Thanksgiving Events in San Diego

As we draw closer to Thanksgiving, you can practically smell the roasted turkey and mashed potatoes. From Turkey Trots to feasts – if you really want to get into the holiday spirit, check out these awesome Thanksgiving events happening right here in San Diego!

Turkey Trots

Father Joe’s Villages Thanksgiving Day 5k – Balboa Park

The original and longest-standing Turkey Trot in all of San Diego, this 5k is also one of the most family oriented. Over 7,500 participants take to Balboa Park to celebrate this holiday, all while generating awareness to the homeless population of San Diego. Proceeds from this event go towards providing and serving more than 1 million meals each year to those in need. Post-race, you’ll be able to enjoy live music, a beer garden, costume contests, award ceremonies, and more. Be there bright and early, as the run begins at 6:30 am and goes until 10:30 am.

Waddle and Trot 5k and Kids Fun Run – Santee Lakes

This turkey trot is perfect for runners and walkers of all levels. Taking place at the beautiful Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve, this is a great chance to spend an active day outside with family and friends before digging into your Thanksgiving meal. All participants will receive a custom designed t-shirt, a certificate, and a medal. The race starts at 8:00 am sharp.

Run for the Hungry – Downtown

A 5k/10k run/walk through downtown, the Run for the Hungry is a proud sponsor Jacob & Cushman San Diego Food Bank. Created in 2000, this run has been the premiere event on Thanksgiving day in downtown, making a huge impact on those who face hunger in the community. For every participant, at least 185 meals will be served through each runners fee to help those in need. Plus, you can bring your dog along for the fun! 5k starts at 7:00 am and the 10k starts at 8:15 am.

Running of the Turkeys 10k Trail Run – Penasquitos Canyon

Not afraid to get a little down and dirty? This 10k turkey trot will have you running/walking through the Penasquitos Canyon hills, where you’ll come upon wide dirt trails, and maybe even a little water crossing. This course is a mixture of rolling hills and fun obstacles, and for the enterprising fitness fanatics, this could be the perfect workout before treating yourself to a nice Thanksgiving meal. The race begins at 7:30 am and is free to participate.

Feasts

Chefs Giving at Provisional

A Thanksgiving meal prepared by eight of San Diego’s most renowned chefs? Sounds pretty great to me. This year, head over to Provisional to enjoy creative holiday dishes prepared by top-tier chefs, prepared fresh in the restaurant’s kitchen. Dinner will be served family-style along with complementary wines at communal tables. Tickets are $145 per person and include a $25 donation to the San Diego Food Bank.

Thanksgiving Brunch or Dinner Cruise

Switch it up this year and enjoy your Thanksgiving meal while cruising around the stunning San Diego harbor thanks to Hornblower Cruises. You’ll be treated to all the traditional Thanksgiving fixings, complete with a holiday buffet. At the brunch cruise, you’ll enjoy bottomless champagne, a private table, and breathtaking views. At dinner, courses are served as the views change, perfectly complemented by live music and a curated list of wines and cocktails. Tickets start at $75 per person.

Thanksgiving at Pendry

This award-winning restaurant will be serving up a specially crafted three-course meal for this year’s Thanksgiving festivities. You deserve a break from spending your day cooking for the holidays, so why not head over to a place that will serve you a Thanksgiving meal to remember? Tickets are $80 for adults and $25 for children.