Cousin Eddie coming to Thanksgiving?

One of my favorite conversations from the movie Christmas Vacation is when Clark asks Cousin Eddie, “Can I refill your eggnog for you? Get you something to eat? Drive you out to the middle of nowhere and leave you for dead?” Eddie is, of course, oblivious, and answers, “Naw, I'm doing just fine, Clark.”

That image of Eddie, happily sipping eggnog from moose-shaped mug and wearing a white sweater and brown dickie, brings a smile to my face every time I think about it.

And, be honest, which of us hasn’t wanted some relief when our homes are overrun with out-of-town guests during the holidays?

According to AAA’s Travel Tracker, more than 42.5 million people plan to travel in the United States this Thanksgiving holiday to visit family and friends, the highest number since the start of the recession. AAA said that four percent more Americans than last year will journey at least 50 miles from home, with about 90 percent of them driving. That’s a lot of houseguests and a lot of weary hosts and hostesses!

If you’re like Clark Griswold and are looking for a way to get your dear loved ones out of your house for a bit, you’re in luck! Events and festivals are happening around the state throughout the long Thanksgiving holiday. Encourage your friends and family members to check out Iowa during their visit. They’ll make a memory to last a lifetime, and it just may give you an opportunity to take a nap.


Happy Thanksgiving!

Shawna Lode, Iowa Tourism Office

Thanksgiving weekend events in Iowa:


(For a more complete list, visit http://www.traveliowa.com/)

Nov 25: Black Market Friday, Des Moines

Nov. 25: Parade of Lights, Fort Madison

Nov 25 - Nov 26: Thanksgiving Candlelight Tour at Ushers Ferry Historic Village, Cedar Rapids

Nov 25 - Nov 27: Julefest, Elk Horn

Nov 25 - Nov 27: Holiday Celebration, Red Oak 

Nov 26: Ozark Jubilee: Legends of Country Music, Fairfield 

Nov 27: Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra featuring Rockapella, Iowa City