Dana Point Turkey Trot celebrates its 48th year with a record number of runners

A holiday tradition for many in Orange County is one of the longest-running turkey trots in the country.

Some 12,000 runners turned out on Thursday morning, Nov. 27, for the Dana Point Turkey Trot around the harbor and along the coast, again selling out the annual race. This year’s event, which included a 10K, 5K and the 1-mile kids’ Gobble Wobble, was the 48th annual running.

The Dana Point Turkey Trot has become an Orange County institution. It’s known for its scenic route, including a segment that goes into Doheny State Beach, along the harbor island and out to near where the Spirit of Dana Point is docked at the Ocean Institute. All races start and finish at the entrance of the harbor.

Prize money is awarded to the first, second and third-place male and female finishers in the 10K race. Many runners dressed up in costumes, and awards went to the best kid, adult and group ensembles.

Over the years, the Turkey Trot has raised more than half a million dollars for local nonprofit organizations. This year, a portion of the proceeds is going to the Dana Point Historical Society, Dana Point Women’s Club and YMCA of Orange County.

As part of the efforts to support the Dana Point Women’s Club, new pajamas for foster children were collected for Project Foster.

This project has provided more than 3,100 new rolling duffel bags to foster youth in Orange County since 2023. Each case provides vulnerable kids with belongings to call their own and includes clothing essentials, personal care items, sheets, school supplies and comfort items like a handmade pillowcase, a blanket, books and toys.

Pajamas — which should not be holiday-themed — will still be collected, along with other items on their packing list, to include toiletries. Drop-off points are at the women’s clubhouse, 24642 San Juan Ave., and the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, 34183 Pacific Coast Highway. Both locations are in Dana Point.