Hello Jessica!
Welcome to planDisney! It sounds like you have been going through the same issues I have been having with booking dining for Thanksgiving weekend.
Disneyland Dining Reservations open for booking up to 60 days in advance, but not always right at the 60 day mark, and it seems that reservations are being released in batches.
I had been stalking the reservations page daily since my 60-day mark and found no openings. I do sometimes use a service called MouseDining where you can set up a free email alert when a reservation at your preferred location and time opens up. I had this set up for
Blue Bayou Restaurant, and I did receive an alert that came in very late this past Wednesday, October 6, 2021. Since Indiana is in the Eastern Time Zone, I was regrettably asleep when this email came and I was unable to secure the reservation I was hoping for. But this does tell me that as of a few days ago, reservations are open and that Blue Bayou Restaurant is not closed the week of Thanksgiving. I was able to grab a few reservations at other locations that weekend. I plan to check back regularly for cancelations, and I recommend you do as well. You never know when another Guest’s plans might change!
Depending on the size of your party and needs, you may also want to check for reservations at
Cafe Orleans. While it doesn’t have quite the same magical atmosphere, it does also serve the same
Chicken Gumbo and famous Monte Cristo Sandwich. You can also enjoy a Mint Julep along with your meal, just as you can at Blue Bayou. This is where I have my family booked right now, as I continue to check for cancelations at Blue Bayou Restaurant.
Sending you pixie dust Jessica, for that perfect dining reservation. And say hello if you see me at Disneyland over that weekend! (Ideally when both of us are dining at Blue Bayou Restaurant!)
- Kate