Thanksgiving in Coastal Delaware isn’t just about turkey and pie, it’s also a time to hit the road for a good cause. 

Each year, locals and tourists lace up their running shoes to join holiday-themed races that combine fitness, community spirit, and charitable giving. 

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for some family fun before the big feast, these events offer the perfect mix of energy and gratitude.

Check out our selection of some of the best runs & fun walks happening around Coastal Delaware near the holiday of Thanksgiving!

Irish Eyes Friendsgiving 5K Run/Walk in Honor of Don Johnson

Start your Thanksgiving morning in Lewes with the 2nd Annual Friendsgiving 5K Run/Walk, hosted by Irish Eyes Pub & Restaurant. 

This festive event celebrates community, friendship, and the memory of longtime bartender Don Johnson, with proceeds benefiting the Home of the Brave and Toys for Tots programs. 

Participants can choose between the live race in Lewes or a virtual run, where you can do the course from anywhere in the world.

For those coming from out of town who still want to join the event, there’s a VIP option available. 

This ticket includes race entry plus a discounted stay at the Beacon Inn, along with exclusive hotel perks included in the package.

Kids can also take part in the fun with the “Lil Turkey Dash,” a short race held just before the main event.

Runners and walkers will receive long-sleeve shirts, and awards will be given in several categories. After, they can enjoy a lively post-race celebration at the Irish Eyes. 

• Date: Thursday, November 27th
• Time: 5K race starts at 9am; “Lil Turkey” Dash starts at 8:40am
• Location: Irish Eyes Pub & Restaurant, 213 Anglers Road, Lewes
• Cost: $30-$50 (“Lil Turkey” Dash is free)

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Bank of Ocean City Bethany-Fenwick Turkey Trot

Formerly known as the Fenwick Island Turkey Trot, this two-mile fun run and walk brings the holiday spirit to downtown Bethany Beach. 

Expect costumes, laughter, and plenty of community energy as families, friends, and even pets join the race.

The event kicks off with packet pickup on Wednesday, November 26th, from 4 to 5:30pm at Harvest Tide Steakhouse, where participants can grab their shirts and bibs early to avoid the morning rush. 

Race-day pickup will also be available from 7:30 to 8:45am at the Bethany Beach Bandstand, followed by pre-race announcements at 8:45 a.m. and the run start at 9 a.m. 

Entertainment will be ongoing at the bandstand from 8 to 10:30am, featuring DJ Rupe and an interactive juggling show by Cascading Carlos.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, organizers remind participants that dogs are welcome, but must be on a non-retractable leash no longer than six feet. 

Strollers are also allowed, but should start toward the back of the pack to avoid blocking other runners. 

For safety reasons, headphones are strongly discouraged. The event encourages a headphone-free environment to help runners enjoy the music, atmosphere, and camaraderie.

Proceeds benefit the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company and other local charities, making this Turkey Trot a celebration that truly gives back to the community.

• Date: Thursday, November 27th
• Time: Race Starts at 9am
• Location: Garfield Parkway & Atlantic Avenue, directly behind the Bandstand
• Cost: $35

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Huffin’ for Pumpkin Pie 5k Run & 1m Walk

Burn off some calories at the 16th Annual Huffin’ for Pumpkin Pie in Rehoboth Beach. Hosted by Seashore Striders, this popular event supports the local Toys for Tots program in partnership with Apple Electric.

Participants can choose between a 5K run or a 1-mile walk, both starting and finishing at Grove Park. 

The event is chip timed using the Chronotrack B system for the 5K, while the 1-mile walk is a non-competitive, untimed option for those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Runners will enjoy a fast and flat course, long-sleeve shirts, and custom awards for overall, masters, and top finishers across multiple age divisions, from under 9 to 80 and up. 

Awards not collected on race day can be arranged for local pickup or mailed for a small fee.

The atmosphere is festive and family-friendly, complete with water stations, portable restrooms, and post-race celebrations at the nearby Rehoboth Farmers Market. 

Packet pickup is held in advance at Grove Park, and race-day registration is available for those making last-minute plans.

Parking is conveniently located near the start and finish area, and early registrants are guaranteed race swag, including event shirts. 

Whether you’re a competitive runner or just joining for fun, this Seashore Striders event offers a perfect blend of fitness, community, and holiday cheer. All while supporting a great cause.

• Date: Saturday, November 29th
• Time: Race starts at 9am
• Location: Grove Park, 1 Grove Park, Rehoboth Beach
• Cost: $25-$35

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Sea Colony Turkey Trot 5k Run & Walk

Round out Thanksgiving weekend with the Sea Colony Turkey Trot, a beloved post-holiday tradition in Bethany Beach. 

Set against the scenic backdrop of the Sea Colony community, this 5K invites runners and walkers of all ages to enjoy the fresh ocean air, coastal views, and festive energy while supporting meaningful local causes.

Proceeds benefit Special Olympics Delaware, helping fund uniforms, training, and equipment for local athletes, as well as Delaware Womenade, Inc., which provides aid to women and children affected by domestic violence.

The race begins and ends at the Sea Colony Freeman Fitness Center and features professional chip timing, age-group awards, and refreshments for participants after they finish. 

The first 200 registrants receive custom short-sleeve race shirts, and awards are given to the overall, masters, and top three finishers in each age group from under 9 to 80 and above.

Plenty of parking is available throughout the Sea Colony community, and participants can register online or in person before the race begins. 

With its friendly atmosphere, smooth organization, and strong sense of purpose, the Sea Colony Turkey Trot is the perfect way to close out a weekend of Thanksgiving celebrations.

• Date: Sunday, November 30th
• Time: Race starts at 9am
• Location: Sea Colony Freeman Fitness Center, 38994 Westway Drive, Bethany Beach
• Cost: $30-$35

Please note that all race registration fees may vary depending on the date and proximity to the events listed, and all details of these events could change leading up to the event at the discretion of the event hosts/organizers.

Make Thanksgiving Count, One Step at a Time

No matter which race you choose, each stride helps strengthen the Coastal Delaware community while celebrating one of the most heartwarming holidays of the year.

So grab your sneakers, gather your friends and family, and join. Because nothing pairs better with Thanksgiving than a little fresh air and gratitude.

Follow our blog for more upcoming events, holiday happenings, and local stories from all across the beautiful Coastal Delaware!