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.
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.