Encinitas knows how to celebrate Thanksgiving, but if you’re hoping to catch a massive turkey balloon floating down Coast Highway 101, you’ll need to wait until December for the town’s beloved Holiday Parade. The good news? Encinitas trades marching bands for something better: beachside Turkey Trots, community gatherings, and coastal celebrations that make Thanksgiving feel like the relaxed, joyful holiday it should be.
Start Your Morning at Moonlight Beach
Why watch floats when you can run alongside the Pacific Ocean? The Encinitas Turkey Trot on November 27 kicks off Thanksgiving morning at Moonlight Beach with 5K and 10K races that attract hundreds of locals in turkey costumes and festive gear. Registration opens at 6:00 AM, with the 10K starting at 7:30 AM and the Kids K at 7:40 AM. Proceeds support local charities, including the Boy Scouts of America and the Veterans Association of North County. Even if running isn’t your thing, the costume contest and cheerful crowd energy make this a perfect way to start the holiday.
Community Celebrations Worth Your Time
Before Thanksgiving Day, Encinitas hosts several gatherings that capture the season’s grateful spirit. The Friendsgiving Celebration on November 20 at the Encinitas Community and Senior Center brings neighbors together for live music, seasonal food, and mingling from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Tickets run $15 to $25, and a portion of the proceeds supports local charities.
Three days later, the Encinitas Holiday Street Fair transforms Coast Highway 101 into a festival marketplace on November 23 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Over 200 vendors sell handcrafted gifts, gourmet foods, and artisan products while live music fills the air. Parking fills quickly, so aim for City Hall, Moonlight Beach lots, or the Coaster Station early.
Fresh Finds for Your Feast
The Leucadia Farmers Market hosts a Thanksgiving special on November 23 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Leucadia Roadside Park. Local farmers bring fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and handmade gifts perfect for your holiday table or as hostess presents. Arrive early for the best selection and support small businesses while planning a farm-to-table Thanksgiving meal.
Evening Magic and Thanksgiving Eve Fun
For something truly special, Lightscape at San Diego Botanic Garden runs from November 15 through January 5 with illuminated pathways and artistic light displays from dusk until evening. Tickets range from $13 to $34, depending on timing, and timed entry is required.
Encinitas may skip the parade floats, but the town delivers Thanksgiving joy through ocean views, community spirit, and celebrations that feel authentically coastal California. Whether you’re running at sunrise or browsing local vendors, the gratitude here feels real.
Sources: encinitasca.gov, encinitasturkeytrot.org, eventbrite.co.uk, sandiego.org, kmcoastal.com
Header Image Source: David Trinks on Unsplash
