O’side Turkey Trot Celebrates 20 Years this Thanksgiving Day

June 18, 2025

Beloved Oceanside tradition opens registration with a new charitable partnership and community-focused fun run

Oceanside, CA (June 18, 2025) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – Lace up those running shoes and mark your calendars—registration for the 20th Annual O’side Turkey Trot, produced by San Diego Running Co., is officially open! Taking place Thanksgiving morning, November 27, 2025, this year’s milestone event invites participants to celebrate two decades of fitness, family, and philanthropy along one of the most scenic race courses in the country.

Recognized as one of the Top Turkey Trots in the U.S. by Runner’s World Magazine and the Los Angeles Times, the O’side Turkey Trot draws thousands of participants from 46 states and over 500 cities to its beachside 5K course, which starts on Coast Highway and finishes along the Pacific Ocean behind the amphitheater on The Strand. With coastal views, flat terrain, and festive energy, it’s a Thanksgiving tradition perfect for all ages and paces.

“Reaching our 20th year is an incredible milestone—not just for the race, but for the entire Oceanside community,” said Eric Marenburg, Chief Running Officer and Co-Founder of San Diego Running Co. “Over the past two decades, the O’side Turkey Trot has grown into more than just a race—it’s become a cherished Thanksgiving tradition that brings families, friends, and neighbors together while giving back to local causes. We’re honored to continue building on that legacy in 2025.”

New in 2025: Partnership with the San Diego Food Bank

This year marks the start of a new community partnership with the San Diego Food Bank, the region’s leading hunger-relief organization. A portion of proceeds from the Trot will directly support the Food Bank’s mission to provide nutritious food to people in need, advocate for the hungry, and educate the public about hunger-related issues.

“We’re incredibly grateful to be this year’s featured nonprofit partner,” said Casey Castillo, San Diego Food Bank CEO. “With the holidays being a particularly challenging time for many families, the Trot’s support will go a long way in helping us ensure no one goes hungry this Thanksgiving.”

Supporting the Community, One Step at a Time

In addition to the San Diego Food Bank, participants can choose to donate a portion of their registration to their favorite local charity or school, which continues to be a cornerstone of the event. To date, the O’side Turkey Trot has raised over $500,000 for North County-based nonprofits and schools.

Double the Fun with the “Double Dip Challenge”

Back by popular demand, the Double Dip Challenge lets ambitious runners take on both 5K waves (6:45 AM and 8:05 AM), earning three medals: one for each race and a third exclusive Double Dip medal—because the only time it’s okay to double dip on Thanksgiving is at the O’side Turkey Trot!

Additional race day events include:

• Kids 1 Mile (ages 7–12)
• Kids 1/5 Mile (ages 6 & under)
• Costume contest
• Free participant photos
• Live music and entertainment along the course
• Finisher medals, tech tees, and live results for all registered runners

Race week festivities also include the O’side Turkey Trot Health & Fitness Expo on November 26, where runners can pick up their packets, explore local vendors, and soak up the pre-race excitement. The Largest Team Competition returns, with $100 gift cards awarded to the five largest teams of 20+ members.

For more information, registration details, and early bird pricing, visit www.osideturkeytrot.com and follow the race on Instagram and Facebook at @osideturkeytrot.

About San Diego Running Co.

San Diego Running Co. is an experience-based event company dedicated to bringing communities together through unique races that celebrate movement and local culture. Signature events include the San Diego Santa Run, Pacific Beach Half Marathon & 5K, and the San Diego Resolution Run. Learn more at www.sandiegorunningco.com.