Thousands Celebrate Thanksgiving at the 2025 Encinitas Turkey Trot

The annual **Encinitas Turkey Trot** drew a record crowd on **November 27, 2025**, with over **6,000 participants** taking part in various races and festivities. This year’s event featured a lively atmosphere as families, friends, and individuals dressed in festive costumes, raising funds to support **veterans** and local **Boy Scouts**.

Participants engaged in both **5K** and **10K** races, running along the scenic **Highway 101** and through downtown Encinitas. The community spirit was palpable, highlighted by creative costumes ranging from inflatable turkeys to whimsical food-themed outfits. The event not only encouraged physical activity but also fostered a sense of togetherness as residents celebrated Thanksgiving through sport and fun.

Among the notable participants were **Pania Golesstani** and **Charlotte Hawken**, who entertained the crowd in their inflatable turkey costumes while awaiting the results of the costume contests. The vibrant displays of creativity continued with **Karolyn Dorsee** and her daughter Debbie, who sported turkey hats, adding to the festive ambiance.

The **group costume contest** saw fierce competition, with **Ela** and **Joey Aguilar**, aged **9** and **7** respectively, winning **$300** for their turkey costumes. Their excitement was evident as they celebrated the victory with their mother, **Teryle Aguilar**, and father, **Steve Aguilar**.

In addition to the races, participants enjoyed a Thanksgiving meal, with **Kathleen Kenshur** seen preparing a cart filled with traditional food items. Children expressed delight at the festive offerings, with one young boy unable to resist reaching for a roll placed on a plate of Thanksgiving delicacies.

The event served not only as a race but also as a community gathering, bringing together individuals of all ages. Runners, such as those in turkey hats and even a few dressed as bananas, added to the festive spirit as they took off from the start line, embodying the event’s lighthearted nature.

As the sun rose over Encinitas, the enthusiasm for the **2025 Turkey Trot** was clear. Families like the **McCarver family**, who donned costumes of turkeys and pie, celebrated their second-place finish in the group contest, further emphasizing the joyous atmosphere of the day.

The **Encinitas Turkey Trot** continues to be a beloved tradition, showcasing not only the importance of health and fitness but also the power of community in supporting local initiatives. The funds raised during this year’s event will directly benefit those in need, reinforcing the spirit of giving that defines the Thanksgiving season.