Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and while most people are busy planning their turkey feasts and family gatherings, we know golf enthusiasts are always looking for ways to sneak a little time on the course—or at least incorporate their love of the game into the holiday spirit. At Upstate Golf Rx, we’ve cooked up a fun list of ways golfers can make this Thanksgiving extra special while keeping the golf vibes strong.

1. Start the Day with a Turkey Trot Scramble

Why wait until Black Friday to hit the course? Many local golf clubs host “Turkey Trot Scrambles” the morning of Thanksgiving. It’s a casual, lighthearted format that’s perfect for burning off some calories before diving into pumpkin pie. Grab your family or golf buddies and make it a holiday tradition!

Not playing in a scramble?

Create your own Thanksgiving challenge at the driving range. Try a “closest to the pin” competition, or see who can land the longest drive—winner gets the first slice of pie.

2. Set Up a Backyard Golf Challenge

Transform your backyard into a mini-golf paradise! Use chipping nets, buckets, or even household items (hello, laundry baskets) to create a fun course for everyone to enjoy.

Bonus idea: Turkey Targets!

Set up makeshift “turkey” targets and see who can hit them first. It’s a fun way to introduce golf to non-golfing family members and keep everyone entertained between football games.

3. Be Grateful for Golf Gifts

Thanksgiving marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, so why not drop a few hints about what you’d love for your golf game? Whether it’s new clubs, a GPS rangefinder, or a gift card for lessons at Upstate Golf Rx, now’s the perfect time to let your family know how they can make your golf dreams come true this holiday season.

Treat yourself:

Can’t wait for the gifts? Schedule a post-Thanksgiving lesson or fitness session to work off those holiday calories while sharpening your game.

4. Reflect on Your Golf Year

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, and there’s plenty to be thankful for in your golf game. Take a moment to think about:

• The best round you played this year.
• The new skill you mastered (hello, flop shot!).
• The friends you made on the course.

Plan for 2025:

Write down a few golf goals for next year. Whether it’s lowering your handicap, improving your short game, or finally breaking 90, set your sights on making 2025 your best golf year yet.

5. Create a “Golfsgiving” Feast

This one’s for the creative chefs in the family! Incorporate your love of golf into the Thanksgiving table. Use golf ball-themed place cards, or serve appetizers like “par-fect” cheese balls.

Dessert idea:

Bake cookies shaped like golf balls or a cake decorated like a putting green. It’s a fun way to share your passion for the game with family and friends.

Bonus Tip: Black Friday on the Course

Don’t forget that the day after Thanksgiving can be one of the best times to snag a tee time. While everyone else is shopping, you could be enjoying a quiet round on the course. Check with your local club for deals or events happening this weekend.

Give Thanks, Then Hit the Links

This Thanksgiving, let’s give thanks for the game that brings us joy, challenges, and a lifetime of memories. Whether you’re sneaking in a quick round, dreaming about golf gifts, or sharing your love of the game with family, make golf part of your holiday celebration.

From all of us at Upstate Golf Rx, have a happy, safe, and birdie-filled Thanksgiving!

Need a Post-Holiday Tune-Up?

Schedule a lesson or fitness session with us to get ready for your next round. Contact us at 864-361-4120 or visit us at 8000 Pelham Road, Greenville, SC.

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