Run Before the Feast: Two Ways to Start Thanksgiving Day with Community and Compassion

CAMPBELL WELLMAN THANKSGIVING DAY RUNNING EVENTS SANTA MONICA CALIFORNIA

Thanksgiving Day in Los Angeles is defined by two things: gathering with family, and the satisfying rush of a morning race before the afternoon feast. If you're looking to earn that slice of pie, the Westside offers two distinct, equally compelling options this Thursday, each rooted in community and charity.

Whether you prefer the tranquil sweep of the Pacific coastline or the rugged challenge of the Santa Monica Mountains, here is your guide to starting Thanksgiving with purpose.

 

 

Option 1: The Coastal Stride for Peace (Santa Monica)

For those prioritizing a relaxed, scenic, and community-centered start to the holiday, the Turkey Day Trot: Stride for Peace is the perfect choice.

  • When & Where: Thursday, November 27th, at Crescent Bay Park (2000 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica). Check-in opens at 7:00 AM; the event begins at 8:00 AM.

  • The Vibe: This is a truly family-friendly, untimed event (ordered by the City of Santa Monica). Walk, stroll, or stride the 5K Stride for Peace along the Santa Monica Beach Path, or join the Family 1-Miler, perfect for strollers, pets, and all abilities. It’s all about the ocean views, fresh air, and festive photo ops.

  • Striding for a Cause: Your participation supports two crucial areas of need:

    • Merge Opportunities: The event partners with this Long Beach–based nonprofit, which creates pathways to employment, education, and empowerment for individuals facing barriers to work, including underserved and system-impacted young adults.

    • Remembering Lala: This year's event honors victims and survivors of domestic violence, raising awareness during a time when domestic violence reports can increase significantly. By walking together, the community offers compassion and supports healing.

Every participant receives a finisher medal and free event-day photos to capture the moment before returning to the park for refreshments and music. 

Click for more details & registration for runners and volunteers.

CAMPBELL WELLMAN THANKSGIVING DAY RUNNING EVENTS SANTA MONICA CALIFORNIA

 

 

Option 2: The LA Turkey Trail Challenge (Santa Monica Mountains)

If your Thanksgiving tradition requires a serious dose of dirt, distance, and dramatic elevation gain, head to the Santa Monica Mountains for LA’s only Thanksgiving Day trail race.

  • When & Where: The race starts at the Top of Reseda Trailhead on Thursday morning. The Half-Marathon starts at 7:00 AM, followed by the 10K and 5K Fun Run/Hike at 7:30 AM.

  • The Challenge: This is a pure trail experience across gracious fire roads and challenging singletrack, with enough vertical ascent to truly earn your meal. Runners enjoy breathtaking views spanning the entire Valley, the Santa Monica Bay, and the San Gabriels in the distance.

    • The Half-Marathon turns down Westridge for an epic singletrack descent.

    • The 10K Classic races along Dirt Mulholland and turns around at the famous Nike Missile Tower.

    • The 5K Fun Run is an all-levels out-and-back, perfect for a challenging hike.

  • Cash Prize and Celebration: The 1/2-marathon winners (men’s and women’s categories) take home a $500 Winner-Takes-All Cash Prize! The finish line celebration features a thirst-quenching beer garden (21+), a delicious vegan-friendly taco breakfast, and complimentary sports massage.

  • Giving Back: Runners are asked to bring canned food donations to the race site to be dropped off at the West Valley Food Bank, helping to ensure that "No one goes away hungry" during the holidays.

Click for more details & registration for participants.

CAMPBELL WELLMAN THANKSGIVING DAY RUNNING EVENTS SANTA MONICA CALIFORNIA

Regardless of which starting line you choose—the gentle ocean path or the rugged mountain trail—you'll be participating in a core American tradition that makes Thanksgiving the most popular running day in the United States. Start your day with gratitude, sweat, and a commitment to your community.