Your guide to Thanksgiving dinners, turkey trots, Thanksgiving weekend events, and ways to give back throughout Orange County, California.
Thanksgiving lands on Thursday, Nov. 26 this year, and Orange County makes it easy to skip the dishes: four turkey trots that start before 9 a.m., turkey dinners from $55 a plate, and to-go feasts you can still order as late as Nov. 23.
Whether you want an oceanfront feast, a morning run along the coast, or something to do with the kids while they’re off school, here’s how to make the most of Thanksgiving week in Orange County.
Thanksgiving Week 2026 at a Glance
Date
What’s happening
Sat., Nov. 21 to Mon., Nov. 23
Order deadlines for Thanksgiving dinner to-go
Wed., Nov. 25
Thanksgiving Eve bar crawl in Downtown Costa Mesa
Thu., Nov. 26
Turkey trots in Huntington Beach, Dana Point, Irvine and Tustin, plus Thanksgiving dining
Where Are the Best Thanksgiving Turkey Trots in Orange County?
Want to earn that extra slice of pumpkin pie? Orange County’s Thanksgiving turkey trots are a great way to kick off the morning, whether you’re a serious runner or just want to get the family moving. All four run Thursday, November 26.
Huntington Beach Turkey Wobble. The 15th annual Wobble brings runners and walkers together near Pacific Coast Highway and Beach Boulevard for a run along our coastline. Beyond the exercise and ocean views, it supports clean-water projects worldwide: organizers report the event has funded 76 wells, bringing clean water to more than 66,000 people. It’s a great local tradition for Huntington Beach families looking to start Thanksgiving by giving back. If you’re local, it’s the easy pick: the start line sits at the bottom of Beach Boulevard, a straight shot down the street from our office.
Credit: hbturkeywobble.com
Dana Point Turkey Trot. Celebrating its 49th year, this is one of Southern California’s best-known Thanksgiving traditions. Harbor views, costumes and plenty of community spirit make it a fun experience for the whole family.
OC/Irvine Turkey Trot. The 14th annual race features a flat, stroller-friendly course with distances for all ages. And yes, finishers get pumpkin pie.
Turkey Trot OC. For a Thanksgiving tradition with an extra helping of purpose, proceeds from the 13th annual 5K help support Orange County Rescue Mission’s programs for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The event welcomes families, runners, walkers and leashed dogs.
Where Can You Eat Thanksgiving Dinner in Orange County?
Not interested in spending Thanksgiving in the kitchen? We don’t blame you.
From elegant coastal resorts to family-friendly holiday buffets, several Orange County restaurants are preparing special menus on Thursday, November 26, 2026.
Buffet 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.: carved turkey, prime rib, ham, seafood, pies
$57 per adult; $22 ages 2 to 12
Larger families who want plenty of options
More Thanksgiving Dining Options
Other Orange County restaurants with announced 2026 Thanksgiving offerings include:
Balboa Bay Resort, Newport Beach: Waterfront Thanksgiving brunch buffet.
Five Crowns, Corona del Mar: Traditional holiday dishes in an English-inspired setting.
Great Maple at Pixar Place Hotel, Anaheim: Thanksgiving prix-fixe dining near Disneyland.
The Cannery, Newport Beach: Three-course Thanksgiving dinner overlooking the harbor.
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel: Thanksgiving brunch buffet with coastal views.
Planning tip: Holiday reservations fill quickly. Check menus, children’s pricing, cancellation policies and availability directly with each restaurant before making plans.
Where Can You Order Thanksgiving Dinner To-Go in Orange County?
Want to host Thanksgiving at home without spending the entire day cooking? Several Orange County favorites are offering prepared holiday meals. They’re listed by order deadline, earliest first.
Restaurant
Location
What you get
Order by
Mother’s Market
Multiple OC locations
Holiday meals, sides, desserts and options for different dietary needs
Nov. 21
Urban Plates
Fountain Valley, Irvine and more
Turkey feast for 6 to 8, from $199.99 plus surcharge
Nov. 22
Bad to the Bone BBQ
San Juan Capistrano
Smoked Thanksgiving feast for 6 to 8, from $260
Nov. 22
Seasons 52
Costa Mesa
Heat-at-home Thanksgiving dinner for 4 to 6
Nov. 23
Buca di Beppo
Huntington Beach
Family-style feasts for smaller and larger gatherings
Check with the restaurant
You can also check your neighborhood grocery stores, including Gelson’s, Bristol Farms, Sprouts and Whole Foods, for prepared holiday menus.
Our tip: Confirm whether your dinner comes hot or chilled. Many packages require reheating, so plan oven space and pickup times accordingly.
Where Can You Celebrate Thanksgiving Eve in Orange County?
Thanksgiving Eve is a popular night for friends to reconnect before the holiday.
An organized bar crawl in Downtown Costa Mesa on Wednesday, November 25 will feature participating bars, drink specials, live entertainment and an after-party. This is a 21+ event, and participating venues and times should be confirmed with the organizer.
How Can You Give Back This Thanksgiving in Orange County?
Thanksgiving is also an opportunity to support neighbors who could use a helping hand.
One local organization worth highlighting is Orange County Rescue Mission in Tustin, which provides housing and supportive services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Running in its Turkey Trot, making a donation, or exploring volunteer opportunities are all ways to get involved. Learn more at the Orange County Rescue Mission.
Local food banks and community nonprofits also welcome support throughout the holiday season. Check with organizations directly for their current donation needs and volunteer availability.
How Should You Spend Thanksgiving Weekend in Orange County?
Still deciding how to spend the long weekend? Here are a few ideas.
If you’re…
Thursday
Friday to Sunday
A family with young kids
A morning turkey trot, then dinner at home
Newport Dunes or Tanaka Farms on Friday evening
A couple
Thanksgiving dinner at The Winery or Splashes
Holiday cocktails at Offshore 9 and a day exploring Newport Beach
Hosting visiting relatives
A trip to the coast and a traditional Thanksgiving meal
An evening at Winter Fest OC or Knott’s Merry Farm
Celebrating on a budget
A local turkey trot or coastal walk, then dinner at home
The free floating light displays at Newport Dunes
Lighting of the Bay, Hikari, Winter Fest OC and the rest of the season’s events are in our Orange County holiday lights and events guide.
Sometimes the simplest holiday traditions turn into the most memorable ones.
Happy Thanksgiving from the Sackin-Stone Team!
One of the things we love most about living in Orange County is how much there is to experience right here in our own backyard.
From turkey trots in Huntington Beach and Dana Point to oceanfront dinners in Laguna Beach and family gatherings throughout the county, there are so many ways to make this season special.
Whether you’re spending Thanksgiving at home, heading out for a memorable meal, or starting a new family tradition, we hope this guide helps you make the most of the holiday.
From all of us at the Sackin-Stone Team, Happy Thanksgiving!
Know of another Orange County Thanksgiving event we should add? We’d love to hear about it.
Event details, ticket prices, menus and availability are subject to change. Information updated November 8, 2026. Please confirm directly with organizers and restaurants before attending.
