexico, which makes it a wonderful chance to invite Mexican friends and fellow expats from around the world to your table. Many will be curious to experience the holiday, and grateful for the invitation.
There’s something deeply rewarding about sharing your culture in a way that’s inclusive and welcoming, especially in a city as internationally minded as San Miguel.
Host a Potluck—and Celebrate Culinary Diversity
San Miguel is full of creative cooks and food lovers. Encourage guests to bring a dish that reflects their heritage or a personal favorite. The result? A truly eclectic and delicious holiday meal.
Some of our most memorable dinners have included southern-style cheese grits, Indian curries, lentil loaves, and Oaxacan moles. Let your table reflect the diversity of your friendships—and your life abroad.
Shop Local, Cook Seasonal
You won’t always find familiar Thanksgiving ingredients at La Comer or Mercado Sano—but that’s part of the fun. Head to Ignacio Ramírez Market, Tianguis de los Martes, or your local organic stand to explore what’s in season.
Piloncillo (raw sugar cones) to sweeten sweet potatoes
Flor de jamaica for a tart twist on cranberry sauce
Local squash, guava, or cinnamon for desserts and cocktails
Cooking with Mexican ingredients adds a local flair that makes the meal uniquely San Miguel.
Begin the Evening on a Rooftop
Few places offer better golden hour views than San Miguel. If you have access to a rooftop terrace or a friend’s mirador, start your Thanksgiving with a sunset cocktail hour. Serve mulled wine, spiced mezcal, or warm ponche to welcome guests as the light fades over the Parroquia.
It’s one of those moments where you realize just how much there is to be thankful for—especially in a place this beautiful.
Set a Table That Feels Special
Home entertaining is a way of life in San Miguel. Elevate your gathering with a beautiful, intentional table using local touches—think fresh flowers from the market, handwoven textiles, clay candlesticks, or seasonal fruits as decoration.
Skip the assigned seats. Let guests mingle freely and connect organically, just like so many friendships here begin—with a smile and a shared meal.
Add Games and Connection
After dinner, break out the cards or a board game. Cards Against Humanity is always a hit with friends (though definitely best after cocktails and not one for abuelita!). If your group is more mixed, opt for something light and silly like charades or Uno.
Games are a great way to keep the evening going—and build deeper connections with friends old and new.
Rethink Dessert—Go Local
If you can’t find pumpkin pie or don’t have access to an American-style bakery, don’t stress. In fact, it’s a perfect excuse to explore Mexican desserts:
Churros with cinnamon and sugar
Tres leches cake or flan
Pan de elote (Mexican sweet corn cake)
A scoop of cajeta drizzled over ice cream
It’s not about tradition for tradition’s sake—it’s about making something special with what you have, where you are.
Let the Night Unfold with Gratitude
Don’t rush to clean up or end the evening. Savor the candlelight, the conversation, and the clink of one last mezcal toast. Living abroad teaches you to appreciate the unrepeatable moments—and hosting Thanksgiving here is one of them.
Let your guests know how much you appreciate them. These shared traditions, built far from home, become the new memories we carry forward.
