.png)
Thanksgiving 2025 in San Diego — A Guide for Those With Nowhere to Go
- San Diego Monitor News Staff
- Nov 27
- 2 min read
By San Diego Monitor News Staff
For many across San Diego, Thanksgiving means family, warm meals, and tradition. But for thousands of locals, the holiday can bring loneliness or hunger. If you or someone you know has nowhere to go this Thanksgiving, many local organizations are opening their doors — and their hearts — to make sure no one is left out.
Below is a detailed guide to free meals, gatherings, and community-oriented events happening this holiday season, with links to registration pages or information sources.
Free Meals & Food Distributions
Feeding San Diego
Feeding San Diego is offering Thanksgiving food distributions across the county, including free turkeys, produce, and holiday meal boxes.
Information and locations: https://feedingsandiego.org/find-food/Enter your ZIP code to view the nearest available distribution.
San Diego Rescue Mission
The Rescue Mission held its large Thanksgiving community meal earlier in November, but updates about additional holiday services can be found on the news page below.
The Salvation Army — San Diego Region
Several Salvation Army branches in the county distribute free Thanksgiving meals, including hot meals, grab-and-go options, and drive-through service.
211 San Diego
211 San Diego maintains a constantly updated holiday assistance calendar that includes Thanksgiving meals, food box pickups, and community gatherings.
Information: https://211sandiego.org/holiday-assistance/You can also call 2-1-1 for direct help finding meals or shelter.
Community Runs & Social Events
Father Joe’s Villages 24th Annual Thanksgiving Day 5K — Balboa Park
This charity run/walk welcomes both runners and walkers and supports services for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Registration and event info: https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/11/25/thanksgiving-day-turkey-trots-san-diego-2025
Other 2025 Turkey Trots (Oceanside, Coronado, Encinitas, etc.)
Several local races across San Diego County offer a fun, social start to Thanksgiving Day.
Event summary and links: https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/11/25/thanksgiving-day-turkey-trots-san-diego-2025
Community Dinners & Holiday Gatherings
20th Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner — Spring Valley
Hosted by San Diego New Life, this community dinner provides a welcoming environment and a full Thanksgiving meal for anyone in need.
Event listings appear through community calendars such as 211 San Diego: https://211sandiego.org/holiday-assistance/
Additional Assistance Listings
Many neighborhood groups, churches, and nonprofits host community meals not widely advertised.
For the most complete list of Thanksgiving Day gatherings, call 2-1-1 or check: https://211sandiego.org/holiday-assistance/
Why These Events Matter
The holidays can be especially difficult for people experiencing food insecurity, homelessness, or isolation. These community events offer not only meals but dignity, connection, and a sense of belonging. With rising living costs and increasing need, these gatherings ensure that no one has to face Thanksgiving alone.
If you or someone you know is looking for a warm meal or a welcoming environment this season, the resources above are open to everyone without cost or obligation.
Final Thoughts
No one in San Diego should have to spend Thanksgiving alone or hungry. With free food distributions, community dinners, and open-to-all holiday events taking place across the county, there is support available for anyone who needs it. San Diego’s community organizations are ready to welcome you.
Comments