Run Before You Feast! 2017 Turkey Trots

A fun run that is held on or around Thanksgiving day, a turkey trot, is an exciting way to get together with family and friends and burn off some calories before the big feast. Often, turkey trots are held in support of various charities, and offer prizes for the winners of the race. Those who want to get into the holiday spirit sometimes wear costumes, often resembling a turkey. Here are some local turkey trots that you can participate in for the coming holiday.

The annual Running of the Turkeys 10k trail run will be taking place on November 23rd at 7:30am. This run will take you through all kinds of terrain, including rolling hills, craggy dirt trails, and exciting water crossings in the hills of Penasquitos Canyon. This a great opportunity to burn off those few extra calories before indulging in the Thanksgiving festivities with your friends and family. Be sure to wear shoes that you don’t mind getting a bit muddy, as you will be running through some certainly dirty situations. This race will be a cup-less run, meaning if you get thirsty while racing, you’ll want to bring your own water bottle to make sure you stay hydrated. This race requires no official entry fee, but it is greatly appreciated if you give a minimum donation of $20 to the partner charity Operation Rebound. For more information, head to the Running of the Turkeys website here.

Also taking place on Thanksgiving, the San Diego Run For The Hungry is turkey trot that is held to raise money to the homeless and those in needs during the holiday season. Started in 2000 by Michael London, a business owner with extensive experience in the fitness industry, this turkey trot has made a huge impact on the San Diego homeless population for 17 years. All of the proceeds are donated to organizations like JFS Food Mobile and HandUp Food Pantry. The race is a 5k & 10k course that extends through downtown San Diego and around Petco Park. An event for well-trained athletes and casual participants alike, the Run For The Hungry also allows your furry friends to participate, with all dogs getting a complimentary bandana and dog treats. Make sure you get a good night’s sleep, because the race starts bright and early at 7am. The price for registration varies for age groups and teams, so check out the website for more information.

Known for being one of the biggest and most family-friendly turkey trots in San Diego, Father Joe’s Thanksgiving 5k takes place beautiful Balboa Park. Over 7500+ participants come out on Thanksgiving to join in on this 5k race. All the proceeds of this event go towards Father Joe’s Villages, provider of housing and services for the homeless in several locations throughout San Diego. Every day, this organization prepares up to 3,000 meals and provide care to over 1,800 individuals every day, so all the money at this race is going towards a great cause. After you cross the finish line, go and enjoy the race festival. Complete with live music, refreshments, and even a beer garden for those who are 21+. In addition, there will be a kids area with Disney inspired characters, face painters, arts and crafts, and games. For more information on the event, head over to their website.