Although the Coachella Valley may not have the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to boast of, there are still plenty of events to get you out of the house and into the holiday spirit.
Here are some of the events you can enjoy with your family on and around Thanksgiving.
Palm Springs Wild Turkey Trot 5K
It’s called a trot, but you can go at your own pace, and even bring a stroller. This inclusive workout is a holiday staple in Palm Springs, starting early in the morning to give attendees a chance to work up their appetite.
The race begins promptly at 8 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 27, at the corner of East Tahquitz Canyon Way and South Palm Canyon Drive, located at 100 N. Palm Canyon Dr. The 3.1-mile event proceeds south through downtown Palm Springs before turning around and returning to the original starting block.
Participants are known to dress up in festive gear, so come prepared. But as of Tuesday, Nov. 25, the event is all sold out.
Martha’s Village & Kitchen’s 19th Annual Thanksgiving Day 5K
This annual event supports local homeless services provider Martha’s Village and Kitchen.
Taking place at 8 a.m., at 73545 El Paseo in Palm Desert, the event draws thousands hoping to contribute to a good cause while working up an appetite.
As of Tuesday afternoon, two days before the race, more than 2,500 people had signed up and over $5,300 had been raised. Participation costs between $44.25 and $54.25.
More information can be found at runsignup.com/Race/CA/PalmDesert/MarthasVillageThanksgivingDay5K.
Holiday lights
The Coachella Valley is home to at least two festive holiday lights attractions. During the holiday season, both the Empire Polo Club and The Living Desert host colorful events that light up the night sky.
The Living Desert hosts WildLights from from 6 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 25 to Dec. 30 at 47900 Portola Ave in Palm Desert, although it skips Thanksgiving.
Meanwhile, further down the valley the Empire Polo Club in Indio hosts Magic of Lights from Nov. 10 to Dec. 31. The holiday lights are experienced from the comfort of a car during this relatively new holiday event.
Photos with Santa
The Gardens on El Paseo host a photo opportunity with Santa Claus on from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 29.
The free event includes a bounce house, snow shoes and story time with Mrs. Claus.
Sam Morgen covers the city of Palm Springs for The Desert Sun. Reach him at smorgen@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Need something to do on Thanksgiving? Events in Palm Springs area
Reporting by Sam Morgen, Palm Springs Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
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