Every Thanksgiving, North County turns its coastlines, parks, and downtown streets into one big, joyful running track. Families, first-timers, and seasoned runners all show up for the same reason: community, fresh air, and a little holiday tradition. Here’s your guide to the Turkey Trots taking over our corners of North County this year.
COURTESY ENCINITAS TURKEY TROT
A North County Thanksgiving tradition, the Encinitas Turkey Trot brings thousands to Moonlight Beach for a festive, oceanfront run — costumes highly encouraged. With a 5K, 10K, and free Kids-K, it’s one of the most spirited ways to kick off the holiday. Expect big crowds, great energy, and plenty of post-race bragging rights before your feast.
Location: Moonlight Beach + Downtown Encinitas
Date/Time: Thursday, November 27, 2025 — 10K at 7:30 AM, Kids-K at 7:40 AM, 5K at 8:00 AM
Distance(s): 5K, 10K, Kids-K
COURTESY OCEANSIDE TURKEY TROT
Celebrating its 20th year, the O’side Turkey Trot is one of the top Thanksgiving races in the country — complete with ocean views, live entertainment, and races for every age. This iconic North County tradition draws runners from all over the U.S. while raising over half a million dollars for local schools and nonprofits. Expect big crowds, big energy, and one of the most scenic 5Ks you’ll find anywhere.
Location: Starts at 330 N Coast Highway → Finishes on The Strand (Oceanside Amphitheater)
Date/Time: Thursday, November 27, 2025 — Early 5K at 6:45 AM, Main 5K at 8:05 AM, Kids Mile at 10:00 AM, Kids 1/5 Mile at 10:25 AM
Distance(s): 5K (Early & Main waves), Kids 1 Mile, Kids 1/5 Mile
COURTESY NORTH COUNTY THANKSGIVING RUN
Created to support youth athletics, the North County Thanksgiving Run is all about giving every child the chance to play, grow, and belong through sports. This family-friendly trot raises funds for local kids’ programs, helping provide equipment, scholarships, and community opportunities. By showing up on Thanksgiving morning, runners aren’t just logging miles — they’re helping open doors for the next generation.
Location: North County (Hosted in partnership with San Diego County Parks & Recreation)
Date/Time: Thursday, November 27, 2025 (Exact start times TBD by organizers)
Distance(s): Family-friendly run/walk distances (typically 5K + kids options)
COURTESY FLEET FEET
Fleet Feet’s annual Thanksgiving Day 5K is a free, family-friendly fun run that brings the community together for a morning of movement, gratitude, and giving back. With stroller-friendly sidewalks, a 1-mile option, and refreshment perks afterward, it’s an easygoing way to kick off the holiday. This year’s run also supports the San Diego Food Bank and Molly’s Angels Foundation through donations and fundraising miles.
Location: Fleet Feet San Diego — 5980 Village Way, The Village at Pacific Highlands Ranch
Date/Time: Thursday, November 27, 2025 — Check-in at 7:15 AM, Run at 8:00 AM
Distance(s): 5K fun run + optional 1-mile turnaround
The spirit of Louisiana arrives at San Diego waterfront for four days of live music, dancing, and authentic Cajun and Creole food.
From spring festivals to concerts — a curated look at the best things to do this April in North County San Diego.
March 1: Flower Fields Opening | Carlsbad Spring in North County doesn’t truly begin until the Flower Fields bloom. Opening March 1, this vibrant Carlsbad destination invites visitors to wander […]
From candlelit tasting menus to cheeky pop-ups and festive lattes worth lingering over, Valentine’s Week in North County is serving up more than just dinner reservations. Whether you’re planning a […]
Carlsbad’s iconic spring landscape is adding a new way to experience the season. On Sunday, March 15, 2026, the Fields of Luck 5K will debut as a limited-entry race set […]
January in North County San Diego brings food festivals, immersive exhibits, outdoor adventures, and community events that make winter surprisingly busy in the best way.
