Before the kitchen fills up and everyone settles around the table, Thanksgiving morning has a tradition of its own: meeting outside, gathering a few friends, and getting moving together.
Around North County, that might mean running beneath the Encinitas sign, finishing beside the ocean in Oceanside, or taking a slower lap through the neighborhood. Whether you’re working toward a finish time or walking with the family, these turkey trots offer a little fresh air and community before the rest of the day unfolds.
All six take place on Thursday, November 26, 2026.
Encinitas Turkey Trot
For a classic coastal Thanksgiving morning
Starting and finishing beneath the Encinitas sign, this Thanksgiving tradition puts Coast Highway 101 at the center of the morning. There’s a 5K, a 10K, and a free kids’ run, with a costume contest giving groups another reason to coordinate before heading downtown.
It’s an especially fitting choice if the coast is part of your holiday ritual. The event also supports the Veterans Association of North County.
Where: Coast Highway 101 at West D Street, downtown Encinitas
When: 10K at 7:30 AM; Kids-K at 7:40 AM; 5K at 8 AM
Distances: 5K, 10K, and kids’ 1K fun run
Good to know: Strollers are welcome; pets aren’t permitted. The 1K fun run is free for children ages 7 and under.
O’side Turkey Trot
For an oceanfront finish and a full morning of festivities
Oceanside’s trot pairs a downtown start with a finish on The Strand, bringing the holiday down to the water. Along the way, runners can expect live entertainment and costumes, with separate kids’ races keeping the celebration going later in the morning.
The schedule gives participants several ways to join: an early 5K, a main wave, or a dedicated walk. For those who want a longer outing, the Double Dip Challenge combines both 5K running waves. The event benefits the San Diego Food Bank and participating local schools and nonprofits.
Where: Adult races start at 330 N. Coast Highway and finish at The Strand and Seagaze
When: Early 5K at 7 AM; main 5K at 8 AM; 5K walk at 8:15 AM; kids’ mile at 10 AM; kids’ 1/5 mile at 10:25 AM
Distances: 5K, Double Dip Challenge, and two kids’ distances
Good to know: The kids’ mile is for ages 7–12; the 1/5 mile is for ages 6 and under. Kids’ races have separate start locations listed on the event website.
San Diego–North County Turkey Trot
For an inland race with a local purpose
At 4S Ranch Sports Park, the San Diego–North County Turkey Trot brings the Thanksgiving tradition inland. Now in its third year, the event offers 5K and 10K distances alongside a kids’ 1K, with a costume contest adding some holiday personality.
Proceeds benefit Active Kids Alliance, which provides sports scholarships for children and families in need. It’s a chance to spend the morning with neighbors while helping more local kids get into the game.
Where: 4S Ranch Sports Park, 16118 4S Ranch Parkway
When: 10K at 7:15 AM; 5K at 7:30 AM; kids’ 1K at 8:45 AM
Distances: 5K, 10K, and kids’ 1K
Good to know: Registration includes a souvenir shirt, participant medal, swag bag, and raffle entry.
Fleet Feet Thanksgiving Day 5K & Fun Run
For an easygoing, free outing in Pacific Highlands Ranch
Fleet Feet’s Thanksgiving run keeps things simple: meet at the shop, head out for a run or walk, and return for morning refreshments. The informal route follows sidewalks, with a marked one-mile turnaround for anyone who wants a shorter outing.
Strollers are welcome, making this an approachable option for families moving at different speeds. Entry is free, and participants are encouraged to bring canned food for the San Diego Food Bank.
Where: Fleet Feet San Diego, 5980 Village Way, Pacific Highlands Ranch
When: 8 AM
Distances: 5K, with a one-mile option
Cost: Free; registration requested
Good to know: Roads remain open. Participants must follow pedestrian traffic laws.
Rancho San Pasqual Turkey Trot
For a neighborhood Thanksgiving in Escondido
What began as an informal gathering during the pandemic has grown into a Thanksgiving tradition in Rancho San Pasqual. The 5K winds through the community, welcoming runners, walkers, and families for a relaxed start to the holiday.
There’s also a short Kids’ Gobbler run for younger participants. With free registration and a neighborhood setting, this is one to consider if your ideal Thanksgiving morning stays close to home.
Where: Rancho San Pasqual Clubhouse, Escondido
When: 8 AM
Distances: 5K run/walk and a short kids’ run
Cost: Free
Good to know: Register so organizers can plan refreshments. The November 6 deadline to register for a medal has passed.
Running of the Turkeys
For a Thanksgiving morning on the trails
For those drawn to dirt trails and rolling hills, Running of the Turkeys offers a different way to spend the morning. This untimed 5K and 10K outing gathers in Torrey Hills before participants walk together to the trail start.
There’s no official entry fee, though organizers ask for a minimum $20 donation per person to support Operation Rebound, a Challenged Athletes Foundation program serving injured military personnel, veterans, and first responders.
Where: Check in at Torrey Hills Neighborhood Park, 4300 Calle Mejillones
When: Check-in from 7–7:30 AM; briefing at 7:35 AM; run at 8 AM
Distances: 5K and 10K trail runs; the 10K is for runners only
Cost: No entry fee; minimum $20 donation per person requested
Good to know: Arrive for the briefing—the group walks approximately half a mile to the start. This is a cupless event; bring your own water.
Event details checked November 11, 2026. Review your event’s latest instructions before heading out, including parking, packet pickup, and your specific start location.
