Santa Cruz Turkey Trot

Santa Cruz Turkey Trot takes place in Santa Cruz, California, on November 21, 2026, with three formats on the morning schedule: the Kids 1K at 7:45 a.m., the 5K (3.1 miles) at 8:00 a.m., and the 10K (6.2 miles) at 8:30 a.m. The courses are out-and-back routes with views of the ocean, and there are options for both adults and children. Finishers of certain distances receive commemorative socks, and prizes are awarded to the top participants.

An out-and-back course with ocean views makes the 10K a pleasant late-fall goal for a runner stepping up from the 5K: six to eight weeks with a weekly long run of 5 to 7 miles and one moderate-effort session will get you there comfortably. The 5K suits anyone looking for a fast, festive effort before Thanksgiving, as well as walkers and beginners, while the Kids 1K gives the youngest runners their own start. On an out-and-back, aim to run the second half at least as strong as the first, and keep breakfast light before the early start.