44th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot

The 44th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot is a Thanksgiving Day tradition, attracting more than 10,000 participants, volunteers, and spectators to this charming, coastal city. In-person racing returns this year to the Dana Point Harbor. Produced by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and presented by Dana Point Harbor Partners, this event includes scenic 5K and 10K courses, and a Kids’ 1-mile Gobble Wobble fun run. Ambitious runners can register for both (5K and 10K races) to complete a 15K. The Dana Point Turkey Trot brings world class competitors and recreational runners and walkers of all ages, and is a perfect family-friendly event to kick-off the holiday season. Registration includes a 2021 t-shirt, finisher medal, bib with timing (kids’ race is not timed) and virtual goody bag. Run the race before you stuff your face! 

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, the Dana Point Turkey Trot benefits two local nonprofit organizations: Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley and Music Preserves Foundation. A portion of each runner’s registration fee goes towards each cause. Since its inception, the Dana Point Turkey Trot has donated over half a million dollars. 

Both non-profits’ missions are dedicated to the enrichment and support of the local youth demographic. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley is a world-class afterschool non-profit, offering quality programs for academic success and healthy lifestyles while building good character and leadership skills in their members. Music Preserves Foundation creates innovative music and cultural history education programs and curriculum for schools and the community, exploring the history and cultural significance of music and the pioneers who created the art forms. 

The Dana Point Turkey Trot encourages costumes, including a contest with prizes. While you may not be the fastest runner, you could win Best Adult Costume, Best Child’s Costume, or Best Group Costume. Pick up your race packet at the Health & Fitness Expo in the Dana Point Harbor and interact with a wide variety of local and national vendors. Expo hours: Wednesday, November 24 from 12 to 7 p.m. and race day, Thursday, November 25 from 6 to 11 a.m. 

Register online at TurkeyTrot.com! Use promo code LOCALDISH and save $5 on registration. Code is valid until Nov. 22. Price increases for onsite registration at the Health & Wellness Expo on Wednesday, Nov. 24 and on race day, Thursday, Nov. 25. For event details, registration, and volunteer opportunities, visit TurkeyTrot.com.