Looking to run off those calories you’re about to consume? San Joaquin County—and beyond—is hosting several turkey trot events to get locals moving and grooving before they mashed potato and gravy. As an added bonus, these runs all benefit a local cause. Lace up your shoes, consider donning a giant turkey suit, and hit the pavement. We’ve got all the details on where—and when—to sign up!
15th Annual Run & Walk Against Hunger
Stockton, CA
Do you have plans on Thanksgiving morning? The 15th annual Run & Walk Against Hunger, hosted by the Michael David Family Foundation, will be held on Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 28). Participants can choose between a 5K run/walk, 10K, or kid’s ¼-mile run to help raise money and awareness for the Emergency Food Bank. Stop into Fleet Feet to sign up or do it online. A discount is available if you sign up before Nov. 1. RunAgainstHunger.org
Trot for the Turkeys
Fremont, CA
Registration is open for Harvest Home Animal Sanctuary’s 4th annual Trot for the Turkeys 5K/10K race. In honor of the turkeys that call Harvest Home their home, participants (with their dogs, if they wish) can run to show support of turkeys before feasting on a vegan BBQ afterward. Giveaways and raffles available, plus a “Trot for the Turkeys” race shirt. The event is held at Quarry Lakes in Fremont on Sunday, Nov. 24. HarvestHomeSanctuary.com/Trot-for-the-Turkeys-5K-10K-Race
Rio Vista Turkey Trot
Rio Vista, CA
Just 30 minutes outside of San Joaquin County sits Rio Vista. The fast 5K-course is set along the waterfront, offering excellent views as you run. Participants can choose between a 5K or ¼-mile kid’s run at the event, which benefits youth cross country—a fitting cause. Medals are given to the top three finishers in each category, and the fastest man and fastest woman will receive a free gift. Nov. 28. 40 N. 2nd St., Rio Vista, RunSignup.com/Race/CA/RioVista/RioVistaTurkeyTrot
Run to Feed the Hungry
Sacramento, CA
Get out of town and participate in a bigger run—the country’s biggest Thanksgiving Day run to be exact. Run to Feed the Hungry is a Sacramento tradition, and it really is the biggest Thanksgiving Day run in the U.S., with nearly 30,000 participants in 2018. The run benefits the Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, with a goal of reducing food insecurity in the region. Nov. 28. RunToFeedTheHungry.com