Though the bulk of local Thanksgiving events will be taking place in Los Angeles, this doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of things going on in the San Fernando Valley. Referred to as simply “The Valley” by locals, this LA-adjacent county has much to offer when it comes to Thanksgiving. From turkey trots and brunches to food drives and serving dinner to the homeless, residents have plenty of ways to stay involved in their community this Thanksgiving.

Here are six Thanksgiving events happening throughout the Valley.

North Hills — 19th Annual Family Thanksgiving Feast

North Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles

If you’re looking to help out the homeless and hungry this Thanksgiving, check out the 19th Annual Family Thanksgiving Feast in North Hills on November 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event is hosted by the San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission, a non-profit organization aiming to assist those in need.

The San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission will transport hundreds of guests to the center. Long tables will be dressed in linens and flowers, featuring traditional Thanksgiving dishes, including mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, and of course—a plump turkey. There will also be live music for entertainment.

On top of enjoying a Thanksgiving meal, guests will also be able to use the facility’s on-site shower program and receive helpful resources from the Child Development Institute, Child Care Resource Center, El Proyecto Del Barrio, and the San Fernando Valley Partnership. 

Van Nuys — The Great Thanksgiving Banquet

Van Nuys neighborhood of Los Angeles

Another opportunity to help the homeless and hungry is at The Great Thanksgiving Banquet in Van Nuys on November 21 from noon to 2 p.m. Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission will be celebrating its annual Thanksgiving tradition by transporting hundreds of people in need from all over the Valley to enjoy a gourmet Thanksgiving meal at their center. This event is made possible by volunteers and sponsors.

In addition to eating a Thanksgiving meal, the event will also offer live entertainment. All guests will be invited to attend a street fair, which will give away sleeping bags, blankets, socks, haircuts, toothbrushes, medical exams, fresh fruits and veggies, and much more. 

Van Nuys — Lake Balboa Turkey Trot

Van Nuys neighborhood of Los Angeles

If you’re looking to burn a few calories before stuffing yourself with turkey, head towards Lake Balboa Park in Van Nuys. This year, the park will host the Lake Balboa Turkey Trot, featuring a 5K walk or run as well as a fun “1K Gobble Gobble” for the kids. All runners, including children in the “1K Gobble Gobble” run will receive a medal.

After participants get their vigorous cardio in, the event will offer several after-race festivities and kid-friendly activities. This event will take place on November 22, with registration from 6:45 a.m. to 8:20 a.m. The 5K run starts at 8:30 a.m., and the 1K kids fun run starts at 9:30 a.m.

Studio City — Thanksgiving Drumstick Dash and Lil Gobblers’ Run

Studio City neighborhood park

Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission will also host this year’s Thanksgiving Drumstick Dash and Lil Gobblers’ Run in Studio City at the CBS Studios Lot. This family-friendly event, which has its motto as “Move Your Feet So Others Can Eat,” will hold a 5K and a 10K race to raise funds for the homeless living in the San Fernando Valley. 

This event will take place Thanksgiving morning on November 22, and after the race, participants can enjoy some food and refreshments. The 5K and 10K races will begin at 8:30 a.m. The Lil Gobblers’ Run for the tots will start at 10 a.m.

Glendale — Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet and Food Drive

Glendale's neighborhood welcome sign

In Glendale, The Chevy Chase Country Club will host its Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet and Food Drive. For those who are interested in donating and raising money for families in need, the event will be a “virtual food drive.” Aiming to raise $1,000, this event welcomes donations for the country club’s local food bank, Feeding America.

All donations and a percentage of the brunch sales will go towards the food bank. The actual buffet will feature traditional Thanksgiving dishes, an assortment of original seasonal selections, and even bottomless-beverage packages. This event will take place on November 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Burbank — YMCA Thanksgiving Turkey Trot

Burbank neighborhood of Los Angeles

Spend Thanksgiving morning in Burbank this year at the YMCA Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, which is open to all—including your pets. Whether you’re walking, running, or pushing a stroller, there are several runs happening throughout the day, allowing everyone to get involved. The family-friendly event will offer free parking, tech t-shirts, free medals for runners, a kids fun zone, and a pre-race expo.

All of the proceeds from the race will go towards supporting the YMCA Financial Assistance Program for residents in the community. This event will start on November 22 at 7:30 a.m.