2024 California Thanksgiving Turkey Trots, Runs and more

Thanksgiving is a day of watching football games, over-eating big meals and closing all the stores the day before Black Friday shopping frenzy. An amazing and popular event has sprung out of the need for healthier living in what is traditionally considered a day of binge. Turkey Trots and Turkey Runs poke fun at the favored Thanksgiving meal as people take to the streets and paths to exercise. Here are some events we've found throughout the State!

ALAMEDA: Thanksgiving Turkey Dip or Roll November 28, 2024. Starts at 7:30 a.m. You can swim in the pool or do a 5K or 1 mile run. Swims at Emma Hood Swim Center and Encinal Swim Center (30 minute swim time). Registration: $6, alamedaca.gov

ANAHEIM: Run Anaheim Turkey Trot 5K November 24, 2024, 6:30 a.m. opens for registration
East of JT SCHMIDTs, 2610 E Katella Ave. South of Honda Center.   Anaheim, CA US 92806
$, carenwareevents.com 
This is a family friendly event where you can run fast, jog, trot, walk, or enjoy a nice stroll on this flat scenic course. Come dressed in a theme or in running attire.

APPLE VALLEY: Turkey Run 5K Walk, 5/10K Run on November 23, 2024, 8-11 a.m.
Town Hall Recreation Center
Apple Valley, CA
 $21-25 (walkers are free), applevalley.org

ARROYO GRANDE: Turkey Trot. This event is a fun run for kids only! November 17, 2024, 1-4 p.m.  Registration at 1 p.m. - Races begin at 2 p.m. Grades: Preschool - 8th Grade $  Location: Arroyo Grande High School Track 495 Valley Road in Arroyo Grande Divisions: Girls and boys will run the same distance and will compete separately. $5, arroyogrande.org

BELMONT SHORE (LONG BEACH): Turkey Trot 5 & 10 K Run November 28, 2024, 7:30-10 a.m. approx.
Annual beach location running event on Thanksgiving Day is a fundraiser for causes. No native American costumes. Registration $40-45 approx. is online or in person. See justinrudd.com | facebook.com/LongBeachTurkeyTrot

BENICIA: 'Hand Up' Thanksgiving Turkey Trot & Costume Contest November 28, 2024, 7:30 a.m. registration. Costume Contest 8 a.m. and Trot at 8:30 a.m. Location: Benicia Community Park, 540 Rose Drive, Benicia, CA. $30, beniciaturkeytrot.com

BIG BEAR LAKE: Turkey Trot November 28, 2024, 9 a.m.
Meadow Park
41220 Park Ave.
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
$54-64 approx., bigbearturkeytrot.com 
Big Bear Turkey Trot and Costume Contest includes 3 mile, 6 mile, and 9 mile Road Runs on Thanksgiving Day. The course is a relatively flat 3 mile loop through the neighborhood of Eagle Point, with 6 mile runners completing 2 laps and 9 mile runners completing 3, making it easy for all abilities to participate.

CLAREMONT: Claremont Sunrise Rotary Turkey Trot November 28, 2024, 7:30 a.m.
$42.50-60 approx., runsignup.com
This race starts and finishes at Claremont Depot, 200 W. 1st Street, Claremont, CA. Last year there were 1,800 runners! Sunrise Rotary sponsors event with proceeds benefiting many community programs.

CONCORD: Concord Turkey Trot 5K Run Walk  November 28, 2024, 8 a.m.
Newhall Park
1351 Newhall Parkway
Concord, CA
$30-45 approx., runsignup.com
 Diablo Valley Federal Credit Union (DVFCU) is pleased to welcome you to Concord Turkey Trot, a 5K run/walk benefiting Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa. Capped at 1,500 participants, this is a USATF Sanctioned event.

CORONADO:  Coronado 5K Turkey Trot  Thursday, November 28, 2024, 8 a.m. Tidelands Park, 2000 Mullinex Dr. Coronado, CA 92118. $54 approx. facebook.com/coronadoturkeytrot or runsignup.com
Coronado Unit of the Rady Children's Hospital Auxiliary. All net proceeds benefit Rady Children's Hospital.

DANA POINT Turkey Trot 5 & 10K Race and Costume Contest November 28, 2023, 6-11 a.m.
Dana Point Harbor
34624 Golden Lantern
Dana Point, California 92629
turkeytrot.com
$56-78 approx.
Celebrating 47 years in 2024! The Dana Point California Thanksgiving Day Run with more than 10,000 participants is one of America's most scenic coastal runs hosted by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. Tour the beautiful beach, majestic cliffs and coves of Dana Point. Enjoy pounding surf, rugged cliffs, and cool ocean breezes as you sail through the Dana Point Marina, Doheny State Park and pass the Historic Tallship Pilgrim moored in Dana Point Harbor. From beginners to elite runners, this event is for everyone!

DAVIS: Davis Turkey Trot Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, 2 Mile, 1 Mile, and Kids Fun Runs November 23, 2024, 8 a.m.
Annual Turkey Trot at Civic Center Field, Davis, CA.  runsignup.com

DUARTE: Turkey Trot Workout November 20, 2024, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at Duarte Fitness Center, Gym & Competition Pool. Get ready for a fun and effective Pre-Thanksgiving workout that combines our group aerobics dry land with our water fitness and exercise group classes. This workout is perfect for all fitness levels and is a great way to keep active and burn some calories during the holiday season. $5, accessduarte.com

ELK GROVE: Gobble Wobble November 28, 2024, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. 
California Correctional Health
8280 Longleaf Dr.
Elk Grove, CA
$, elkgrovegobblewobble.itsyourrace.com
Start your Thanksgiving morning with a 5K or 10K run, and bring the kids for their own ¼ mile fun run. Elk Grove's Thanksgiving morning tradition has a new name and new beneficiary Chicks in Crisis. The Gobble Wobble Run continues the run event, but now benefits a local charity. 

ENCINITAS: Turkey Trot 5K/10K November 28, 2024, 7:30 a.m.
D Street & S Coast Highway 101
Encinitas, CA
$58-90 approx., encinitasturkeytrot.org
Run or walk on Coast Highway and take in early morning views of the Pacific Ocean during the 5K or 10K Encinitas Turkey Trot. Event includes a Costume Contest with prizes. Parking is available at the Encinitas Library, Encinitas City Hall, Coaster Station, Moonlight Beach, and surface streets on 2nd and 3rd Street.EUREKA: Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk November 28, 2024, 9 a.m.
Downtown Eureka
2nd & F Streets
Eureka, CA
$15-20 approx., eurekamainstreet.org | eurekaca.gov
5K Race begins at 2nd & F Streets - starts & finishes at the Gazebo. Proceeds help support the Cross Country/Track & Field programs of Acata High School and College of the Redwoods. Division winners each receive a pie in honor of Thanksgiving Day.

FAIRFIELD: Thanksgiving Day Solano 10K, 5K, Kids Run Turkey Trot  November 28, 2024, 8 a.m. Community Challenge and Costume Contest with benefit for Meals on Wheels and Suisun Kroc Center. Other race-day activities include food booths, awards and other fun activities for the entire family. Location: Solano Community College, 4000 Suisun Valley Rd., Fairfield, CA. $35-50, solanoturkeytrot.org

FOLSOM: Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk & 10K Run November 28, 2024, 8:30 a.m.
Folsom Lion's Park / Rodeo Park (Folsom Zoo/Library)
200 Stafford Street, Folsom, CA 95630
Folsom, CA 95630
$30-40,  folsomturkeytrot.com 
Limited space, typically sells out

FREMONT: Quarry 5K, 10K and Half Marathon Turkey Run November 30, 2024
Quarry Lakes Regional Park
Fremont, CA
$58-109, approx., brazenracing.com
Thanksgiving themed costumes are encouraged for adults and children

GLEN ELLEN: Turkey Waddle Hike November 29, 2024, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at Jack London State Historic Park
2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, CA
Turkey Waddle Hike through mixed evergreens on to the majestic Ancient Redwood is moderate 4.5 mile hike. Please wear sturdy shoes, and bring water.  Rain cancels hike  $10 Admission, jacklondonpark.com

HEALDSBURG: Thanksgiving Turkey Trot  November 28, 2024 at 8 am. 
$25, ci.healdsburg.ca.us
Healdsburg Running Company, 333 Center St., Healdsburg, CA Starts at the Healdsburg Running Company 

HUNTINGTON BEACH Causelife Turkey Wobble 5K/10K November 28, 2024, 7 a.m.-10 a.m.
Location: 21599 Pacific Coast Highway
Huntington Beach, CA
$30-50, hbturkeywobble.com
All proceeds from the 13th Annual Huntington Beach Turkey Wobble go toward providing clean water and other essentials to Hurricane Helene victims

IRVINE: Orange County Turkey Trot 5k Thursday, November 28, 2024, 7:30 a.m.
Irvine Valley College
5500 Irvine Center Drive
Irvine, CA 92618.
$33-56, runsignup.com

LA CAÑADA: Thanksgiving Day 5K Run/Walk and Kids’ Mile Run  November 28, 2024, 8:30 a.m.
Memorial Park
La Cañada, CA
$45 approx., cclcf.org
31st Community Center of La Cañada Flintridge’s Thanksgiving Day Run and Food Drive, the biggest fundraiser of the year, begins at La Canada’s Olberz Park!  $20-60. You can drop off non-perishable food items to be distributed to those in need this holiday season by the Crescenta Valley Sheriff’s Department.

LAGUNA NIGUEL: Turkey Trek November 28, 2024, 10:15 a.m. sharp
Meet by the oak tree in front of Sea Country for a leisurely walk together through Yosemite Park.  Dogs (on leash) are welcome, but they may not enter the center. Free gift for all participants. Please bring water to stay hydrated. Free, cityoflagunaniguel.org

LAKE ALMANOR: 5K Turkey Trot  November 28, 2024, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Bailey Creek Golf Course Club House
433 Durkin Dr.
Lake Almanor, CA, Lake Almanor
$25, lakealmanorarea.com
Chamber of Commerce event, Kids under age 10 run / walk free.
 At Bailey Creek Golf Course. The Turkey Trot is a fun run, it's all about having a good time. Think of Bay to Breakers on Thanksgiving Day. Incorporate the themes or come as you wish. Rain, snow or shine, the run is on. There will music and fire pits for warmth. Quickly becoming the newest Lake Almanor family tradition!  5k course begins at the Bailey Creek Clubhouse and wraps through the quiet neighborhood of Bailey Creek. Runners, walkers, strollers and dogs welcome!

LANCASTER YMCA  annual 1K  and 5K Turkey Trot November 28, 2024, 8 a.m. | 1K Gobble Wobble Run November 27, 2024, 4:30 p.m.
Antelope Valley YMCA event held at Lancaster City Park
43001 10th St.
Lancaster, Ca
$15-60, ymcala.org
Turkey Trot is the biggest race of the year in the Antelope Valley and is just plain fun. Everyone gets a t-shirt, bib # and swag bag. Race is timed but not chipped and medals are given to each age group. It's a great community event that attracts many out of towners visiting family. Antelope Valley Family YMCA West Lancaster, CA. One of the most beautiful races in the Antelope Valley and held Thanksgiving day. Walk, run, jog or race! It's up to you.

LOMPOC: Turkey Dash 1 Mile and 3 Mile Fun Run November 24, 2024, 8 a.m.
$25-35, cityoflompoc.com
River Park run.... This event is geared for all ages and ability levels for people to experience a great 3-mile race. A T-shirt will be included with your registration and prizes will be awarded for 1st & 2nd place in each category. Location: River Park, Fitness Trail

LOS ANGELES: Turkey Trot L.A. 5K/10K November 28, 2024, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
City Hall
200 N Spring St.
Los Angeles, CA
$25.76-75.44, turkeytrot.la
 Plus 1K Widdle Wobble for the little runners in the family. Join 3,000 of your closest feathered friends on Turkey Day and run along historic Spring Street, Grand Park and the sights of downtown. The race starts and finishes in front of City Hall. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, this event benefits the Midnight Mission. Parking at The Music Center, 135 N. Grand Ave. 

MODESTO: MJC Turkey Trot and Gobbler Walk November 28, 2024, 8:45 a.m.
Tuolumne River Regional Park
1200 Tioga Dr.
Modesto, CA 95354 
$30 approx., runsignup.com | 
Proceeds benefit MJC's track & field & cross country program. Course: The 3.1 mile course is on a paved path with some grass and dirt is just for walkers,  strollers and dogs allowed. 

MORAGA: Thanksgiving Day  5K Run/Walk MCC Turkey Trot November 28, 2024,  8:15 a.m.
Moraga Country Club
1600 St. Andrews Drive, Moraga, CA
$38 approx., runsignup.com/ Race/ CA/ Moraga/ MoragaTurkeyTrot
Annual MCC Turkey Trot Fun Run along the road and paths of the beautiful Moraga Country Club help raise contributions to the Food Banks of Contra Costa & Solano Counties

MOUNTAIN VIEW: MVHS Sports Boosters Spartan Turkey Trot 5k & 1 Mile Run/Walk plus Kids Dash November 28, 2024, 8:20 a.m.
Mountain View High School Track, 3535 Truman Ave., Mountain View, CA.  $50, spartanturkeytrot.com | mvhssportsboosters.org/turkey-trot
Come out on Thanksgiving weekend to gather with friends, family and neighbors, to have some fun, celebrate the holiday, burn some calories, and support an organization making a difference for the kids in our community! 

NAPA: Napa Valley Turkey Chase 5K/10K November 28, 2024, 8 a.m. - Noon
Napa Valley College
2277 Napa Vallejo Highway
Napa, CA
$35-52, runsignup.com
Napa Valley College, along the Napa River Trail, Napa, CA Athletic Feat hosts the Napa Valley Turkey Chase, a 5K and 10K fun run and walk, plus kids' 100m dash on Thanksgiving Day. Participants can run or walk in the 5K or 10K. 

NORTH HOLLYWOOD: Drumstick Dash 5K/10K November 28, 2024, 8:30 a.m.
Magnolia & Lankershim
North Hollywood, CA
$12.50-25 approx., drumstickdashla.com
Over 1,200 participate in this family event with runners opting to run, walk, and even push strollers in LA's largest Thanksgiving 5k/10k run. Costume contest, DJs pumping the tunes and all proceeds from this event help Hope of the Valley provide over 2 million hot meals for homeless men, women and children.

NOVATO: Marin Turkey Trot 1 Mile, 5K, 10K,  November 28, 2024, 8:30 p.m.
1800 Ignacio Blvd.
Novato, CA
$30-85 approx., marinturkeytrot.com
Bank of Marin Turkey Trot runs on the roads out and back through the beautiful Indian Valley College campus and along Ignacio Blvd and finishes on the IVC fields

OAKLAND: Oakland Turkey Trot 5K November 28, 2024, 8:30 a.m.
Eastshore Park
550 El Embarcadero
Oakland, CA
$60.94 approx., oaklandturkeytrot.org
Opening Ceremony Special Guests; Finish Line Festival with Live Music Raise funds for Oakland Promise and art, music and fitness programs in Oakland schools.

OCEANSIDE: O'Side Turkey Trot Thanksgiving Morning, November 28, 2024, 6:45 a.m.
Oceanside Civic Center
330 N. Coast Highway
Oceanside, CA
$45-77, osideturkeytrot.com
Last year's O'side Turkey Trot attracted a record crowd to what is becoming an Oceanside holiday tradition.  Be a part of a race that has it all - scenic and fast courses, great costumes, local beneficiaries, and a festive, fun atmosphere. The event attracts 10K participants from 460 cities and 46 states. All finishers receive a custom finisher medal, t-shirt, goodie bag, free photos and complimentary finish line refreshments.

PACIFIC PALISADES: Pacific Palisades Turkey Trot November 28, 2024, 8 a.m.
15777 Bowdoin St.
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
$69.90-90 approx., paliturkeytrot.com
Starts and finishes at Palisades Charter High Football Field Dolphin Stadium. 2,200 participants and 2,500 spectators across Pacific Palisades in what has become a fun, family community tradition dating back to 2013.

PALM DESERT: Thanksgiving Day 5K benefiting Martha's Village and Kitchen! Thursday Nov. 28, 2024, 8 a.m. at San Pablo & El Paseo, Palm Desert
$39.25 - $49.25, marthasvillage.org
Food Trucks, Beer Garden, Vendor Exhibits, photo station, and a doggie refreshment station. Kids Zone features complimentary face painting, activities, Pictures with Santa & Mrs. Clause, and Build-a-Bear Workshop!

PALM SPRINGS: PS Running Wild's Wild Turkey Trot 5K November 28, 2024, 8 a.m.
100 N. Palm Canyon
Corner of Tahquitz & Palm Canyon
Palm Springs, CA
$40, palmspringsmarathonrunners.org  
Iconic Palm Springs event starts and finishes downtown. Age group medals awards 

PASADENA: Rose Bowl 5K Turkey Trot  November 28, 2024, 8:30-10:30 a.m. 
R0se Bowl Stadium
1001 Rose Bowl Drive
Pasadena, CA
$38.10-43.40 approx.  rosebowlturkeytrot.com
Race or walk around the stadium grounds and Brookside Golf Course in the scenic Arroyo Seco. Event is all ages. Parking, Start-Line at North Lot K (Corner of West Dr. and Seco St.)  Awards for top male, female, and dog finishers. 

PETALUMA: Petaluma Turkey Trot November 28,2024, 8:15 a.m.
Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility
3958 Cypress Dr.
Petaluma, CA 
$25 recommended donation, madarc.com/turkey-trot-petaluma/
Starts behind Kaiser Permanente (on Lakeville Hwy, Petaluma) in their "Staff Parking Lot E", running thru the Ellis Creek Water Treatment Park

PERRIS: MVRRC  Annual Turkey Trot 5k Fun Run/walk November 16, 2024, 7:30 a.m.
Moreno Valley Road Runners Club
Lake Perris State Recreation
17801 Lake Perris Perris, CA 92571
$5-25 + $10 entrance into park, raceplace.com
The race starts and finishes at the Dam. 10K race will run the 5k course twice. This is a flat long course with no traffic.

PISMO BEACH: SLO County Turkey Trot November 28, 2024, 8:30 a.m.
Pismo Beach Pier & Letters
100 Pomeroy Ave.
Pismo Beach, CA
$25,  slofoodbank.org/ turkey-trot/
Supporting holiday meals and providing nourishment to those experiencing hunger. This Thanksgiving morning, participate in our Turkey Trot to support the right to food for all your neighbors in San Luis Obispo County.

PLEASANT HILL:  Turkey Trot Trail Run November 16, 2024, 9 a.m.
Briones Regional Park - Bear Creek Entrance
16 Bear Creek Rd.
Lafayette, CA
$30-35, pleasanthillrec.com
47th Annual 8.4 mile run in the beautiful hills of Briones Regional Park including uphill to Briones Peak (elev. 1483 ft.) starts and finishes at Bear Creek Staging Area. Divisions include: 13 yrs and under; 14-18 yrs; 19-29 yrs; 30-39 yrs; 40-49 yrs; and 50 yrs and above. pleasanthillrec.com

PORT HUENEME: NBVC 5K Turkey Run November 14, 2024, 11 a.m.
Beehive Gym., BLDG 233
Port Hueneme, CA
Free, runsignup.com
Military active duty and civilians alike are invited to participate in the Naval Base Ventura County 5K run.

RANCHO MISSION VIEJO: Turkey Trot on the Ranch November 28, 2024, 8-10:30 a.m.
The Ranch
Sendero Field
29201 Ortega Highway, Rancho Mission Viejo, CA 92694
$43.40-48.70, turkeytrotontheranch.com
Benefits The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo. 5K/10K race starts at The Pavilion (2 Tierno Road, Rancho Mission Viejo, CA) and ends at Sendero Field (29201 Ortega Highway, Rancho Mission Viejo, CA

ROSEVILLE: Turkey Trot November 28, 2024, 9 a.m.
5k - 10k event
Starts & finishes on Vernon Street Town Square
$50-60 approx. registration, roseville.ca.us
Help Feed the Hungry -- Bring canned food donations to the Roseville Sports Center during packet pickup or Vernon Street Town Square on race day.

SACRAMENTO: Run to Feed the Hungry 10K, 5K November 28, 2024, 8-11:30 a.m.
Sac State
J Street entrance to University
Carlson Drive at J Street
Sacramento, CA
$38-52, runtofeedthehungry.com
In 1994 the inaugural Run to Feed the Hungry was launched on Thanksgiving morning. This Sacramento tradition, boasting 30,000 participants, is not only the largest run in Sacramento, but also the largest Thanksgiving Day fun run in the country! Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS) owns, plans and hosts Run to Feed the Hungry. 

SAN BERNARDINO: Turkey Trot 5K,10K Family Fun Run November 28, 2024, 6:30 a.m.
San Bernardino International Airport
295 N. Leland Norton Way
San Bernardino, CA
$45-60 approx., sbturkeytrot.com
Bring your family and friends to wobble before you gobble. Flat, scenic race featuring a 10K, 5K Family Fun Run and Kiddy Walk. Course starts and ends at San Bernardino International Airport, 105 N. Leland Norton Way,  with the route going on Perimeter Road. Turn around is on Hangar Way. - Finish-line festival featuring costume contest, music, food, freebies, and fun for adults and kids of all ages

SAN DIEGO: Father Joe's Villages Thanksgiving Day 5K November 28, 2024, 7:15 a.m.
Balboa Park starts at Cabrillo Bridge
1549 El Prado
San Diego, CA 92101
$56-66.80 approx., my.neighbor.org
Annual walk or run through beautiful Balboa Park with your family, friends and furry companions. Enjoy a post-race festival including live music, a beer garden, optional pre-race mass and a meet-and-greet with characters. Proceeds from support Food Services program.

SAN FRANCISCO: San Francisco Turkey Trot 5M, 3M and Kids Gobbler Chase 100Meter Thanksgiving Run & Walk  Thursday, November 28, 2024, 8 a.m.
Golden Gate Park Polo Field
San Francisco, CA 94122
$, sfTurkeyTrot.com

SAN GABRIEL: City of San Gabriel Turkey Trot & Costume Contest November 16, 2024, 6-11 a.m.
Vincent Lugo Park
Wells & Prospect Ave.
San Gabriel, CA
$40-50, sangabrielcity.com/turkeytrot
1K Youth, 5K Walk, 5K Run, 10K Run. Vincent Lugo Park. Best child costume and best group costume contest at the 47th annual Turkey Trot.

SAN JOSE: Silicon Valley Turkey Trot November 28, 2024, 8:30 p.m. race begins, but come at 7:30 a.m. for pre-run activities
Downtown San Jose, W Santa Clara Street, and N 1st Street
11 S 1st St
San Jose, CA
$49.50-55 approx., svturkeytrot.com
Billed as Largest Thanksgiving Day Race in the nation. Takes place in downtown San Jose. Race Day Packet Pick Up Opens   Costume Contest, Kids activities begin in Family Fun Zone, and many things going on  with the goal of raising funds for special causes.

SAN MATEO: Gobble Wobble 5K, 10K, 1 Mile, Kids Dash November 28, 2024, 8-10 a.m.
Coyote Point Park
San Mateo, CA
$40-50 approx., arunnersmind.com/gobblewobble
ARM up and give thanks with a  Post Race Festival and Pancake Breakfast.

SAN PABLO: Nitro Turkey 5K & 10K Run November 28, 2024, 8:45 a.m.
Point Pinole Regional Park
5551 Giant Highway
San Pablo, CA
$58-73, brazenracing.com
Costumes encouraged. There will be a 5K and 10K, as well as the Little Turkeys Race: a run for the kids (roughly 100 yards) against the Nitro Turkey.   Nitro Turkey is also hosting a food drive for the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano and encourages every little turkey to bring at least one canned good on race morning. 

SAN RAMON: Bishop Ranch Fast or Festive 5K Turkey Trot and Kids Tiny (50-yard) Turkey Dash November 28, 2024, 8:30 a.m.
Bishop Ranch City Center
6000 Bollinger Canyon Road
San Ramon, CA 
$40.75 approx., runsignup.com | bishopranch.com
Costumes are encouraged at this scenic run around picturesque lakes and gardens on a flat course with mix of pavement and packed dirt. Contra Costa Food Bank is beneficiary.

SANTA BARBARA: UCSB Turkey Trot November 23, 2024, 9:30 a.m.
UCSB
Department of Recreation, Lot 23
University of California, Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA
$25-35, recreation.sa.ucsb.edu/turkeytrot
 The Saturday before Thanksgiving, the UCSB Recreation Department presents the Turkey Trot at the UCSB Lagoon. The charity event is a 5k run/walk or 10k run open to the community. The courses feature scenic routes that start on campus, circles the lagoon, passes Campus Point and other breathtaking sights of Isla Vista.

SANTA CLARITA: College of the Canyons Turkey Trot 3 Mile Run November 28, 2024, 8:30 a.m.
Central Park Field 7 & 8
26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd.
Santa Clarita, CA US 91355
$25, runsignup.com
Santa Clarita Track Club invites community members of all ages to run, walk, or jog in the event benefiting the club cross country and track & field programs. Participants  run a 5k cross country course through beautiful Santa Clarita's Central Park, beginning on field 7 & 8 (where the concerts in the park were) winding through the hills overlooking the Santa Clarita Central Park, and finally finishing back at fields 7 & 8.

SANTA CRUZ: Santa Cruz Turkey Trot  5K, 10K plus Kids 1K November 23, 2024, 7:45 a.m.-12 p.m.
UC Santa Cruz
Antonelli Pond at Delaware Ave.
2300 Delaware
Santa Cruz, CA
$5-48.70, santacruztrackclub.com
Scenic ocean view, flat and fast out and back courses that begin and end on Delaware street by the back entrance to Natural Bridges State Park. Race takes place rain or shine. Awards for 10k, 5k & 1k!

SANTA MONICA:  Turkey Trot 5k, 10k, 15k, Half Marathon Thursday, November 28, 2024, 7:30 a.m.
Santa Monica by the beach path
2000 Ocean Ave
Santa Monica, CA 90405
$30-45, abetterworldrunning.com
Clock timed (not chip timed) open course fun run consisting of counter clockwise marked loops

SANTA ROSA: Santa Rosa Turkey Trot Fast or Festive 5K and Tiny Turkey Kids Run November 28, 2024, 8 a.m.
Courthouse Square
Santa Rosa, CA
$44, santarosaturkeytrot.com
Fast 5K is for under 40 minute runners. Kids Tiny Turkey Run is around Courthouse Square, taking 10 minutes or less. The new 5K course starts and finishes at Courthouse Square, and takes you on a figure 8, around downtown, through Julliard Park, onto the Prince Memorial Greenway, and home along the city Streets.

SEAL BEACH: Turkey Trot November 23, 2024, 7 a.m.
Start & Finish on Main Street Downtown
$32-61, runforturkey.com | runsignup.com
 The Annual Seal Beach Turkey Trot consists of a 5K, 10K, Gym Challenge and the Kids "Don't Be A Turkey" Trot. A portion of every registration goes back to Charities

SOLVANG: Turkey Trot November 28, 2024, 10 a.m.
Sunny Fields
$25, cityofsolvang.com
Proceeds from this annual event help support a local charity. Bring your family, friends and neighbors and join this turk-tastic 5k run at 10 am at the Sunny Fields Park.   Walk or run, all for fun and for a good cause. All ages are welcome to participate in this little post meal exercise amongst friends.

SOUTH EL MONTE: Turkey Dash 5K Run/Walk & 1K Trot Turkey Dash 5K Run/Walk & 1 Trot Saturday, November 23, 2024, 8:30 a.m. at City Hall, 1415 Santa Anita Avenue
Registration is required  $10, ci.south-el-monte.ca.us

TEHACHAPI: Hot Chocolate 5K Turkey Trot November 23, 2024, 8 a.m., 9 a.m. mass start
Brite Lake
22902 Banducci Road
Tehachapi, CA
$30-35,  tvrpd.org
Electronic timing, great course, run beanies, finisher medals, hot chocolate and refreshments after the run.

TEMECULA: Temecula Turkey Trot & Food Drive November 28, 2024, 7 a.m.
 28582 Harveston Drive
Temecula, CA US 92591
$38.10, runsignup.com
 11th Annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning!
It's that time again to get HUFFING & PUFFING  before you get stuffing in the flat and fast 5K. Costume Contest is an annual tradition, so dress your best and wear your festive attire. New this year: Prizes for Top 3 Finishers, Best Costume and Wobble Line Dancing. Please bring 3 non-perishable items for donation to the Circle of Care Food Pantry. 

TORRANCE: Turkey Trot 3 Mile Fun Run November 28, 2024, 8-10 a.m.
Sam's Club Parking Lot
2601 Skypark Drive
$30-40, torranceca.gov
Annual Turkey Trot Harry Sutter Memorial 3 Mile Fun Run -- The City of Torrance Community Services Department invites the entire family to participate in our Annual Harry Sutter Memorial Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot Fun Run. This three-mile fun run on Thanksgiving morning includes a commemorative Turkey Trot shirt for those who pre-register.

TURLOCK: 50th Annual Turkey Trot Saturday,  November 23, 2024, at Donnelly Park!  9 a.m. - Noon.
Donnelly Park
600 Pedras Rd
Turlock Ca
$20, cityofturlock.org
Children's and Adult run the Saturday before Thanksgiving offers a day filled with fitness and fun for the entire family! Prizes awarded to 1st and 2nd place finishers!

TUSTIN: Turkey Trot OC (Orange County) 5K November 28, 2024, 8 a.m.
Orange County Rescue Mission
One Hope Drive
Tustin, CA
$30-40, rescuemission.org/ turkey-trot/
Parking: Veterans Sports Park, Valencia Ave. at Lansdowne Road
Flat, fast course with event a fundraiser to end homelessness through programs of food, housing, etc.

UKIAH: North Coast Striders 5K/10K Turkey Trot November 24, 2024, 9:15 a.m.
Lake Mendocino
Joe Riley Picnic Area/South Boat Ramp
Ukiah, CA
$27.50-40 approx., runsignup.com
Open to the public, participants predict their finishing times before the race, and closest times win a turkey or pie. The 5K is a picturesque, paved route while 10K is a challenging course that takes participants through both paved and single-track trails sporting breathtaking views.

UPLAND: Upland Turkey Trot 5K  & 1K Run November 28, 2024, 8 a.m.
San Antonio Park
2393 N. Mountain Ave.
Mountain Avenue & 24th Street
Upland, CA
$25-35, uplandca.gov | racewire.com
Start/Finish At San Antonio Park/Historical Waiting Station located at Mountain Ave. & 24th St., Upland.  Prizes awarded 

VENTURA: Ventura Annual Turkey Trot 5K & Kids 1K Thursday, November 28, 2024, 8 a.m.
Ventura Auto Center
$48.90, runsignup.com
This loop course is fast and flat. The event takes place at the Ventura Auto Center on Hofer Dr between Ventura Toyota and Paradise Chevrolet. Parking is primarily off King Dr.  Charity Partner - Pediatric Playroom at Ventura County Medical Center.

VISALIA: Visalia Emergency Aid Race Against Hunger 5k / 2 Mile November 28, 2024, 8-10 a.m. Garden Street Plaza (Main St. & Garden) in Downtown Visalia $15-40, visaliaturkeytrot.com
 Over 5,000 participants celebrate this family-friendly event in its 20th Season.

WALNUT CREEK: Forma Gym Turkey Trot 5K/10K November 28, 2024, 8-10 a.m.  
Civic Park
1375 Civic Dr
Walnut Creek, California
$40-60 approx., formaturkeytrot.com
Annual Turkey Trot Thanksgiving morning tradition begins and ends at Civic Drive. Both the 5K and 10K go through beautiful downtown Walnut Creek. The 10K also extends out on to the Iron Horse trail.  Proceeds benefit White Pony Express, Pledge to Humanity and the Forma Kids Foundation. 

YUBA CITY: Hands of Hope Turkey Trot 5k/10k November 23, 2024, 7:30 a.m.
Riverbend Elementary
301 Stewart Road
Yuba City CA. 95991
$30, ychandsofhope.org/turkey-trot
5k/10k Walk/Run to benefit Hands of Hope

 

Must confirm

FALLBROOK: Fallbrook Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot website does not confirm this event for 2024
 Thursday, November 28, 2024, 7:30 a.m.
Grand Tradition Estate & Gardens
La Paloma Elementary School and Community Center. The event will be a 1-mile run, walk or stroll with fun games along the way. 300 Heald Ln, Fallbrook. fallbrookvillagerotary.com/event/2024-turkey-trot
$35-50, fallbrookturkeytrot.com
Event raises money for the Fallbrook Rotary Club Foundation.

JACKSON: Turkey Trot November 28, 2024, 8 a.m. website does not confirm this event for 2024
at Lake Tabeaud 6 miles east of Jackson. 2.7 mi. walk/run once around the lake. 6.4 mi. walk/run out-and-back. Entry: Please consider a Monetary Donation or a bag of non-perishable groceries. No tee shirts or registration. Interfaith Food Bank of Amador County $, FeedAmador.org

RIO VISTA: 5K or 1/4 Mile Kids Dash Turkey Trot No info 2024
The Gym at Rio Vista
40 N. 2nd Street
Rio Vista, CA
$5-30, runsignup.com
 Rio Vista's Turkey Trot is fast 5K course along the waterfront of our community. 100% of proceeds go toward supporting its High School Cross Country team. This is a perfect way to welcome Thanksgiving morning. 

SANTA MARIA: Turkey Trot 1 Mile Fun Run and 5K November 
Santa Maria River Levee Trailhead
off North Preisker Lane
Santa Maria, CA
$25-30, cityofsantamaria.org
The 5K starts at 9 a.m. and is open to participants ages 14 and older. The one-mile fun run is open to ages 6-13. The 5K is an out-and-back course.

Each year around the last week of November people from all over the United States (and California) take a day off to celebrate the heritage of a nation. How do they do it? By declaring Thanksgiving Day as a day paying homage to the founding of a nation and its rich bounty.

Events are not guaranteed. It is your responsibility to confirm before going.