The 5th Annual Port Street Turkey Trot
Run. Walk. Gobble. Give. Join your Harbor View Homes neighbors for a cherished Thanksgiving morning tradition that brings our community together before the big feast!
Event Schedule & Details
Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 27, 2025! The Port Street Turkey Trot kicks off bright and early on Thanksgiving morning, giving families a fun way to burn some calories before the big meal. Whether you're a seasoned runner or prefer a leisurely walk with the stroller, everyone is welcome to participate in this free, family-friendly neighborhood gathering.
The morning begins with our beloved Kids Fun-Run, a one-kilometer route designed especially for our youngest participants. Children of all ages are encouraged to join—whether they're running on their own two feet, being pushed in strollers, or holding hands with parents and grandparents. At 8:30 AM sharp, we'll gather together for the singing of the National Anthem, a moment that reminds us of the gratitude and community spirit that Thanksgiving represents.
The main 5K run/walk kicks off at 8:40 AM, taking participants on a beautiful loop through the Port Streets neighborhood. This isn't a timed race with competition in mind—it's about moving together, chatting with neighbors you haven't seen in a while, and soaking in the crisp autumn morning air. Out-of-town guests visiting for the holiday are especially welcome to experience what makes Harbor View Homes such a special place to call home.

Important: This is a free, informal neighborhood fun-run with no official registration required. Simply show up on Thanksgiving morning ready to have fun! There are no road closures, timing chips, or race infrastructure. Participants run or walk at their own risk and must obey all traffic laws.
A Neighborhood Tradition Born from Community Spirit
The Port Street Turkey Trot has a special origin story that perfectly captures the resilient, community-focused spirit of Harbor View Homes. In 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of traditional Thanksgiving races across the country, local resident Chase Rigby refused to let the holiday pass without celebrating the joy of running together.
Chase mapped out a route through our neighborhood streets and invited neighbors to join him for an informal fun-run on Thanksgiving morning. What started as a small gathering of families who wanted to maintain their race-day tradition has blossomed into an annual event that now welcomes hundreds of participants each year.
Harbor View Homes—affectionately known as the Port Streets—is the perfect setting for this kind of grassroots community event. Our neighborhood is characterized by its nautically themed street names, family-oriented atmosphere, and genuine sense of togetherness. It's the kind of place where kids play outside until dusk, neighbors pop into each other's houses without needing an invitation, and everyone knows each other by name.
The neighborhood's design naturally encourages outdoor activity and community connection. A central greenway with walking paths winds through the area, connecting residents to nearby Bonita Canyon Sports Park and Harbor View Nature Park. You'll always see kids riding bikes, families walking dogs, and impromptu basketball games in driveways. This open-door culture and love of outdoor life make the Turkey Trot feel like a natural extension of our everyday neighborhood spirit.
Year One: 2020
Chase Rigby creates the route during lockdown, inviting a handful of neighbors to run
Growing Together
Word spreads through the Port Streets as families discover the joy of this informal tradition
Fifth Anniversary
Now celebrating our 5th year as a cherished Thanksgiving morning ritual for the community
What makes the Port Street Turkey Trot so special is precisely what makes it not an official race. There are no entry fees, no timing chips, no finisher medals, and no competitive atmosphere. Instead, you'll find parents pushing double strollers, teenagers running alongside grandparents, friendly dogs on leashes, and neighbors catching up while they walk. It's inclusive, relaxed, and genuinely fun—a celebration of movement and community rather than personal records or podium places.
The Turkey Trot embodies everything wonderful about Harbor View Homes: the welcoming spirit, the emphasis on family and fitness, and the understanding that sometimes the best events are the ones organized by neighbors, for neighbors. It's become a tradition that visiting relatives look forward to experiencing and a memory that local families treasure year after year.
Course Map & Safety Information
The Port Street Turkey Trot follows a scenic 5-kilometer loop through the heart of Harbor View Homes, showcasing the neighborhood's tree-lined streets, well-maintained greenways, and beautiful family homes. The route has been carefully designed to be safe, accessible, and enjoyable for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities.
The course begins and ends at the Andersen Teachers' Parking Lot, located on Port Seabourne Way. The route takes you by of our community's beloved green spaces: These landmarks provide natural waypoints and familiar sights for participants who know the neighborhood well, while giving visitors a wonderful introduction to what makes our community so livable and lovely.
Start & Finish Location
The Turkey Trot staging area is set up at Andersen Elementary on Port Seabourne Way. This central location offers easy access from all corners of the neighborhood and provides a natural gathering point for participants before and after the run.
Parking Suggestions
Please consider parking at:
  • Street parking (please be courteous to residents)
If you live nearby, we encourage you to walk or bike to reduce congestion!
Important Safety Reminders
This is not a permitted race with road closures. Runners and walkers share the streets with vehicle traffic throughout the entire course. Please follow these guidelines:
  • Use sidewalks whenever possible
  • Obey all traffic signals and crosswalks
  • Watch for cars at driveways and intersections
  • Keep children close and hold hands when needed
  • Be courteous to residents whose homes line the route
  • Bring water and dress for the weather

Participation Disclaimer: All participants join the Port Street Turkey Trot at their own risk. This is an informal neighborhood fun-run organized by local residents with no official timing, road closures, or liability coverage. Please exercise common sense, watch for traffic, and keep your family safe while enjoying this community tradition.
The beauty of the Port Streets course is that it's familiar territory for residents but also an inviting introduction for visitors. The relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for strollers and walkers, while still providing a satisfying workout for more experienced runners. The tree-canopy coverage along many stretches provides welcome shade, and the minimal traffic on Thanksgiving morning creates a peaceful, festive atmosphere perfect for conversation and connection.
Get Involved & Volunteer
The Port Street Turkey Trot runs smoothly thanks to the generous contributions of neighborhood volunteers who donate their time and energy to make Thanksgiving morning special for everyone. Whether you're setting up water stations, managing the start/finish area, cheering on participants, or helping with logistics, your involvement makes a real difference in creating the welcoming, organized atmosphere that defines our event.
We're always looking for neighbors who want to help behind the scenes! Volunteer roles are flexible and fun, allowing you to be part of the Turkey Trot magic while still having plenty of time to get home and prepare your own Thanksgiving feast. It's a wonderful way to meet neighbors, contribute to our community tradition, and create memories that go beyond simply running the 5K.
Call or text Carter Weir 949-795-2222 to find out how you can help
Setup & Logistics
Help us set up tables, signage, and the start/finish area early on Thanksgiving morning. This crew arrives around 7:00 AM to transform the park into Turkey Trot headquarters.
Water Station Support
Hand out water to thirsty runners and walkers as they complete the course. Your encouraging smile and cold beverages are deeply appreciated by participants!
Course Marshals & Cheering
Station yourself along the route to cheer on participants, provide directions, and ensure everyone stays safe. Your enthusiasm keeps spirits high!
Kids Fun-Run Coordination
Help manage the kids' starting corral, ensure little ones stay safe, and celebrate with families as children complete their one-kilometer adventure.
No formal registration is required to run or walk in the Turkey Trot—simply show up on Thanksgiving morning ready to participate! The informal, come-as-you-are nature of the event is part of what makes it so welcoming and stress-free. However, if you'd like to volunteer and help organize the morning, please reach out through our contact form or send us an email so we can coordinate roles and timing.
Volunteering at the Turkey Trot is also a fantastic way to be part of the action if you're not interested in running or walking yourself. Maybe you're preparing the turkey and can't spare the time for a 5K, or perhaps you have a mobility issue that makes the course challenging—volunteering allows you to experience the community spirit and camaraderie without logging the kilometers. Plus, you'll have the best seat in the house to watch the neighborhood come together in celebration!
"Volunteering at the Turkey Trot has become as much a part of our family's Thanksgiving as the actual dinner. Seeing neighbors of all ages come together, laughing and exercising before the feast, reminds me why we love living in Harbor View Homes."
— Sarah Martinez, 4-year Turkey Trot volunteer
Memories & Community Gallery
One of the most beautiful aspects of the Port Street Turkey Trot is how it creates lasting memories for families and neighbors. Each year brings new smiles, festive costumes, personal milestones, and moments of connection that define what it means to be part of the Harbor View Homes community. Browse through photos from previous years and you'll see the heart of what makes this event so special.
Every year, participants surprise us with their creativity! You'll spot runners dressed as turkeys, pilgrims, and even entire families coordinating their Thanksgiving-themed outfits. We've seen babies bundled in turkey costumes being pushed in strollers, dogs wearing festive bandanas, and teenagers creating elaborate group costumes with their friends. The Turkey Trot isn't just about fitness—it's about fun, laughter, and the joy of sharing a silly, memorable experience with your neighbors.
"Our kids talk about the Turkey Trot for weeks before Thanksgiving. It's become the official start of the holiday season for our family!"
— Jennifer & Mike Thompson
"I'm visiting from out of state every Thanksgiving, and joining the Turkey Trot is now my favorite part of the trip. The neighborhood spirit is incredible."
— Robert Chen
"We've participated every year since 2020. Watching it grow from a handful of neighbors to hundreds of people has been amazing. This IS Harbor View Homes!"
— The Patel Family
We love seeing the Turkey Trot through your eyes! Share your photos and experiences on social media using the hashtag #PortStreetTurkeyTrot. Whether it's a candid shot of your kids at the starting line, a scenic view of the autumn-kissed route, or a funny selfie in your turkey costume, we want to celebrate these moments together. Your posts help spread the word about our beloved community tradition and encourage new neighbors to join us next year.
Looking through past Turkey Trot galleries, you'll notice something special: the same faces appearing year after year, growing and changing with time. Kids who toddled through the Fun-Run in 2020 are now running the full 5K. Families who arrived as newcomers to the neighborhood are now familiar faces greeting everyone at the starting line. New babies make their stroller debuts each year. These visual stories of growth, continuity, and connection remind us that the Turkey Trot is more than an event—it's a tradition that weaves itself into the fabric of our lives.
If you participated in previous Turkey Trots and have photos you'd like to contribute to our community gallery, please send them our way! We're always adding to our collection and love showcasing the diverse, joyful experiences that make up this neighborhood celebration. Your memories help tell the complete story of what the Port Street Turkey Trot means to Harbor View Homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you're a Turkey Trot veteran or considering joining us for the first time, you probably have questions! Here are answers to the most common inquiries we receive. If you don't see your question addressed below, please don't hesitate to reach out through our contact form.
Is this an official race?
No! The Port Street Turkey Trot is an informal, community-organized fun-run. There's no official timing, no race permits, and no road closures. It's simply neighbors gathering to run and walk together on Thanksgiving morning.
Is there an entry fee?
Absolutely not! Participation is completely free. This is a neighborhood tradition, not a commercial event, so there are no registration fees or hidden costs.
Do I need to register in advance?
No registration required! Simply show up on Thanksgiving morning at the start/finish area near Buffalo Hills Park on Newport Hills Drive East, ready to run or walk.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, friendly dogs on leashes are welcome! Just make sure your pup is comfortable around crowds and can handle a 5K distance. Please clean up after your pet and be courteous to other participants.
Can I bring a stroller?
Absolutely! The relatively flat course and wide sidewalks make the Turkey Trot very stroller-friendly. Many families participate with babies and toddlers in tow.
What should I wear?
Dress for comfort and the weather! November mornings in Newport Beach are typically cool and pleasant, so layers are recommended. Many participants wear festive Thanksgiving-themed costumes—creativity is encouraged!
Where should I park?
Street parking is also available, but please be respectful of residents' driveways and property. If you live within walking or biking distance, please consider leaving your car at home!
How can I volunteer?
We'd love your help! Send us an email or fill out our contact form indicating your interest in volunteering. We'll coordinate with you about specific roles, timing, and what to expect on Thanksgiving morning.
What if it rains?
The Turkey Trot goes on rain or shine! This is California, so rain is rare, but if it does happen, dress accordingly and embrace the adventure. Significant weather emergencies would be communicated via neighborhood social media groups.
Can out-of-town guests participate?
Absolutely! We warmly welcome visitors who are spending Thanksgiving with Harbor View Homes residents. It's a wonderful way to show your out-of-town family and friends what makes our neighborhood so special.
Are there age restrictions?
None whatsoever! We've had everyone from babies in strollers to octogenarian walkers participate. The Kids Fun-Run (1K) is designed for younger children, while the 5K welcomes participants of all ages who can complete the distance.
Will there be water available?
Yes! Volunteers set up water stations along the route and at the finish line. However, we recommend bringing your own water bottle as well, especially if you have specific hydration needs.

Contact Us: Have a question we didn't answer? Need more information about volunteering or logistics? Reach out to us at carter@carterweir.com or 949-795-2222.
The Port Street Turkey Trot is organized by neighbors, for neighbors, with love and community spirit at its heart. Thank you for being part of this wonderful Harbor View Homes tradition. We look forward to seeing you on Thanksgiving morning—ready to run, walk, gobble, and give thanks together!
"The Port Street Turkey Trot is an informal neighborhood fun-run organized by local residents. There is no official timing, no road closures, and no liability coverage. All participants join at their own risk and are responsible for their own safety. Please obey all traffic laws, watch for vehicles, and exercise common sense while enjoying this community tradition."