Big Bear Lake Thanksgiving Turkey Trot
Start Date
11-26-26
End Date
11-26-26
Time
8:00 AM check-in • 9:30 AM race start • Event through approximately 11:00 AM
Cost
Adults $43.40 • Youth under 18 $25 • Children under 5 free with signed waiver
Location
Dank Donuts
42612 Moonridge Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
At A Glance
About
Big Bear Lake Thanksgiving Turkey Trot
The Big Bear Lake Thanksgiving Turkey Trot is a Thanksgiving morning tradition that gives visitors and locals a chance to get outside before the holiday meal. The 2026 event is a family-friendly 3-mile run or walk based at Dank Donuts in the Moonridge corridor. The paved course is designed to be approachable for a wide range of participants rather than only experienced runners. Costumes are encouraged, and the event includes race timing, age-group awards and a costume contest. Proceeds support local food pantries, adding a community-giving component to the Thanksgiving tradition.
What to Expect
Race-day registration and check-in open at 8 AM at Dank Donuts. A holiday warm-up is scheduled shortly before the 3-mile Turkey Trot begins at 9:30 AM. After finishing, participants can stay for the Thanksgiving morning celebration, with awards and the costume contest scheduled later in the morning. Paid registrations include a custom shirt, commemorative medal, race bib and timing, along with eligibility for age-group awards and costume prizes. This is designed as a fun run or walk, so you do not need to be a competitive runner to participate.
Parking & Getting There
The 2026 Turkey Trot starts and finishes at Dank Donuts, 42612 Moonridge Rd in Big Bear Lake. Because participants will be arriving in the same morning window, allow extra time for parking, check-in and walking to the start area. Do not plan to arrive at 9:30 AM for a 9:30 AM start; race-day check-in opens at 8 AM and closes before the race. If you are staying nearby in Moonridge, walking to the start may be easier than moving your vehicle on Thanksgiving morning.
Make a Day of It
The Turkey Trot finishes in the morning, leaving the rest of Thanksgiving Day open. After the race, head back for Thanksgiving brunch or dinner, take a relaxed lake walk, or spend time around Big Bear before your holiday meal. If you are staying for the full weekend, the Turkey Trot also works well as the start of a longer Thanksgiving trip, with The Village and the beginning of Big Bear's holiday-season activities nearby. Check weather, road conditions and individual attraction hours before making Thanksgiving Day plans because holiday schedules can differ from normal operating hours.
Good To Know
Thanksgiving mornings in Big Bear can be cold, and mountain weather can change quickly, so dress in layers you can comfortably run or walk in. Costumes are encouraged, but choose something that will not interfere with movement or visibility. Packet pickup is available November 23–25 from 4–7 PM at The Yellow Post, 546 Pine Knot Blvd, or on race morning from 8–9 AM at Dank Donuts. Pricing increases after November 24 at 11:59 PM. Children under 5 may participate free with a signed waiver, but only paid registrations receive race items.
Event Information Disclaimer: Event dates, times, locations, pricing, schedules and other details can change without notice. Discover Big Bear Lake provides this information as a visitor resource and is not responsible for changes, cancellations or inaccuracies. Always confirm current details with the event organizer or official event source before attending.
Quick Notes
Event Type
Sports, Holiday, Family, Outdoor, Community
Best For
Families • Runners • Walkers • Thanksgiving visitors • Costumes • Outdoor activities
Event Season
Fall
Event Status
Upcoming
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Big Bear Turkey Trot in 2026?
The Big Bear Lake Thanksgiving Turkey Trot is Thursday, November 26, 2026. Race-day check-in opens at 8 AM and the 3-mile run or walk begins at 9:30 AM.
How long is the Big Bear Turkey Trot?
The 2026 event is promoted as a 3-mile fun run or walk. The paved course is designed to be approachable for runners and walkers, including families and visitors who are not competitive racers.
Where does the Big Bear Turkey Trot start?
The 2026 Turkey Trot starts and finishes at Dank Donuts, 42612 Moonridge Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315.
How much is the Big Bear Turkey Trot?
Published 2026 pricing is $43.40 for adults and $25 for youth under 18. Children under age 5 may participate free with a parent or guardian signing a waiver. Prices increase after November 24 at 11:59 PM.
Can kids participate in the Big Bear Turkey Trot?
Yes. The Turkey Trot is family-friendly and open to all ages. Children under 5 may participate free with a signed waiver, although only paid registrations receive the shirt, medal, bib and other race items.
