Eleven Thursdays before her most important one of the year, Cynthia Brooks is sitting in the Bea Gaddy Family Centers building on Chester Street, thinking about both the past and future.

Ever since her mother, the center’s beloved namesake, opened her home to neighbors in need of a Thanksgiving dinner in 1981, her family has made it their mission to feed the hungry. But hunger is not restricted to holidays.

“On Thursdays, people can get fresh vegetables so they can make it through the weekend,” says Brooks, 64, just minutes before the pantry opens at noon. “Everyone deserves to have food, however you got here, whatever your circumstance.”

Gaddy’s passion for feeding people has become her children’s as well. When the matriarch died in 2001, Brooks and her two sisters, two brothers, and foster sister took over the center that her mother, who eventually became a city councilperson, helped start two decades earlier.

The organization serves roughly 350 people a month, providing food, clothing, diapers, baby formula, and more. On Thanksgiving, that number balloons to about 50,000. Anyone in the city can enjoy turkey, green beans, sweet potatoes, and other traditional trappings that so many take for granted—all for free. The food is served on-site, as well as via delivery.

It started with a lucky streak, when Gaddy won $270 in the local lottery. “She made a Thanksgiving dinner for our family, but she stood in the doorway and invited people to come in and eat with us,” Brooks recalls. “She put this big table out and we sat there with total strangers. She had a really big heart.”

Needless to say, it takes a bit more planning and money to meet their current demand, with volunteers recruited from the community.

“It’s near and dear to [Cynthia’s] heart,” says Tracey Estep, who works as chief of operations for the Mayor’s Office of African-American Male Engagement and helps engage local youth in the effort. “It’s all [she and her siblings] knew growing up as children. When you’re a servant-leader, it doesn’t take much for you to continue that spirit of giving.”

Historically, the Thanksgiving dinner has been held at the Virginia S. Baker Recreation Center in Patterson Park, around the corner from Gaddy’s former home. It’s since moved due to building maintenance. But wherever it happens, thousands of Baltimoreans will enjoy eating a hot, homemade Thanksgiving dinner they likely wouldn’t have had otherwise.

Although Brooks won’t be one of them. “After you’ve looked at that much turkey and stuffing and mashed potatoes, that’s the last thing you want,” she says. “We get Chinese food.”

Can we all agree that Thanksgiving is a perfect holiday? It’s weighted toward family and reflection, so it is spiritually uplifting regardless of faith. And of course, it all orbits the gravitational mass of the dinner table offerings. We understand if you’re ambivalent about turkey, but it’s the accompanying fare that makes the meal great. It also allows for fun wine pairings, so here are our picks for an eclectic approach to Thanksgiving fare.

G.D. Vajra NS Dalla Neve Rosé Extra Brut
($35, Winebow)

This sparkling rosé is unique in that it hails from the Piedmont region of Italy, an area known for long-lived red wine, not for sparkling wine production. G.D. Vajra enjoys a reputation for being among the top producers in the Barolo zone, home to the best Nebbiolo grapes. No surprise, this has made Nebbiolo blended with Pinot Noir a traditional component of Champagne. It offers electric notes of strawberry and a dash of apple. It’s juicy but not sweet, just a delicious sparkling wine that happily pairs with a range of flavors.

Le Vigne Eli Etna Bianco 2022
($30, Free Run Wine Merchants)

Mount Etna is an interesting place to work vineyards. But the rich volcanic soils yield some of Italy’s most captivating wines, so growers adapt to the occasional eruption to keep working. Le Vigne Eli is a passion project of legend- ary wine importer Marc di Grazia and named for his daughter Elena. The wine is made from the native Carricante grape and is bursting with ripe notes of pear, minerals, and citrus. It’s light enough to dance with simple flavors without getting in the way of more complex dishes.

Domaine de la Mordoree Lirac
“La Dame Rousse” 2019 ($30, Kysela Pere et Fils)

Red wine can be the trickier match this month. Generally speaking, you want something on the juicy side but not super tannic or heavy, since there are also some delicate tones on the plate. Pinot Noir is a safe bet, and the wines of Beaujolais work well, too. Roughly equal parts Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre, this organically grown wine from Southern France also fits the bill. This lithely constructed wine neither dominates nor fatigues the palate. It will also go great with Friday’s sandwiches.

In mid-November, while the rest of us are busy prepping pies and stuffing turkeys, local cyclists will take off with baskets and backpacks to search the city’s grocery stores for boxes of oatmeal, jars of peanut butter, cans of beans, and so on.

Now in its ninth year, Cranksgiving has become an annual tradition—and competition—that combines a bike race, scavenger hunt, and food drive, one that is now as synonymous with Thanksgiving in Baltimore as sauerkraut. For cyclists, at least.

“It’s an event filled with joy,” says Jed Weeks, interim executive director and policy director of Bikemore, the local nonprofit cycling advocacy group that hosts the event. “We found a way that Bikemore can give back to the community in a time of need and elevate other nonprofits in the city…It’s really a win-win.”

In 1999, the tradition began in New York City, with one generous bike messenger, Antonio Rodriges, who was in search of a unique way to give back to his community. He designed the event to resemble “alley cat races,” or unsanctioned bike races meant to mimic a messenger’s intense, fast-paced daily routine, and it took off.

Before long, Cranksgiving went nationwide, and in 2015, Baltimore caught on when Bikemore started its own competition, with gathered goods supporting two local food insecurity nonprofits, Moveable Feast and the Franciscan Center.

To date, there have been close to 500 participants and more than $5,000 worth of donations. But this is no ordinary food drive. With a list of groceries and locations, small teams depart from Charm City Meadworks and hit various designated stores throughout the city, with only two hours allotted for travel or shopping.

At the end of the race, donations are divided into bins, points are tallied based on their speed and haul, and awards are handed out during an after-party. Over the years, participants have established friendly rivalries and some don holiday-themed costumes aboard festively decorated bikes.

This month, Cranksgiving will take place on Saturday, Nov. 18, starting at 1 p.m. Registration is free, beyond at least $10 for groceries, encouraging ample participation. And in the years to come, Weeks hopes that the organization can entice even more participants, perhaps through the inclusion of e-scooters and other mobility devices, in an effort to accommodate those without bike access.

“It’s not just for bike messengers and roadie cyclists,” he says, as new bikers, kids, and families from across the city have participated in this one-of-a-kind ride. “It balances the competition spirit with pure fun. I don’t know how to describe it; it just feels very Baltimore.”

This month, many of us will be able to bring family together for Thanksgiving in a way that was largely impossible in 2020. For that, we indeed give thanks. As usual, the palates of your guests will be as diverse as their personalities. But no matter who’s sitting at your table—a wine geek, a beer snob, or a person who couldn’t care less and just wants something delicious to sip on—we’ve got you covered!

Fun Fact: Every family has its traditions on Thanksgiving and not all of them are wine-friendly. All the rules about pairings need to relax a little on this holiday. Mix it up—and open things like Riesling, Lambrusco, cheap lagers, and Belgian Lambics. And if White Claw is your thing, we won’t judge.

Giovanni Almondo Roero Arneis “Bricco delle Ciliegie” 2020
($25, Passion Wines)

White wine might seem like an easy call with turkey, but heavier, oaky Chardonnays don’t always play well with mild flavors, and light, simpler wines like Pinot Grigio can get beaten down by thick gravies and sweetish side dishes. This beautifully taut wine hails from Italy’s Piemonte region and offers up plenty of pretty, perfumed notes of white flowers and a touch of green tea that will float above such things without trouncing the bird. A racier finish displays notes of pear and lemon to wash it all down and prepare you for the next forkful.

Erdinger Dunkel
($13 six-pack bottles, Legends)

Here’s a brew that seems perfectly crafted for Thanksgiving fare. Dunkel is brewed as a wheat beer but with darker, chocolatey malts to give it its distinctive color and richer texture. It was first made in 1989 as a present to the brewery’s owner from the brewing staff. He was so impressed with it, he ordered it into production, and it became available to the public in 1990. It’s rich and a little spicy, able to support roasted fowl and hearty vegetables. It’s also elegant and smooth, not interrupting the flow of the meal.

Black Tot Caribbean Rum
($55, Winebow)

Whiskey of some iteration tends to be the high-test sipper of choice as the weather gets cooler, but may we suggest a good rum? After all, for centuries, the British Navy supplied its sailors with a daily ration of rum to steel their nerves against the rigors of Navy life. This came to be known as the daily “tot” until 1970, when the practice was eliminated. Black Tot Rum pays homage to that day and brings together the flavors of Barbados, Guyana, and Jamaica in a rum that offers spicy tropical notes along with coffee and chocolate. It’s a layered and complex offering that will please the single malt Scotch crowd and is also rich, which will surely suit the Bourbon brigade.

Somehow, we’re already halfway through November and a week out from Thanksgiving. When it comes to the food-filled holiday, every family has its own traditions. For some, it’s about gathering around the dining room table at home—and lounging on the couch after one too many slices of pumpkin pie. But others value the ease of letting a restaurant do all of the cooking and cleaning. No matter your preference, the local dining scene is offering plenty of options if you’re getting a late start to planning your Turkey Day this year. Whether you’re searching for last-minute pies and potluck dishes to impress loved ones, or just hoping to make a reservation somewhere, here are a few options.

POTLUCK PICKS

Bramble Baking Co.: Bramble’s baking extraordinaire Allie Smith is offering a signature menu of holiday pies that are available for pre-order by Nov. 21. Cut into festive flavors such as mulled wine pear crumble, maple bourbon pecan, brown butter pumpkin streusel, apple cheddar rye, and chocolate rosemary cranberry tart. Pickups can be made from Local Color Flowers from 4-7:30 p.m. on Nov. 27.

Eddie’s of Roland Park: In honor of its 75th anniversary year, this Roland Park mainstay is offering a full holiday feast that feeds six people for $75. The meal deal includes turkey and all the fixins’ including stuffing, mashed potatoes, and two quarts of gravy. It also comes with two sides (think options such as green beans and butternut squash) and one of Eddie’s fresh-baked pies. If you’re not feeding a crew, Eddie’s holiday catalogue has plenty of options for single orders. 5113 Roland Ave. 410-323-3656

The Charmery: This fan-favorite creamery is offering its signature ice cream pies this year. The $22 dollar treats come in inventive flavors such as spiced pumpkin caramel, brown sugar molasses pecan, and vegan sweet potato. Pre-order and pick-up at one of The Charmery’s locations in Hampden, Towson, and Union Collective. Each of the locations will be open for a few hours on Thanksgiving Day for those in need of a last-minute crowd pleaser. 801 W 36th Street Baltimore, 410-814-0493

The Corner Pantry: If you want to spend Thanksgiving at home, but would rather someone else do the cooking, this Mt. Washington go-to is a solid bet. Tick-off takeaway items on the homestyle menu of family-sized must-haves, such as brined and roasted turkey, butternut squash soup, cheddar biscuits, and pecan pie. Orders must be submitted by Saturday November 23rd, so don’t delay getting your feast in order. 6080 Falls Road, 667-308-2331

Zeke’s Coffee: Make your Thanksgiving prep a little easier—and more delicious—with an apple, pecan, or pumpkin pie handmade by Zeke’s Coffee on Harford Road. Pre-order an $18, nine-inch pie, and then pick it up at Zeke’s flagship cafe the week of Thanksgiving, or on the big day until noon. The cafe also offers a tasty brunch Thanksgiving morning featuring comforting pumpkin waffles. 4719 Harford Rd, 410-254-0122

DINING-OUT DESTINATIONS

Chez Hugo Bistro: Chef Steve Monnier is whipping up a family-style prix-fixe menu that showcases his take on all-American staples. Enjoy options including pumpkin-bacon soup, grilled turkey leg rillettes, creamed spinach, Brussels sprouts with crispy onions, and potato gratin dauphinois. Save room for signature sweets including a French apple tart and Pumpkin Pavlova with chocolate meringue and candied pecans. 206 E. Redwood St. 443-438-3002. $50.

Charleston: If you’re looking for a fine-dining selection, this award-winning restaurant offers a choice between turkey, beef short ribs, and pan-roasted wild rockfish. Bring the family for savory entrees with family style sides—including collard greens slow-cooked in ham hock broth—followed by decadent desserts. The prix-fixe menu is $85 per person. 1000 Lancaster Street, 410-332-7373

Citron: For an elegant Turkey Day option, Citron in Pikesville is offering a three-course meal with dishes such as maine lobster bisque, filet mignon, turkey, and pumpkin cheesecake. Additions include a Thanksgiving wine pairing, a simplified children’s menu, and family-style appetizers. Seatings take place from 12 p.m.-7 p.m. and the fixed menu is priced at $59 for adults and $24 for children. 2605 Quarry Lake Drive, 410-363-0900

Rusty Scupper: Pair your Thanksgiving feast with beautiful waterfront views at this Inner Harbor seafood spot. The restaurant’s annual feast will run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. offering all of the classics, but with a seafood twist. Step up to the buffet to pile on options such as mussels marinara, scallop mac and cheese, and oyster stuffing. Reservations are required for the all-you-can-eat meal, which is $58.95 per adult and $29.95 for children 10 and under. 402 Key Highway, 410-727-3678

Rye Street Tavern: This Port Covington hotspot is featuring an elevated meal of Thanksgiving staples. Guests choose an appetizer, main course, and dessert from a mouthwatering list of options. Start things off with crispy barbecue prawns or striped bass ceviche before getting to more traditional fare and finishing off with indulgent desserts including dutch apple pie. The restaurant will open from 2 p.m.- 8 p.m. with fixed menus at $70 for adults and $35 for children 10 and under. 225 E Cromwell St. 443-662-8000

Tersiguel’s: For a magnifique holiday, Tersiguel’s French Country Restaurant in Ellicott City is crafting a $60 prix-fixe featuring hearty Alsace Potato Soup, farm-fresh salads, beef beaujolais, and roast turkey leg with stuffing and gravy. 8293 Main St., Ellicott City. 410-465-4004

Topside: Overlooking historic Mt. Vernon, this stylish rooftop restaurant will highlight a special menu complete with holiday favorites from 5-9 p.m. Each meal will include cornbread with cranberry-orange relish, alongside a choice of a classic appetizer, entree, two sides, and a dessert. (Don’t miss out on the famous Pimlico Pie.) The special menu is priced at $45 per person. 101 W. Monument St. 410-727-0065

The season of giving thanks—and also gluttony—is upon us. When it comes to libations, we never tire of thinking about what goes best with America’s favorite holiday meal. The trick is finding something easy to like and easy to pair. It helps if it’s also easy on the budget, because that turkey dinner for 12 doesn’t pay for itself. We found three liquids to enjoy this time of year, and not just for Thanksgiving.

Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales “Fuego del Otoño” Sour Saison
($6 25-oz bottle, Bond Distributing)

First, let’s be clear: Jolly Pumpkin is the brewer, and this is not pumpkin beer. This is a sour ale brewed with chestnuts and spice that comports itself a bit like a light red wine. It’s remarkably balanced, neither too rich nor too hoppy. The chestnut and spice notes are subtle, and the sour acid is just enough to make this an ideal companion for autumnal foods.

Quentin Harel Beaujolais Villages “Les Grandes Terres” 2017
($22, Prestige Beverage)

The red wines of France’s Beaujolais district are delightful once one gets past the ocean of oft-mediocre “Nouveau” wines the French insist on sending our way each fall. Don’t believe us? Check out this bottle from esteemed French wine importer Kermit Lynch. Made from the Gamay grape, it bursts with red fruit tones, bright acidity, and a supple finish that will wash Thanksgiving dinner down in perfect harmony.

Two James “Catcher’s Rye” Whiskey
($49, The Country Vintner)

The first licensed distillery to operate in Detroit since Prohibition, Two James is making some of the most compelling spirits in the country. The distillery crafts this whiskey from 100 percent Michigan rye and ages it for a minimum of two years in American oak barrels. The result is an instant classic, at home in a great Manhattan but equally enjoyable with a simple cube of ice.

It was a routine physical. My 57-year old sister’s South Florida internist looked over the results of her blood work and said, “You have slightly abnormal thyroid levels. To be on the safe side, I’m going to refer you to an endocrinologist.”

Three weeks later, the soonest appointment available, she saw the doctor. “I’m glad you came in. You have nodules, that’s common. But, because two of them are large, we need to do a biopsy. Schedule an appointment with my assistant.”

Later, when I grilled her for details, she confessed, “After the word biopsy, everything else sounded like ‘wah wah wah.’”

She had to wait another three weeks for the procedure, six weeks since her appointment with the internist. I had visions of lascivious malignant cells fornicating without protection. I wanted to fly her to me in Baltimore.

During the waiting period, we talked many times a day. We spoke in code.

“How’s it going?” Code for: Are you freaking out?

“I’m okay.” I’m freaking out.

“Whatever happens—you’ll be fine.” I’m praying.

“There’s nothing worse than waiting.” I feel out of control.

“I know.” There is a lot worse.

I wasn’t supposed to have to worry about her. My sister is petite, beautiful, and fit. She drinks vegetable smoothies for breakfast and carries weights when she speed-walks. She can wear the jeans that fit her in college. Although I’m only eight years older, people have mistaken me for her mother. Nevertheless, I adore her.

Stepping into big sister mode, I became an internet expert at thyroid cancers. I learned, if we had to pick a cancer, this was a top contender—it had an excellent prognosis. But I also read stories of radiation isolation, invasions into lymph nodes, and other nasty outcomes.

I offered to fly down and hold her hand during the procedure. But she said, “It’s no big deal.” A dozen needles into her neck later, it was a little deal. Despite her attempt to fish for information, the doctor refused to bite. He said that she had to wait another week to see if the nodules were cancerous. And he added, “I don’t give results over the phone. You need to make an appointment and meet with me in my office.”

Did that mean he thought there was a problem?

During the last week of our vigil, I tried to distract her by steering our conversations to Thanksgiving. We were planning to celebrate at her house in Miami. As a practicing perfectionist, she obsessed over the menu. Should she serve a filet along with the turkey? Yes. Do we need both mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes? Yes. We were weighing Brussels sprouts versus string-bean casserole when she blurted out, “I’m telling you now, if the biopsy is positive, we’re having store-bought stuffing.”

It was her first taste of the reality of mortality.

A week later, the day of her 4 p.m. appointment with the endocrinologist, I knew she was leaving work by 2. I thought, “I shouldn’t call her. I need to give her some space.” Five minutes after two, she called me. “I’m thinking of taking a half of Xanax.”

“Why wouldn’t you? I want a whole one.”

The leaves had transitioned from greens to reds, oranges, and yellows since the day of her physical. To me, they had a dull sheen this year. During those seven weeks, I hedged before committing to plans: I wanted to be available if my sister needed me. And for seven weeks I repeated, several times a day, “She will be fine. She will be fine.”

I also felt selfish. I had indulged myself in possibilities—when so many others were dealing with actualities: dire diagnoses and loss. Nevertheless, this was my sister and it was 4 o’clock. I imagined her, squeezing her husband’s hand, trying to appear brave, as she sat in a brown vinyl arm chair across the desk from her doctor.

To escape from my illusions and burn off some energy—I took my dog for a walk. Ten minutes later, the ding of a text. I inhaled a deep breath of hope. Then read, “I’m fine. It’s negative. And he’s not concerned about the thyroid levels.”

As planned, we will have Thanksgiving at her house in Miami. We will give thanks that she is healthy; thanks for all that is good. And we will pray for the many families with tragedies covering their own holiday tables.

Once my sister sampled the precariousness of life, she could not spit out the taste. So yes, she will make the turkey, filet, and Brussels sprouts. But she’ll give herself a break and order the stuffing.

From slaving over cranberry sauce and pounding mashed potatoes to disinfecting dishes and setting the seating arrangement, hosting Thanksgiving dinner can start to feel more like a chore and less like a treat. That’s why more and more families are choosing to abandon their aprons and dine out on Turkey Day. And with decadent dishes, boundless buffets, and multi-course meals, these Baltimore restaurants are making it easy to kiss the kitchen goodbye this Thanksgiving.

The Manor Tavern: This Monkton mainstay is serving a Thanksgiving buffet with tons of seasonal favorites, including apple harvest salad, glazed sweet potatoes, mac and cheese, oven-roasted local turkey, brown sugar glazed ham, house-made cranberry sauce, roasted prime rib, and tons of assorted breads and desserts. There are seating times at 12:30, 3:00, and 5:30 p.m., and the meal is $41.95 for adults and $16.95 for children (3-12). 15819 Old York Rd., 410-771-8155

Baldwin’s Station: Feast your stomach and your eyes at this rustic restaurant overlooking the Patapsco River. Open from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Baldwin’s will serve individually plated meals, like a traditional turkey plate and other options on the fall menu. Don’t miss out on the maple leaf duck breast or the bisque made with slow-roasted squash, topped with a touch of ginger, cinnamon, and maple syrup, and garnished with apple compote, fried sage, and star anise. 7618 Main St., Sykesville, 410-795-1041

The Capital Grille: The luxurious dining room makes this steakhouse a perfect escape from jam-packed, elbow-bumping Thanksgiving dinners. The Capital Grille will serve a $42 prix-fixe meal that includes dishes like slow-roasted turkey with brioche stuffing, French green beans with Marcona almonds and cranberry pear chutney, and Sam’s special mashed potatoes. The dinner is $15 for kids, and you can add on the pumpkin cheesecake dessert for an extra $10. 500 E Pratt St.,443-703-4064

Cafe Troia: Baltimoreans flock to this Towson restaurant to satisfy all kinds of comfort food cravings. Starting at 1 p.m., Cafe Troia will host a prix-fixe Thanksgiving dinner with roasted turkey, gravy, yams, whipped potatoes, string beans, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. The meal is $40 for adults and $20 for kids, and the a la carte menu is also available for those who want to mix and match their favorite dishes. 31 Allegheny Ave., 410-337-0133

The Oregon Grille: Hop on the gravy train and head to this Hunt Valley restaurant for a Turkey Day feast. From 1-8 p.m., the restaurant will serve a special, three-course menu that consists of dishes like like butternut squash soup, turkey, pan gravy, mashed potatoes, herb stuffing, candied sweet potatoes, pumpkin cheesecake, and pecan pie. Dishes from the regular dinner menu are also available, and the three course option is $55 for adults and $35 for kids.1201 Shawan Rd., Cockeysville, 410-771-0505

Mt. Washington Tavern: Starting at 2 p.m., this neighborhood go-to will host a feast complete with everything from martinis to ‘Grandma’s’ dressing. Order from the full dinner menu with added dishes like honey-glazed ham, turkey entrees, and traditional Thanksgiving sides. Or opt for the all-you-can-eat buffet with traditional sliced turkey with gravy, sausage and vegetarian stuffing, fingerling potatoes, sautéed green beans, and tons of other family-style faves. 5700 Newbury St., 410-367-6903

Victoria Gastro Pub: This Howard County restaurant serves up pub-style dishes that never disappoint. From 11 am-9 p.m., try the prix-fixe menu and add on a la carte Thanksgiving sides. Guests choose from entrees like roast maple turkey, sweet potato gnocchi, turkey pâté de campagne, and Brussels sprouts topped with bacon, sweet chili soy vinaigrette, sesame and Sriracha aioli. Choose two courses for $32 or three courses for $42. 8201 Snowden River Parkway, Columbia, 410-750-1880

Chez Hugo: This downtown Baltimore bistro is whipping up creative twists on traditional Thanksgiving dishes. The prix-fixe Thanksgiving menu is $65 for adults and $20 for children and features delicious dishes like pumpkin and bacon soup, roasted turkey breast with hay cream gravy, sourdough stuffing, and creamed spinach with garlic, onions, and Comté cheese. 206 E Redwood St., 443-438-3002

Rusty Scupper Restaurant and Bar: From families reunions to Friendsgiving feasts, this harbor-side restaurant is perfect for large groups. The menu features traditional dishes like carved roast turkey, honey-glazed ham, and herb-crusted roast prime rib. Adding a Maryland twist, Rusty Scupper will also offer seafood-inspired dishes such as roasted salmon with crabmeat, sautéed Prince Edward Island mussels with marinara sauce, and a raw bar with fresh oysters. The buffet is $56.95 for adults and $28.95 for children (under 10), and reservations are required. 402 Key Highway, 410-727-3678

Zeke’s Coffee: This beloved Northeast Baltimore cafe is going beyond coffee this Thanksgiving. From 6 a.m.-12 p.m, guests can dig into brunch specials like chicken sliders with fried eggs, biscuits with gravy and fried eggs, apple cranberry pancakes, and flavorful maple sausage links. Pre-game your Thanksgiving the only way we know how—with more food. 4719 Harford Rd., 410-254-0122

Severn Inn: Pair scrumptious food with scenic views at this Anne Arundel County restaurant. The Thanksgiving buffet includes dishes like roasted turkey and gravy, prime rib, crab cakes with fried green tomatoes and corn salad, mashed potatoes, and macaroni and cheese. End the meal with a sweet seasonal pie in flavors like pumpkin pie, apple pie, and apple cobbler. Seating times are at 12, 2:45, and 5 p.m., and the buffet is $72.95 for adults and $26.95 for children (ages 5-12). 1993 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Annapolis, 410-349-4000

Charleston: Gather at this award-winning restaurant to celebrate with Chef Cindy Wolf’s prix-fixe Thanksgiving menu for $85 per person. Dishes to look out for include butternut squash and andouille sausage soup, braised beef short rib with yukon gold potato puree, roasted turkey breast with turkey leg confit, pecan stuffing, and roasted sweet corn. Make sure you save room for dessert with options like pecan tart with bourbon caramel, pumpkin cheesecake with gingersnap crust and cranberry compote, and southern chocolate pie with toasted meringue. 1000 Lancaster St., 410-332-7373

Tersiguel’s French Country Restaurant: This farm-to-table Ellicott City spot will be open from 12-6 p.m. on Thanksgiving day, offering a prix-fixe four course menu that is $59 for adults and $30 for children (under 10). The first course is an Alsace potato soup, complete with leeks, bacon, house-made sausage, onion, caraway, and dill. The second course features assorted marinated salads like the golden beet. And the main course includes traditional treats like roasted turkey leg and breast, smoked ham leg, stuffing, mashed potatoes with sage gravy, and cranberry sauce. 8293 Main St, Ellicott City, 410-465-4004

Blue Moon Cafe and Blue Moon Too: Family and friends unite at these Fells Point and Federal Hill favorites for a pre-Thanksgiving dinner date. Blue Moon Cafe and Blue Moon Too will be open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., and though the restaurants won’t be serving turkey, there will be enchiladas and other fun surprises in addition to their regular breakfast menus. 1621 Aliceanna St. and 1024 Light St., 410-522-3940

Rye Street Tavern: The three-course prix fixe at this Port Covington restaurant on the Sagamore Spirit distillery campus offers guests their choice of appetizer and dessert, and a main course served family style. Highlights will include an autumn salad, wood-broiled Choptank oysters, ember-roasted beets, crispy crab fritters, mashed potatoes with Sagamore Spirit whiskey-spiked gravy, and turkey sourced from Whispering Breeze farm in Taneytown that will be roasted over Maryland white oak logs. Save room for dessert with options like maple-buttermilk and black bottom pecan pie. 13 Rye St. 443-662-8000. $35-70

Wit & Wisdom: Bring the whole family to enjoy an Autumn-inspired buffet filled with favorites such as roasted marinated turkey, smoked prime rib, southern cornbread, and applewood-smoked bacon stuffing. The bottomless meal will be offered from 1-8 p.m. 200 International Drive. 410-576-5800. $45-95

Autumn means plaid shirts, trips to the pumpkin patch, falling temperatures, and colored foliage. But the best part of fall is definitely the food. And this year, Baltimore restaurants are going above and beyond pumpkin spice. From cozy casseroles and savory sweet potatoes to pumpkin pastries and roasted apples, these seasonal specials have us wishing it was October and November all year round.

Pumpkin Spice Latte-Inspired Pastries

Dooby’s: With blueberry-almond breads, pumpkin cream cheese muffins, and cranberry sage pop-tarts, Dooby’s’ new dishes incorporate some of our favorite fall flavors. The pastries are made in house every morning, so grab one while they’re hot (and before they’re gone.) 802 N. Charles St., 410-609-3162

Miss Shirley’s Cafe: Miss Shirley’s pumpkin-spice chocolate chip pancakes are one of a kind. They arrive garnished with cream cheese icing and spiced pumpkin seeds, and dusted with a cloud of powdered sugar for good measure. Various locations including 750 E. Pratt St., 410-528-5373

Stone Mill Bakery: This Green Spring Station bakery’s homemade goods and breads make it a local favorite, especially when the temperature starts to drop. This fall, check out the pumpkin cream cheese swirl bars for a sweet snack. 10751 Falls Rd., 410-821-1358

Iron Rooster: Southern classics meet fall-inspired flavors on Iron Rooster’s seasonal menu. Iron Rooster’s ooey-gooey pumpkin-filled ‘Roostarts’—aka homemade pop tarts—are the perfect snack for any fall-harvest fanatic. Various locations including 3721 Boston St., 410-762-2100

The Corner Pantry: The buckwheat pumpkin pancakes, topped with a hefty dollop of apple butter, at this Mt. Washington staple are the ultimate November brunch entree. Pair the tasty hotcakes with The Corner Pantry’s autumn sunrise juice, a mix of carrot, orange, and apple, for a truly satisfying spread. 6080 Falls Rd., 667-308-2331

Autumn Aperitifs

Johnny’s Restaurant: One sip of Johnny’s smoked fig Manhattan will make you say, “pumpkin-spice-who?” The drink is created with house-made brown sugar, fig, and black-tea syrup, and then garnished with a bacon-wrapped cherry. 4800 Roland Ave., 410-773-0777

Baby’s on Fire Cafe: For a morning pick-me-up, order a glass of this cafe’s house-made mulled apple cider. From vintage-loving hipsters to apple orchard admirers, everyone can find something they love at the Mt. Vernon hangout that offers bins of vinyl and fresh pastries. 1010 Morton St., 443-885-9892

Order & Chaos Coffee: If you can’t say sayonara to Pumpkin Spice Lattes just yet, try this cafe’s upgraded version. The next-level PSL includes touches of turmeric and pairs perfectly with a buttery cranberry scone. 1410 Key Highway, 410-244-1111

Comfort-Food Cravings

The Turn House: The Turn House takes fall flavor seriously. The apple and prosciutto toast includes apple butter, Honeycrisp apple slices, prosciutto, and Grafton cheddar. The dish pairs perfectly with a slice of the blueberry cornbread. 11130 Willow Bottom Dr., 410-740-2096

Water for Chocolate: This Fells Point eatery serves up options for savory snackers and sweet tooth nibblers alike. Try the sweet potato bread pudding with moonshine-crème anglaise or the sweet potato polenta. Warning: you might have to unbutton your jeans. 1841 E Lombard St., 410-891-2595

Birroteca: Birroteca’s fall menu marries the taste of Italian delicacies with the warmth of comfort food. The pumpkin gnocchi, topped with pancetta, caramelized onions, and duck liver fig sauce, will definitely satisfy those home-cooked hankerings. 1520 Clipper Rd., 443-708-1934

Atwater’s: Atwater’s is known to bring their A-game when it comes to seasonal treats. Both the apple-cranberry crisp and the Num Pang Salad, made with roasted cauliflower, peanut red cabbage slaw, and ginger eggplant, serve up some serious flavor. 2905 Whittington Ave., 410-644-3435

Sweater-Weather Sweets

The Charmery: Despite the dropping temperature, we can’t deny our excitement for The Charmery’s fall lineup. This year, the menu features flavors like spiced pumpkin, apple butter, butternut squash and cloves, and apple cider sorbet. Various locations including 1700 W 41st St., 443-759-4905

Gunther & Co.: This spice cake from Gunther & Co. practically screams Thanksgiving. Accompanied by pumpkin mousse, roasted butternut squash, cardamom creme anglaise, crispy sage, and maple ice cream, this decadent dessert is a must-order. 3650 Toone St., 443-869-6874

The Food Market: The loaded baked sweet potatoes at this Hampden hotspot arrive bursting with torched marshmallow, chipotle honey, pecans, bacon, and cinnamon sugar. And if you’re still itching for more, order the hand-whipped pumpkin cheesecake topped with cream, graham cracker crumble, and candy corn. Need we say more? 1017 W 36th St., 410-366-0606

Ground & Griddled: We are fall-ing in love with this cafe’s sweet potato casserole. The crispy crust is best served warm, and the inside is loaded with organic sweet potatoes, dusted with spices, and topped with brown sugar pecan butter. 301 W 29th St., 443-681-1901

If there’s one thing that can bring us together in 2017, it has to be the celebration of gluttony on Thanksgiving, right? Like the rest of us, Ravens players will enjoy devouring all sorts of food this Thanksgiving. So for The 15 this month, we asked Baltimore Ravens players one very simple question. 

“What’s on your Thanksgiving menu this year?”

1. Offensive Lineman Luke Bowanko
“I just learned what dressing is last year, so a bunch of dressing. Sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, all the casseroles. Or dressings! That’s what’s on my menu. For dessert, I’ll probably go with some more dressing, sweet potato casserole with some ice cream on it. [Laughs] No, I’m a big pie guy. Apple pie, blueberry pie, not a big pumpkin pie guy. But Thanksgiving is pie season. I’m all in on pies.”

For more on what makes up the Thanksgiving spread for these Ravens players—including Justin Tucker, C.J. Mosley, and Lardarius Webb—read the full story at PressBoxOnline.com. 

THUNDERBIRD AMERICAN INDIAN DANCERS
11/2. Goucher College, Kraushaar Auditorium, 1021 Dulaney Valley Rd., Towson. 10:15 a.m. & 12 p.m. $9. In bright feathers and embroidered clothing, this lively group will dance and sing in the Native-American tradition.

HARVESTING THE PAST
11/12. Maryland Historical Society, 201 W. Monument St. 1 p.m. Free-$9. Bring the kids to learn about Maryland’s Native-American farming practices with hands-on activities.

THANKFUL FOR TURKEYS
11/12. Lake Roland Nature Center, 1000 Lakeside Dr. 10 a.m. Free. Drop in to the nature center to investigate turkey artifacts and make a craft. 

NATIVE AMERICANS OF MARYLAND 
11/12. Cromwell Valley Park, 2002 Cromwell Bridge Rd., Parkville. 1 p.m. Free. Try out the same tools that local Native Americans used to hunt, fish, and grow crops.

LET’S TALK TURKEY 
11/18. Cromwell Valley Park, 2002 Cromwell Bridge Rd., Parkville. 1 p.m. $2-4. Meet a live turkey and learn about the bird that became a symbol for Thanksgiving. 

THANKSGIVING CRAFTS 
11/20. Enoch Pratt Free Library, 3801 Erdman Ave. 5:30 p.m. Free. Grab a piece of paper and pair of scissors to make a classic hand turkey or other Thanksgiving-inspired craft.

TROT THE TRAIL 5K
11/19. Herring Run Park, 3800 Belair Rd. 8 a.m. $5. Prep for the big Thursday gobble with a bright-and-early run on Sunday morning.

Y TURKEY TROT CHARITY 5K
11/23. Stieff Silver Building, 810 Wyman Park Dr. 8:30 a.m. $5-42. Burn some pre-feast calories with a 5K for no-guilt slices of pumpkin pie. 

GOBBLE COBBLE TURKEY TROT
11/23. MAC Harbor East, 655 President St. 8 a.m. $35-40. Grab your sneakers and hit the city streets for this festive 5K through the Inner Harbor before the big meal.