For many, Thanksgiving is a time to come together, share a meal, and feel connected. If you’re in Northeast Georgia and looking for a free meal this holiday, there are plenty of options. Churches, community centers, and local organizations are hosting Thanksgiving dinners to ensure everyone has a chance to celebrate.
Here’s a breakdown of where you can find a warm meal and warm hearts this Thanksgiving.
Banks County
Nicholson Baptist Church
- What: Free Thanksgiving Meal
- When: Wednesday, November 27, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. (while supplies last)
- Details: Dine-in or carry-out options are available. The meal will be served in the Fellowship Hall.
- Location: 71 Church Street, Nicholson, GA
City of Baldwin
- What: Thanksgiving Pot Luck Dinner
- When: Thursday, November 28, at 4:30 p.m.
- Details: Call 470-208-9842 for information about bringing a dish.
- Location: 165 Willingham Avenue, Baldwin, GA
Clarke County
Chuck’s Fish of Athens
- What: Third Annual Thanksgiving Feast
- When: Thanksgiving Day, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Details: Free meal for all. Donations will benefit Project Safe.
- Location: Chuck’s Fish, Athens, GA
Weaver D’s Delicious Fine Foods
- What: Feed the Hungry Thanksgiving Day Dinner
- When: Thanksgiving Day, doors open at 12 p.m.; food served at 2 p.m.
- Details: Hosted by Lady B from WYZI 95.9 FM with live performances by Jennifer Browning and Gilda Smith.
- Location: 1016 East Broad Street, Athens, GA
Sheats Social Services and The Sparrow’s Nest
- What: Thanksgiving Dinner
- When: Wednesday, November 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Details: Free meals, hygiene products, and health screenings. Donations of hams, turkeys, and hygiene items are welcome at the Athens-Clarke County Library and Bethel Baptist Church in Watkinsville.
- Location: 745 Prince Ave, Athens, GA
Food Bank of Northeast Georgia
- What: Pantry and mobile food distribution
- Details: Use the Food Bank’s website to find pantries near you. Donations are also welcome; $1 can provide three balanced meals.
Habersham County
Cornelia Community House
- What: 7th Annual Cornelia Community Thanksgiving
- When: Thursday, November 28, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Details: First-come, first-served seating. Delivery and carry-out options available.
- Location: 181 Larkin Street, Cornelia, GA
- Contacts: Peaches Cafe (762-285-0098) or Billy Jenkins (706-499-0120)
First Presbyterian Church
- What: 6th Annual Thanksgiving Day Dinner
- When: Thursday, November 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Details: Free for all. Volunteers and turkey donations are needed.
- Location: 181 Jefferson Street, Clarkesville, GA
- Contact: Eric Holbrooks (706-968-6993)
The Habersham Soup Kitchen
- What: Thanksgiving Meal
- When: Thursday, November 28, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Details: Hosted by Bill and LeeAnn Waller. All are welcome.
- Location: 236 Level Grove Rd, Cornelia, GA
Hall County
Cracker Barrel
- What: Thanksgiving Meals
- When: Open Thanksgiving Day, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Location: 4758 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford, GA
- Contact: 770-831-5539
Denny’s
- What: Thanksgiving Meals
- When: Open 24 hours on Thanksgiving Day
- Location: 1701 Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA
- Contact: 678-971-4540
Final Thoughts
From community centers to local restaurants, there’s a Thanksgiving table ready for everyone in Northeast Georgia. Whether you’re in need or simply looking to connect with others, these meals are a reminder of the kindness and generosity that make the holiday season special.
