Valerie Bertinelli, the celebrity chef, has opened up about her unconventional Thanksgiving plans this year, revealing that she will be hitting the road to spend the holiday with her son, Wolfgang Van Halen, during his Mammoth tour. In a recent interview with PEOPLE at the 2025 Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, Bertinelli shared how her Thanksgiving celebrations have evolved over the years, with recent holidays being spent in various cities with her son’s band and family.
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Bertinelli reminisced about past Thanksgivings, including one in Milan with Alter Bridge where there was not a turkey in sight. She also recalled last year’s dinner at a Houlihan’s in Secaucus, New Jersey, where the group ended up sitting at the bar due to a full restaurant. Despite the unconventional settings, Bertinelli expressed how much fun she had during these non-traditional celebrations with her loved ones. This year, she anticipates being in Kansas City for Thanksgiving, following her son’s tour bus wherever it may take them.
Excited about the upcoming holiday season, Bertinelli also shared her plans for downtime in December, looking forward to quality family and animal time after travelling extensively. Additionally, she is gearing up for the release of her forthcoming memoir, ‘Getting Naked’, scheduled for March 2206. The book cover, featuring Bertinelli stripped down in her living room, was her own unique idea which she decided to bring to life with the support of her trusted team.
As Bertinelli prepares for more episodes of The Drew Barrymore Show, where she serves as a lifestyle expert, she reflects on the personal journey depicted in her memoir and the process of baring it all, both physically and emotionally. She highlights the significance of the support she received from her close-knit team during the photoshoot for the book cover, emphasizing the bond and collaboration that made the experience memorable for her.
The candid discussion with Bertinelli shed light on her unconventional yet heartwarming approach to Thanksgiving and the holiday season, emphasising the value of cherishing time with loved ones regardless of the setting. Her story serves as a reminder that traditions can evolve and adapt to life’s changes, while still holding the essence of togetherness and celebration. As she continues to navigate through her busy schedule and creative projects, Bertinelli’s openness and authenticity shine through, resonating with her audience on a personal level.
Valerie Bertinelli’s journey of embracing new traditions and finding joy in unexpected moments reflects a sense of resilience and adaptation that many can relate to, especially during the holiday season. Her willingness to share personal experiences, challenges, and successes in her upcoming memoir adds another layer to her public persona, offering a deeper insight into her life beyond the spotlight. As she looks ahead to the festive season and the release of her memoir, Bertinelli’s story serves as an inspiration for embracing change, staying true to oneself, and finding happiness in the present moment.