Run, Walk, or Trot for a Cause at Father Joe’s Villages Thanksgiving 5K

San Diego’s most beloved Thanksgiving tradition returns to Balboa Park, and it’s about more than just burning calories before the big meal.

The 24th Annual Thanksgiving Day 5K brings thousands of San Diegans together to walk, run, or trot – some in turkey-themed costumes – to support neighbors struggling with food insecurity and homelessness.

A Race With Real Impact

The event, presented by Aya Healthcare, kicks off at 7:15 AM with a goal of raising $550,000 to support Father Joe’s Villages’ food services.

On any given night in San Diego, nearly 10,000 people experience homelessness, and many face the impossible choice between feeding their families and covering other costs in one of the country’s most expensive cities.

All proceeds from the 5K go directly toward providing meals for individuals and families who need them most.

Generous support from sponsors, including Aya Healthcare as Presenting Sponsor, Qualcomm Foundation as Visionary Corporate Partner, and Alsco Uniforms as Finish Line Sponsor, helps maximize the event’s impact.

More Than Just a Run

After crossing the finish line, the real celebration begins at Plaza de Panama. Live music, a beverage garden, and family-friendly activities like pictures with Santa keep the morning festive.

Father Joe’s Villages retail team will have a pop-up thrift store on site, and you can purchase bread loaves made by students in the Culinary Arts Program – flavors include pumpkin, blueberry cardamom, and apple cinnamon.

For those who want to start the day with reflection, there’s an optional sunrise Catholic Mass at 6 AM in Plaza De Panama with San Diego’s Auxiliary Bishops.

See you there!

You can register online or in person on the day of the race. If you can’t make it but still want to help, donations are accepted online and go toward the same critical food programs.

📆 Thursday, November 27 | Race 7:15 AM, Mass 6 AM
🎟️ Register here
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!