Turkey Trots happening on Thanksgiving Day 2022 in San Diego

Get ready to run into this holiday season.

We tip our hats to those who move their feet before feasting on Thanksgiving Day. | Photo via ThanksgivingRun.org

We tip our hats to those who move their feet before feasting on Thanksgiving Day. | Photo via ThanksgivingRun.org

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Yes, Thanksgiving Day is for feasting (maybe even a little overstuffing, don’t judge) — but in San Diego, it’s also a day to get up early and move your feet. Many of our local communities are hosting early-morning turkey trots that benefit the good work of local organizations. Here’s your list.

Father Joe’s Villages Thanksgiving 5K

Thursday, Nov. 24 | 6:30-11:30 a.m. | Balboa Park
San Diego’s longest-running Thanksgiving Day run returns with a familiar mission: to raise money to help feed the homeless through Father Joe’s Villages’ meal program.

👟 What to know:

  • Fun costumes are encouraged (this goes for pets, too).
  • It’s family-friendly + pet-friendly
  • Want to donate rather than run? You can do that here.
    A turkey mascot in Balboa Park

    It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s a turkey (trot) in the heart of Balboa Park | Photo via ThanksgivingRun.org

Coronado 5K Turkey Trot

Thursday, Nov. 24 | 8-11 a.m. | Tidelands Park in Coronado
All net proceeds from this 5K benefit Rady Children’s Hospital.

👟 What to know:

  • Registration may be closed, but you can still register for a virtual run.
  • Running not your speed? Make a donation here.

Encinitas Turkey Trot

Thursday, Nov. 24 | 7 a.m. | Coast Highway 101
This route — a 5K or 10K — starts under the “Encinitas” sign + boasts sweeping views of the Pacific Coast.

👟 What to know:

  • Get there early, but the 10K starts at 7:30 a.m. and the 5K starts at 8 a.m.
  • Supports VANC + “Thanksgiving Meals in a Basket,” programs that helps military families and veterans.
  • Register ahead of time or on the day of the race for this one.

O’Side Turkey Trot

Thursday, Nov. 24 | 6-10 a.m. | Oceanside Civic Center
Running, live entertainment, and a costume contest round-out the fun at this run, which supports the Oceanside School + other nonprofits.

👟 What to know:

  • Parking is free in all city lots until 11 a.m. on Thanksgiving.
  • Just want to donate? You can do that here.

Thank You Run

Thursday, Nov. 24 | 7:30 a.m. | 4S Ranch Community Park

Adults can run 5K and kids will trot 1K to support Helen’s Closet — an organization providing comfort equipment to those with ALS.

👟 What to know:

  • Registration + the starting point is at 4S Ranch Sports Park.
  • Not up for a run? You can donate here.

Crown Point Turkey Trot

Thursday, Nov. 24 | 7 a.m. | Crown Point Park

Kick off your Thanksgiving with a scenic 5K hosted by lululemon UTC. Walk or run by the water before digging in to Thanksgiving dinner.

👟 What to know:

  • Participation is totally free.
  • If you’re able, bring canned goods — there will be food drive benefiting San Diego Food Bank.

Turkey Ruck

Friday, Nov. 25 | 7 a.m. | Liberty Station

Join the San Diego Triton Ruck Club for a post-feast workout at Liberty Station. All are welcome to get moving, just meet outside the Corvette Diner.

👟 What to know:

  • There is a 7 a.m. ruck workout before the 8 a.m. 5K turkey trot — feel free to participate in one or both.
  • The workout can accommodate all levels.
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