Seeking Refuge from MAGA Thanksgiving, Newcomer Finds Warm Welcome in San Francisco

When a recent San Francisco transplant turned to Reddit seeking help to avoid spending Thanksgiving alone, the city’s residents responded with an outpouring of kindness, advice, and invitations.

The original post, shared by someone who had just moved back to San Francisco, explained their predicament:

“I don’t have any family or friends in San Francisco as I just moved back to the city. I don’t want to fly back to Pennsylvania as my family is heavily MAGA and I am definitely NOT,” the Reddit user wrote. “I think everything in SF is going to be closed. My plan B is maybe to go hiking, but I don’t really want to spend it alone. Any advice?”

The response was overwhelmingly supportive, reflecting the inclusive and resourceful spirit of San Francisco.

Dozens of locals chimed in, offering seats at their dinner tables, recommending activities, and highlighting the city’s unique ways to celebrate the holiday.

Some suggested volunteering at organizations like Glide Memorial Church and St. Anthony’s in the Tenderloin, where helping those in need could also provide a sense of connection and purpose.

Others pointed out that many restaurants and bars in the city remain open during the holiday, with Chinatown, Mission eateries, and iconic spots like Tommy’s Joynt and the Bell Tower providing welcoming options for a Thanksgiving meal.

One commenter praised the Bell Tower for its friendly atmosphere, recommending sitting at the bar to make new friends. “Barbi, the owner, is amazing. Even if she’s not there, the staff are always welcoming,” they wrote.

Another suggested the Mission bar Kilowatt, which opens at 5 p.m. and hosts a community Thanksgiving feast complete with turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.

“Bring a dish to share, and we’ll provide the rest,” Kilowatt announced on social media, adding that holiday movies, free pool, and hot spiked cider would keep the night festive.

For those looking for more casual gatherings, others mentioned a Friendsgiving potluck at Dolores Park, expected to draw fellow away-from-home folks.

A Wednesday pre-Thanksgiving meetup at House of Shields was also recommended, offering a chance to connect with locals before the holiday.

Some Redditors highlighted the joys of a quieter city during the holidays. “Holidays in the city are so relaxing. Half the city is gone, no crowds, no lines, parking you need … it’s one of the hidden joys of San Francisco living,” one person wrote, encouraging the newcomer to embrace the unique charm of an urban holiday.

The thread captured the essence of San Francisco as a city of inclusivity and alternative traditions. “San Francisco is a vortex of people who don’t fit in elsewhere,” one commenter, Travis Snyder, noted.

He encouraged the poster to explore the aspects of the city that resonate with them, adding, “If you keep engaging with whatever makes this city right for you, you’ll find your people.”

Through dozens of replies, San Franciscans showcased their city’s spirit of community and generosity, turning what could have been a lonely holiday into an opportunity to connect, celebrate, and feel at home.