Oakland International Airport Expects Surge in Thanksgiving Travelers, Offering New Amenities and Holiday Cheer

Published on November 20, 2025

Oakland International Airport is gearing up for a busy Thanksgiving season with new dining, shopping, parking options, and festive cheer to enhance travelers’ experience.

Oakland’s San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK) is gearing up for the bustling Thanksgiving holiday, expecting to see nearly a quarter of a million passengers during the travel period from Friday, November 21, through Sunday, November 30. To ensure a smooth and festive experience, the airport has gone all out with decorations and enhancements throughout its terminals, creating a cheerful holiday atmosphere for travelers.

“We wish travelers and our Bay Area community a very happy Thanksgiving,” said Port of Oakland Director of Aviation Craig Simon. “As OAK will be busy for the holidays, passengers are encouraged to arrive at the airport early, reserve parking ahead of time, and check in with their airline before coming to the airport.”

With an increase in foot traffic, OAK advises passengers to plan accordingly. For domestic flights, travelers should arrive at least 2 hours before their departure time, and for international flights, a 3-hour window is recommended. Given the unpredictability of air travel during the holidays, passengers are also encouraged to check their flight status with airlines in case of delays or cancellations before heading to the airport.

Parking is a priority during the busy season, and securing a spot in advance is highly recommended. OAK offers parking reservations to guarantee entry to the parking lots. Travelers booking for 4 or more days can expect rates of $19 per day in the Daily Lot or $14 per day in the Economy Lot, along with a one-time $1.99 booking fee. Those without reservations should monitor parking availability through OAK’s website, where lot occupancy rates and urgent alerts will be posted. More details and reservation options are available at iflyoak.com/park.

In addition to these practical measures, the airport is making the holiday experience even more enjoyable with several new concessions. Travelers can now enjoy a selection of fresh dining options, including Forge Pizza and District, both in Terminal 2. For those with a sweet tooth, Alameda-based Donut Petit has launched a pop-up shop in Terminal 2’s baggage claim area, open daily from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

For passengers looking to pick up a special holiday gift, OAK’s shopping options include a variety of unique stores, many featuring products from local Bay Area businesses. In Terminal 1, visitors can check out Roll East, Little Main St. @ OAK, Lake Merritt Essentials, and Oakland Duty Free. Meanwhile, Terminal 2 offers Oakland Supply Co., Shop the Town, and Hudson Nonstop, perfect for those seeking something local to bring home or share during the holidays.

With its festive spirit and enhanced services, Oakland International is ready to welcome travelers and ensure a seamless, memorable holiday experience. Whether flying out of the Bay Area or catching a connecting flight, OAK is prepared for a season of busy but joyful travel.

In conclusion, Oakland International Airport is fully prepared for the Thanksgiving holiday rush, offering passengers a variety of new amenities and services to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. From festive decorations and expanded dining options to convenient parking reservations and unique local shopping, OAK is committed to enhancing the holiday journey for all travelers. By planning ahead with parking reservations and taking advantage of the airport’s new offerings, passengers can make the most of their time at OAK and enjoy a stress-free start to their holiday travels.