SECOND Wind

Thanksgiving holds a special place in the hearts of many, a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. For those of us living in Mazatlán, this holiday takes on a unique flavor—blending cherished traditions with the vibrant culture of this coastal paradise.

Mazatlán may not have the crisp autumn air or fallen leaves associated with Thanksgiving in the U.S., but it offers something equally special: warm breezes, golden sunsets, and the rhythmic sound of waves crashing on the shore. Instead of bundling up in layers, we celebrate in flip-flops and sundresses, often gathering outdoors to soak in the beauty of the day.

As an expat, one of the joys of Thanksgiving is recreating traditional dishes with a local twist. Grocery stores like Soriana and Mega stock holiday essentials—turkeys, stuffing mix, and cranberries. However, some ingredients may require a bit of creativity or a trip to specialty stores. Sweet potatoes, for instance, might be swapped for camotes, a local variety that’s just as delicious. And pies? The abundance of fresh tropical fruits makes for unique and memorable desserts.

This year, my before Thanksgiving will be extra special as my daughter and grandson visit from the U.S. for a day on a cruise ship. Taking my daughter and grandson around Mazatlán is such a joy, as I get to share the charm of this vibrant city through their eyes. From a morning drive along the Malecón, where the ocean breeze sets the tone for the day, to exploring the historic Centro with its colorful architecture and lively plazas, every moment feels like a new adventure. We’ll have to stop for ice cream at one of the local heladerías and watch as my grandson marvels at the street performers and musicians in the plaza and all the shopping. Whether it’s the simple delight of tasting churros from a street vendor or watching the sun dip below the horizon from Olas Altas, sharing these experiences with them makes Mazatlán even more special.

For me, it’s not just about the food—it’s about the togetherness. Living far from family can make holidays bittersweet, but moments like these remind me how grateful I am for their visits. It’s a chance to share my stories of my life here with them, from morning walks along the Malecón to evening strolls in the plaza.

Thanksgiving is ultimately about gratitude, and living in Mazatlán makes it easy to feel thankful. The kindness of the locals, the beauty of the ocean, and the slower pace of life all contribute to a deep sense of appreciation. Every day here feels like a gift, but Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on that even more.

This year, I’m grateful for my family in the states, for the friendships I’ve built in this community, and for the chance to call Mazatlán home. Whether we’re watching fireworks over the bay or simply sharing stories around the dinner table, it’s a reminder that the essence of Thanksgiving isn’t tied to a specific location or even a particular meal—it’s about the people we share it with and the memories we create together.

Wishing everyone, near and far, a heartfelt and happy Thanksgiving!