Father Joe’s Thanksgiving Turkey Trot

Father Joe’s Villages Run for Hope Thanksgiving Day 5K 

Father Joe’s Villages presents San Diego’s favorite Thanksgiving tradition – The 24th Annual Run for Hope Thanksgiving Day 5K, presented by Aya Healthcare. 

Join thousands of runners in Balboa Park on Thursday, November 27, 2025, for San Diego’s original and longest-running Turkey Trot. This beloved community event benefits Father Joe’s Villages food services programs. As San Diego’s largest homeless service provider, Father Joe’s Villages provided nearly 700,000 meals in 2024 to neighbors overcoming homelessness. 

Join your neighbors to kick off Thanksgiving Day with community, fun, and a run that gives back! 

Event Highlights 

• Scenic 5K course through historic Balboa Park (View Course Map) 

• Choose between a timed, competitive 5K race or a fun run/walk/stroll option — perfect for all ages and abilities 

• Dog-friendly for non-competitive participants — add-on a custom bandana and Wag for Hope! 

• Kid’s area featuring family-friendly activities and photos with Santa and holiday characters 

• Donation-based beverage garden (21+) with local brews and non-alcoholic options 

• Live music, coffee trucks, photo booth, and local vendors in our memorable Race Day Festival 

• Awards ceremony celebrating top finishers and community supporters 

• Optional Sunrise Catholic Mass before the race 

Event Day Timeline 

• 6:00 a.m. – Optional Sunrise Mass (Plaza de Panama) 

• 6:15 a.m. – Registration & Check-In Open (Organ Pavilion) 

• 7:15 a.m. – Race Start (Cabrillo Bridge) 

• 7:45 a.m. – Post-Race Festival Begins (Plaza de Panama) 

• 8:30 a.m. – Awards Ceremony (Main Stage) 

• 10:00 a.m. – Festival Concludes

Participant Benefits 

All registered participants will enjoy: 

• Commemorative 2025 race t-shirt 

• Keepsake finisher medal 

• Complimentary race photos 

• Chip timing, live results, and age group awards (timed racers only) 

• Access to our Race Day Festival  

• The opportunity to give back — most of your registration fee is tax-deductible and directly supports Father Joe’s Villages programs for San Diegans overcoming homelessness 

• Access to referral and fundraising programs to earn rewards!  

• Team discounts available – Register with friends, family, neighbors, or coworkers and save while running together for a cause 

Why Run the Father Joe’s Villages Turkey Trot? 

• Give back to your community while celebrating Thanksgiving Start your holiday off right with fitness, fun, and family 

• Support a local nonprofit making a lasting impact in San Diego 

• Join the tradition — 24 years strong and still growing! 

Don’t Miss Out! 

Sign up before prices rise on November 17! Celebrate Thanksgiving morning with a 5K full of fun, community, and giving back.