2026 Sacramento Turkey Trots & Thanksgiving Activities
Thanksgiving 2026 in Greater Sacramento: Local Turkey Trot Race Roundup, Favorite Treats & Cozy Recipes
Your guide to Thanksgiving fun around Sacramento, Folsom, Roseville, Granite Bay and beyond.
Thanksgiving is almost here, and whether your ideal holiday starts with a 5K or a second cup of coffee, there's plenty to enjoy around Greater Sacramento.
From community Turkey Trots supporting local charities to delicious baked goods worth a trip up to Placerville, I've rounded up a few ways to make the most of the season.
Thanksgiving Turkey Trots & Fun Runs Around Sacramento
You don't have to be a serious runner to enjoy a Turkey Trot! Many of these events welcome walkers, families and kids, and support organizations doing great work in our communities. Here's a quick list so you can find one that fits your day:
Sacramento: Run to Feed the Hungry
Thursday, November 26
5K at 9:00 AM
10K at 8:15 AM
One of Sacramento's biggest Thanksgiving traditions, Run to Feed the Hungry brings thousands of people together to support Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services.
The course winds through East Sacramento, making it a great way to start the holiday while giving back to the community.
Folsom: Folsom Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 26
5K at 9:10 AM
10K at 8:50 AM
Folsom's annual Turkey Trot is a family-friendly favorite held near Rodeo Park and Lions Park. Proceeds and donations support local causes, including Twin Lakes Food Bank, youth scholarships and local trails.
Participants can run or walk, and there's a food drive if you'd like to contribute directly.
Roseville: Roseville Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 26
5K at 9:05 AM
10K at 9:00 AM
Starting and finishing at Vernon Street Town Square, Roseville's Turkey Trot is a fun way to enjoy downtown before Thanksgiving festivities begin.
Participants are also encouraged to bring nonperishable food donations for Saint Vincent de Paul's local food assistance program.
Granite Bay: The Wild Turkey
Thursday, November 26
5K at 9:15 AM
10K at 9:00 AM
If you'd rather spend Thanksgiving morning near the lake, The Wild Turkey takes place at Beals Point in the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area.
There's a 5K, 10K and a free 1K kids' race. The event supports Folsom's Hope.
Granite Bay: Granite Bay Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 26
3K at 8:00 AM
6K at 7:30 AM
Another Granite Bay option, this event starts at Granite Bay High School and offers shorter 3K and 6K distances.
It's a good choice for anyone who wants an earlier start so they can get to cooking or traveling!
Elk Grove: Gobble Wobble
Thursday, November 26
Kids' Fun Run at 9:00 AM
5K at 9:15 AM
Elk Grove's Gobble Wobble offers a festive morning of running, walking and family activities.
The event benefits Chicks in Crisis, a local organization supporting families and children.
Lincoln: Huffin' for the Stuffin'
Thursday, November 26
Kids' Donut Dash at 8:00 AM
5K at 8:30 AM
Lincoln's Thanksgiving tradition includes a timed 5K and an adorable Donut Dash for children ages 4–7.
Proceeds benefit the City of Lincoln Recreation Scholarship Fund, helping local families participate in recreation programs.
Woodland: Woodland Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 26
10K at 8:00 AM
5K at 8:10 AM
Family 1K at 8:20 AM
The Woodland Turkey Trot has something for just about everyone, including a shorter family walk.
The event supports Yolo Food Bank and offers a nice opportunity to spend Thanksgiving morning together while supporting a local cause.
Davis: Davis Turkey Trot
Saturday, November 21
Multiple distances beginning at 7:50 AM
Want to get your run in before Thanksgiving Day? The Davis Turkey Trot takes place the Saturday before the holiday.
With a half marathon, 10K, 5K, shorter runs and kids' events, it's one of the area's most varied race options.
Not a Runner? Here Are a Few Other Ways to Enjoy the Season
Not everyone wants to start Thanksgiving with a race! If your idea of a great holiday morning involves warm bread, cinnamon and a good cup of coffee, here are a few of my ideas.
A Local Favorite: Sweetie Pie's in Placerville
One of my favorite local treats is the cinnamon raisin bread from Sweetie Pie's in downtown Placerville- it's amazing! You can order a slice warm with a meal alongside their delicious homemade jam or you can grab a frozen loaf to bring home to enjoy or share at a holiday gathering.
If you're heading up to Apple Hill to shop the holiday markets, grab a Christmas tree, or just spending an afternoon exploring Main Street, I highly recommend making a stop.
Sweetie Pie's is located in a historic Victorian home, it's a great place to stop for breakfast, coffee or something sweet.
Sweetie Pie's
577 Main Street, Placerville, CA 95667
Prefer to Bake at Home? Try These Two Recipes
If you're staying in this season, here are a couple of cozy recipes that would be great for a Thanksgiving morning breakfast or holiday weekend treat.
1. Our Favorite Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
This pumpkin bread has become a favorite in our house! It's soft, moist, full of warm fall spices, and has plenty of chocolate chips. The recipe makes two loaves, so it's perfect for sharing with family and friends or freezing one for later.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe
2. Apple Cardamom Muffins
If you love cinnamon but want to try something a little different, cardamom is worth adding to your fall baking list. These muffins combine fresh apples with fragrant cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a cozy breakfast that's warm and a bit unique. They're a great option for Thanksgiving morning or a weekend at home.
Enjoy Thanksgiving Around Greater Sacramento
Whether you're running a 10K, walking with the family, visiting a favorite local bakery or relaxing at home, I hope you find a little time to enjoy everything this season has to offer.
I'm always happy to share local recommendations, and I'd love to hear about your favorite Thanksgiving traditions around Sacramento.
Wishing you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Alan Schiller
Local Realtor
Sacramento, Folsom, El Dorado Hills & Surrounding Communities
Redfin Real Estate | DRE #02131732
916-233-9494
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