Santa Cruz Turkey Trot

The Santa Rosa Turkey Trot assembles runners in Old Courthouse Square in Downtown Santa Rosa on Thanksgiving Day, regardless of weather. The primary event is a 5k beginning at 8:30 AM, with all participants starting simultaneously rather than in heats. A Tiny Turkey .05K follows at 9:30 AM for children aged 1 to 5, offering a short circuit around the square for the youngest participants before other holiday activities commence. The 5k route crosses downtown Santa Rosa, proceeds along Santa Rosa Creek, and concludes back at Old Courthouse Square. Participants who finish are given handcrafted wooden medals, and awards for age groups are presented on special finisher lanyards. The race benefits the Redwood Empire Food Bank, linking the Thanksgiving morning run to efforts addressing food insecurity in Santa Rosa and throughout Sonoma County. Its motto, "Wobble before you gobble!", reflects the relaxed, family-oriented nature of the event.