What's Open on Thanksgiving Day 2026 in Los Angeles? 36 Family Outings and Turkey Trots
Wondering what's open on Thanksgiving Day 2026 in Los Angeles? More than you might think. On Thursday, November 26, Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott's, Six Flags Magic Mountain, the Aquarium of the Pacific and Griffith Park all welcome families, and a baker's dozen of Turkey Trots get everyone moving before the feast.
We rounded up 36 family outings, from holiday-dressed theme parks and a Disney movie with a live stage show to a seaside Ferris wheel and pie-earning 5Ks. We also flagged the popular spots that close for the holiday, so nobody ends up at a locked gate with a car full of hungry kids.
Updated October 23, 2026
🦃 Key Takeaways
Date: Thanksgiving 2026 falls on Thursday, November 26.
Open all day: Disneyland Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott's Berry Farm, Six Flags Magic Mountain, LEGOLAND California, SeaWorld San Diego and the Aquarium of the Pacific are all open on Thanksgiving Day.
Free and easy: Griffith Park's trails and lawns are open, and Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier has no admission fee (you pay per ride).
Closed: Griffith Observatory, the L.A. Zoo and L.A. Zoo Lights, Descanso's Enchanted light show, the Mission Inn Festival of Lights, the Natural History Museum and Discovery Cube close for the holiday.
Turkey Trots: 13 Thanksgiving morning runs from Downtown LA to Oceanside, most with kids' races.
Book ahead: Disneyland requires a park reservation, and the Aquarium of the Pacific requires reservations on holidays.
Things to Do in Los Angeles on Thanksgiving Day 2026
You don't have to go far for a Thanksgiving adventure. These spots in and around the city are open on Thursday, November 26, 2026, and most are an easy drive from the turkey.
1. LA Auto Show
Los Angeles Convention Center
1201 S. Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Thursday, November 26, 2026 (show runs Nov. 20 to 29); Thanksgiving hours TBA
Car-crazy kids get a full day of shiny concept cars, new EVs and hands-on displays at the LA Auto Show, which stays open right through Thanksgiving week. It's an indoor, rain-or-shine outing, and the halls are big enough that the holiday crowd spreads out.
Advance weekday tickets (good Nov. 23 to 26) are $22 for adults and $11 for seniors 65+ and kids 6 to 12, and kids under 6 are free. On Nov. 25 and 26 only, a Family Four Pack is $66. The show is cashless, and nearby garages run about $25 to $35.
Parent Tip: Enter through the West Hall on Gilbert Lindsay Plaza or the South Hall at Pico and Figueroa, and check the show's website for Thanksgiving hours the night before.
Pershing Square
532 S. Olive Street
Los Angeles, CA 90013
Open daily, Nov. 12, 2026, to Jan. 3, 2027; Thanksgiving session times TBA
Downtown's outdoor rink opens for the season on November 12 and skates every day through January 3, so Thanksgiving lands right in the middle of the run. Gliding under the city's towers with holiday music playing is a fun way to burn off energy before (or after) dinner.
Session times and 2026 prices are TBA, so check the rink's website before you go.
Parent Tip: Gloves and tall socks make rental skates more comfortable for little ones, and morning sessions are usually calmer.
6838 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood, CA 90028
Thanksgiving showtimes: 10 a.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9:55 p.m.
Disney's historic Hollywood movie palace is showing Disney's Hexed over Thanksgiving week (Nov. 24 to Dec. 13), and every screening starts with Billie on stage before the movie, plus a photo op. The gilded theater alone makes kids feel like they've stepped into a storybook.
Tickets are $28 for adults and $25 for kids 3 to 11 and seniors 60+, or $84 for a Family Pack of four reserved seats. Seats are reserved, so book before the holiday. Parking is at 1755 N. Highland Ave., with a $25 daily maximum.
Parent Tip: The 10 a.m. show gets you home in plenty of time to baste the turkey.
4730 Crystal Springs Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Open daily, 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
LA's biggest city park makes a classic Thanksgiving morning outing, with miles of trails, wide picnic lawns and views of the Hollywood Sign. Pack a thermos and some leftover pie, and you have an easy, free family tradition.
One important note: Griffith Observatory is closed on Thanksgiving Day 2026, though the park around it stays open. Save the observatory for another day of the long weekend.
Parent Tip: Trailhead parking fills quickly on holidays, so arrive early or plan a picnic stop near the Crystal Springs Drive entrance.
380 Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Thursday, November 26, 2026: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Santa Monica Pier's seaside amusement park is open on Thanksgiving, with its famous Ferris wheel, a roller coaster over the waves and kiddie rides for little ones. Since there's no admission fee, you can stroll the pier, watch the street performers and catch the sunset for free.
Rides cost $6 to $20 each, or grab an Unlimited Ride Wristband: $40 online for ages 8 and up and $20 online for ages 7 and under.
Parent Tip: Time your visit for sunset, then ride the Ferris wheel once the lights come on.
1418 Descanso Drive
La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Descanso's oak woodland, rose garden and Japanese Garden are open every day except Christmas, which makes the garden a peaceful spot for a Thanksgiving morning walk before the cooking marathon.
Admission is $20 for adults, $14 for seniors 65+ and students, $8 for kids 3 to 12 and free for ages 2 and under, and parking is free. Heads up: Enchanted: Forest of Light (Nov. 22, 2026, to Jan. 9, 2027) is closed on Thanksgiving night, and the garden train is currently closed for repairs.
Parent Tip: Want to see Enchanted's new laser show in its 10th season? Book it for Thanksgiving weekend instead.
100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City, CA 91608
Thursday, November 26, 2026: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Universal CityWalk: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.)
Universal Studios Hollywood is open on Thanksgiving, and the holidays are already in full swing. Grinchmas, Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, holiday décor at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and the new Illumination's Merry Minions in Minion Land run daily from November 21, 2026, through January 3, 2027, all included with admission.
One-day general admission starts at $99.95 online, and Jurassic World – The Ride is scheduled to reopen on November 21. Next door, Universal CityWalk has free admission, a giant holiday tree and plenty of dinner spots if you'd rather skip the dishes. Get the full scoop in our Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood 2026 guide.
Parent Tip: Holiday-week crowds build by midday, so ride your must-dos early and save the Grinchmas tree lighting for the evening.
6300 Balboa Blvd.
Van Nuys, CA 91316
Open Thanksgiving (weather permitting), 9 a.m. to sunset
Wheel Fun Rentals at Lake Balboa is open on Thanksgiving, weather permitting, and pedaling a covered surrey around the lake is one of the cheeriest ways to work up an appetite. Kids love taking a turn at the wheel, and the flat paths are easy for all ages.
Rentals are by the hour: surreys are $29, double surreys $39, cruisers $13 and kids' bikes or trailers $10. You can reserve surreys online.
Parent Tip: The sun sets around 4:45 p.m. in late November, so plan to ride in the morning or early afternoon.
Theme Parks, Gardens and Aquariums Open on Thanksgiving Near LA
Ready for a bigger outing? These theme parks and attractions within a few hours of Los Angeles are open on Thanksgiving Day 2026, and most are already dressed up for Christmas.
26300 Crenshaw Blvd.
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last entry 4:30 p.m.)
This 87-acre garden on the Palos Verdes Peninsula is open 364 days a year, closing only on Christmas Day, so it's a breezy Thanksgiving walk with plenty of room for kids to roam.
Admission is $18 for adults, $14 for seniors 62+ and students, $8 for kids 3 to 12 and free for ages 2 and under, with free parking. After dark, the garden hosts its new holiday light walk, Tinker Bell's Neverland: An Illuminated Adventure, nightly from 5 to 8:30 p.m. through January 3, 2027 (closed Christmas). Tickets are $33 for ages 16 and up and $18 for kids 3 to 15, and parking for the light walk is $20. Read more in our Tinker Bell's Neverland guide.
Parent Tip: The Banyan Grove Lawn is closed while a new Children and Family Garden is built, so pick another lawn for your picnic.
26101 Magic Mountain Parkway
Valencia, CA 91355
Thursday, November 26, 2026: 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Coaster fans, rejoice: Six Flags Magic Mountain is open on Thanksgiving Day, and Holiday in the Park brings twinkling lights and holiday shows on select dates into early January. The water park is closed for the season.
One-day tickets start at $45 online, with date-based pricing. The park's calendar shows Holiday in the Park on Thanksgiving, but the event page lists a Nov. 27 start, so check before you go if the lights are your main goal.
Parent Tip: Look up each ride's height requirement before you go so little ones aren't disappointed in line.
100 Aquarium Way
Long Beach, CA 90802
Thursday, November 26, 2026: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sharks, sea otters, penguins and touch pools make the Aquarium of the Pacific a Thanksgiving favorite, and it's open on the holiday. With plenty of indoor galleries, it's a great pick whatever the weather.
Admission is $49.95 for adults, $34.95 for kids 3 to 11 and $46.95 for seniors 62+. Reservations are required on holidays, so book ahead.
Want someone else to cook? The Aquarium's Thanksgiving Lunch buffet on the Rooftop Veranda has one-hour seatings from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and includes admission: $95 for adults and $72.50 for kids 3 to 11, or $70 and $47.50 for members. Parties of seven or more can call (562) 590-3100.
Parent Tip: Book the earliest lunch seating, then explore the galleries all afternoon on the same ticket.
1313 Disneyland Drive
Anaheim, CA 92802
Thursday, November 26, 2026: Disneyland Park 8 a.m. to midnight; Disney California Adventure 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Both Disney parks are open on Thanksgiving and already sparkling for Holidays at the Disneyland Resort (Nov. 13, 2026, to Jan. 6, 2027). On Thanksgiving Day, Disneyland Park has A Christmas Fantasy Parade at 3:15 and 5:30 p.m., Fantasmic! at 9 and 10:30 p.m. and the "Believe… In Holiday Magic" fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
One-day tickets range from $104 to $224 depending on the date, and everyone 3 and older needs both a ticket and a park reservation. Plan your day with our Ultimate Guide to Holidays at Disneyland 2026–2027.
Parent Tip: Thanksgiving is one of the busiest days of the season, so claim a parade spot early and pack snacks for the wait.
8039 Beach Blvd.
Buena Park, CA 90620
Thursday, November 26, 2026: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Knott's Merry Farm (Nov. 20, 2026, to Jan. 3, 2027) turns the park into a holiday village of lights, shows and seasonal treats, and Knott's is open on Thanksgiving Day. Little ones can spend hours in Camp Snoopy, while older kids head for the coasters.
Online tickets start at $65, with date-based pricing. Soak City is closed for the season.
Parent Tip: Make it a tradition with a slice of Knott's famous boysenberry pie before you head home.
One LEGOLAND Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Thursday, November 26, 2026: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
LEGOLAND's Christmas Bricktacular runs during Thanksgiving week (Nov. 21 to 29), so the park is open on Thanksgiving Day with holiday décor and seasonal fun, all included with admission. It's built for kids roughly 2 to 12.
Holiday fireworks are on select December nights, not Thanksgiving. Find dates, shows and tips in our LEGOLAND Christmas Bricktacular 2026 guide.
Parent Tip: Carlsbad is about a 90-minute drive from LA without traffic, so leave early on the holiday.
500 SeaWorld Drive
San Diego, CA 92109
Thursday, November 26, 2026: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration runs daily from November 13 through January 3, so Thanksgiving visitors get holiday lights, festive shows and the park's animal encounters in one trip, all included with admission.
Ticket prices vary by date, so check the park's website for Thanksgiving pricing.
Parent Tip: Stay until dark; the holiday lights are the highlight of the day.
Thanksgiving Meals Out With the Kids
Skip the dishes this year. These family-friendly Thanksgiving meals come with a view, and you'll find more ideas in our guide to the best family-friendly restaurants for Thanksgiving dinner in LA.
Marina del Rey, CA (boarding location TBA)
Thursday, November 26, 2026: brunch and dinner cruises; times TBA
Thanksgiving on the water? City Cruises in Marina del Rey offers a Thanksgiving Day Premier Brunch Cruise and a Premier Dinner Cruise. The brunch includes a buffet, sparkling cider and unlimited coffee and tea, while the dinner cruise serves a holiday buffet as you sail the harbor.
Prices, boarding times and the meeting spot aren't posted yet, so check the cruise website or call 855-594-7224. Holiday cruises aren't covered by the company's Ticket Assurance refund policy.
Parent Tip: Bring a warm layer for the kids; it gets chilly on deck once the sun goes down.
3649 Mission Inn Ave.
Riverside, CA 92501
Thursday, November 26, 2026: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The historic Mission Inn in Riverside hosts a Thanksgiving Day Brunch from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. It's $95 for adults and $35 for kids 3 to 11, plus tax and gratuity.
The famous Festival of Lights is closed on Thanksgiving night, but this year it switches on early, on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2026, at 5 p.m., with fireworks. Come back another evening of the long weekend to see the lights.
Parent Tip: For a second holiday outing at the inn, Breakfast with Santa runs on select dates from Nov. 22 to Dec. 20 ($45 adults, $20 kids 3 to 11).
Open Daily, but Call Ahead on Thanksgiving
These family favorites are open every day, but they haven't posted Thanksgiving 2026 hours yet. Check their websites or give them a quick call before you head out.
6333 W. 3rd Street
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Thanksgiving 2026 hours TBA; call (323) 933-9211
The Original Farmers Market at 3rd and Fairfax is a fun place to graze, with dozens of food stalls, sweet shops and specialty grocers under one roof. Regular weekday hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., but the market hasn't posted its Thanksgiving hours.
The first 90 minutes of parking are free (two hours with validation from select grocers).
Parent Tip: Let each kid pick one stall for a no-dishes holiday lunch.
3400 N. Beachwood Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90068
Tours run daily; Thanksgiving availability TBA
Saddle up for a guided trail ride in the Hollywood Hills with views of the Hollywood Sign. Sunset Ranch has been leading rides since 1929, no riding experience is needed, and helmets are provided.
The roughly one-hour Mulholland Trail Tour starts at $75 per person, and the two-hour Mt. Hollywood Trail Tour starts at $145. Riders must be 8 or older (minors ride with an adult), there's a 240-pound weight limit, and reservations are required.
Parent Tip: Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants for a comfortable ride.
Westfield Century City, Space 2945
10250 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90067
Open daily, 8 a.m. to midnight; Thanksgiving hours TBA
Work together as a family to crack codes and beat the clock at The Escape Game inside Westfield Century City. There are four themed rooms, including the LA-exclusive Only Murders in the Building game (60 minutes, up to eight players), and the games are designed for all ages.
Prices and Thanksgiving availability show up when you book online.
Parent Tip: Arrive a few minutes early so the kids can hear the game briefing without rushing.
1324 5th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
2026 season returns in November; dates and hours TBA
This outdoor rink a few blocks from the beach is a beloved SoCal holiday tradition. The 2026 season returns in November, but opening day, Thanksgiving hours and prices are TBA.
Parent Tip: Pair a morning skate with a stroll on the nearby Third Street Promenade.
22. The Queen Mary
1126 Queens Highway
Long Beach, CA 90802
Most exhibits open daily, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Thanksgiving hours TBA
Climb aboard the legendary ocean liner for self-guided exploring, harbor views and a peek at its Art Deco salons. Most historic exhibits are open daily, but the ship hasn't posted its Thanksgiving 2026 plans.
Parking is $25 per day ($15 with restaurant validation).
Parent Tip: Combine it with the Aquarium of the Pacific across the harbor for a full Long Beach day.
12681 Harbor Blvd.
Garden Grove, CA 92840
Day passes from $40; Thanksgiving availability TBA
Great Wolf Lodge's 84-degree indoor water park is a warm, splashy escape on a cool holiday. Day passes start at $40, with a half-day option from 4 p.m. to close, and ages 2 and under are free.
Day passes are limited and non-refundable, and sold-out dates can't be booked, so check Thanksgiving availability early.
Parent Tip: Pack water shoes and a cover-up for walking between the slides.
Turkey Trots in Los Angeles and Southern California 2026
Run, walk or waddle in a turkey hat. These 13 Thanksgiving Day races are confirmed for Thursday, November 26, 2026, and most have kids' runs, costumes and a medal at the finish. Prices go up as race day gets closer, so register early.
24. Turkey Trot LA
Los Angeles City Hall
200 N. Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Dog Jog 7:30 a.m.; 5K 8 and 8:15 a.m. waves; 10K 9 a.m.; Widdle Wobble kids' run 10:15 a.m.
Downtown's big Thanksgiving run starts at City Hall and finishes at Grand Park, with a 5K, a 10K, a one-mile Dog Jog and the Widdle Wobble for kids. Every finisher gets a medal and a T-shirt, and the race benefits The Midnight Mission.
Current prices are $49.90 for the 5K, $54.90 for the 10K, $69.90 for the 5K/10K combo, $41.90 for the Dog Jog and $23.90 for the Widdle Wobble. Race-day packet pickup opens at 6 a.m. Register for Turkey Trot LA.
Parent Tip: Take Metro to Civic Center/Grand Park Station to skip downtown parking.
Palisades Charter High School, Dolphin Stadium
15777 W. Bowdoin Street
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Festivities start at 7 a.m.; 5K and 10K start at 8 or 8:15 a.m. (confirm on the race website)
This neighborhood favorite offers a 5K, a 10K and two kids' races for ages 5 to 10, with medals and water at the finish line. Costumes are always welcome.
Current prices are $69.90 for the 5K, $80.50 for the 10K and $45.52 for the kids' races, and the adult prices rise after Nov. 13. Park on the Alphabet Streets, and leave the dog at home; dogs aren't allowed on the field.
Parent Tip: Arrive by 7 a.m. to enjoy the pre-race festivities.
Crescent Bay Park
2000 Ocean Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90405
5K 8 a.m.; 1-mile 8:15 a.m.; Kids Dash 9 a.m.
Run by the ocean in this untimed, family-friendly trot with a 5K, a 1-miler and a Kids Dash. Finishers get a metal medal and free photos, there's a festival at the finish line, and proceeds benefit Merge Opportunities.
Current prices are $43.39 for the 5K, $31.73 for the mile and $22.20 for the Kids Dash. The 5K and 1-mile prices rise after Oct. 31.
Parent Tip: Untimed means no pressure, which makes this a great first race for kids.
Rose Bowl Stadium, Lot K (West Drive and Seco Street)
1001 Rose Bowl Drive
Pasadena, CA 91103
Timed 5K at 8:30 a.m.
Loop the iconic stadium in this timed 5K, where strollers, leashed dogs and costumes are all welcome. Kids 9 and under run free, and children under 12 must stay with a registered parent or guardian. This year's donations support Pasadena Unified School District athletics through the Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation.
Current prices are $35.98 for ages 10 to 17 and $41.28 for adults. Parking is free in Lots F and K, and bibs are available Wednesday, Nov. 25, from noon to 5 p.m. or on race morning from 6:30 a.m.
Parent Tip: Grab your bibs on Wednesday to make Thanksgiving morning smoother.
Olberz Park
One Civic Center Drive
La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
5K 8:15 a.m.; Kids' Mile (ages 12 and under) 9:30 a.m.
Now in its 33rd year, this hometown run includes a timed 5K and a Kids' Mile where every young runner earns a medal. Bring canned food for the drive, which benefits Sue's Garden in La Crescenta.
Through Oct. 31, the 5K is $50 for adults and $40 for kids 12 and under, and the Kids' Mile is $25. Prices rise on Nov. 1 and again on race day.
Parent Tip: Register before Halloween to lock in the lowest price.
NoHo Arts District
North Hollywood, CA 91601 (exact start location TBA)
Lil Gobblers Kids 1K 7:45 a.m.; 5K and 10K 8 a.m.
The 11th annual Drumstick Dash brings DJs along the course, a costume contest and finisher medals to the NoHo Arts District, all to support Hope the Mission's homeless shelters. Kids can race the Lil Gobblers 1K.
Current prices are about $48.70 for the 5K or 10K and $16.90 for the Lil Gobblers 1K, with group pricing and a virtual option available.
Parent Tip: Turkey costumes are encouraged, and there's a contest, so go big.
Woodley Park, Section 1
6340 Woodley Ave.
Lake Balboa (Van Nuys), CA 91406
Check-in 6:15 to 7:50 a.m.; races start at 8 a.m. (some listings show 7:30 a.m.)
Pick your distance at this flat Valley run: 5K, 10K, 15K or a half marathon. Finishers get a medal, chip timing, free photos and videos, a goodie bag and snacks.
Early-bird online prices through Oct. 27 are $29.99 for the 5K, $34.99 for the 10K, $39.99 for the 15K and $44.99 for the half marathon, then about $5 more. A shirt is an optional $9.99, and families of four or more can email for a group discount.
Parent Tip: The 5K is the sweet spot for school-age kids.
Lowe's parking lot by Skypark Drive
Torrance, CA
Check-in 6:30 a.m.; warm-up 7:30 a.m.; 3-mile run 8 a.m.; prize drawing 9:15 a.m.
The Harry Sutter Memorial Turkey Trot is a South Bay tradition: a 3-mile fun run with T-shirts (while supplies last) and a prize drawing for bikes and gift cards, so winners must be present.
Registration is $35 through Nov. 20 and $40 on Nov. 25 and 26, plus a card fee. There's no parking at Lowe's, so park at Sam's Club (enter from Lomita Blvd.) or Torrance Crossroads and walk over. The city also collects canned food at the City Hall West Annex.
Parent Tip: Stick around for the 9:15 a.m. drawing; kids love the bike giveaway.
San Antonio Park
2393 N. Mountain Ave.
Upland, CA 91784
Kids 1K (ages 9 and under) 7:30 a.m.; 5K 8 a.m.
Upland's family run has a 5K and a Kids 1K, with a medal for every participant and proceeds supporting Upland High School's cross-country teams.
Online registration closes Nov. 15 and is capped at the first 1,000 runners, and race-day sign-up isn't guaranteed, so check the race website for current prices and register early. Early bib pickup is Wednesday, Nov. 25, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Landecena Community Building, 1325 San Bernardino Road.
Parent Tip: Pick up bibs on Wednesday so Thanksgiving morning is all about the run.
Hofer Drive off King Street, Ventura Auto Center
Ventura, CA
5K 8 a.m.; Kids 1K (ages 14 and under) 9:15 a.m.
Ventura's 5K and Kids 1K come with a medal plus your choice of a 2026 shirt or mug, and the race collects food for the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging.
Current prices are $48.90 for the 5K (rising after Nov. 5) and $17.50 for the Kids 1K (registration closes Nov. 23). Packet pickup is Wednesday, Nov. 25, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Mile 26 Running Co., 2222 E. Thompson Blvd.
Parent Tip: Choose the mug; it makes a sweet keepsake for the Thanksgiving table.
34. OC Turkey Trot
Irvine Valley College
5500 Irvine Center Drive
Irvine, CA 92618
1-Mile Turkey Dash 7:30 a.m.; 5K 8 a.m.; Kids' Gobble Wobble 9:15 a.m.
Orange County's big family trot has a 1-mile Turkey Dash, a chip-timed 5K and the Kids' Gobble Wobble, with heats from a Diaper Dash (3 and under) to a half mile for ages 11 and 12. Finishers get a medal, a shirt and a slice of pumpkin pie.
Current prices are $33 for the mile, $42.80 for the 5K, $56 for the combo and $31 for the Gobble Wobble, and prices rise at the end of October. Proceeds support South County Outreach and Urban Health Alliance.
Parent Tip: The Diaper Dash is the cutest race of the day, so have your camera ready.
Dana Point Harbor
Packet pickup: 25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629
10K 7 a.m.; 5K 8:30 or 9:30 a.m.; 5K Family Walk/Run 10 a.m.
One of Southern California's biggest Thanksgiving runs circles the harbor with a 10K, 5K waves, a Family Walk/Run and the Kids' 1-Mile Gobble Wobble (untimed, with a shirt and medal). There's an expo, a costume contest and free shuttles from Dana Hills High School and Costco.
Prices are $54 for the 10K, $48 for the 5K, $63 for the 10K plus 5K combo and $25 for the Gobble Wobble. Charity partners include the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley and the RH Dana Booster Club. Register for the Dana Point Turkey Trot.
Parent Tip: Take the free shuttle (it starts at 5:30 a.m.); harbor parking fills fast.
330 N. Coast Highway
Oceanside, CA 92054
Thursday, November 26, 2026, 7 a.m.
Oceanside's coastal trot offers a 5K and a kids' run in the heart of downtown, close to the beach.
Prices and kids' run details are TBA, so check the race website for the latest.
Parent Tip: Make a weekend of it; Oceanside's beaches are lovely and uncrowded in late fall.
Closed on Thanksgiving Day 2026: Plan Around These
Save yourself a wasted drive. These popular family spots are closed on Thursday, November 26, 2026.
Griffith Observatory: Closed for the holiday, though Griffith Park stays open.
L.A. Zoo and L.A. Zoo Lights: The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, and L.A. Zoo Lights (Nov. 20, 2026, to Jan. 10, 2027) is dark that night.
Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens: Closed on Thanksgiving night, though the daytime garden is open.
Mission Inn Festival of Lights: Closed on Thanksgiving; the lights switch on Saturday, Nov. 21.
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County: Closed on Thanksgiving Day.
Discovery Cube Los Angeles and Orange County: Both locations close on Thanksgiving.
La Brea Tar Pits museum: The building is temporarily closed for renovation, but Hancock Park and the outdoor excavation sites stay open.
Planning ahead for December? See What's Open on Christmas Day 2026 in LA.
Tips for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving Outing in LA
Book the day before: Disneyland reservations, Aquarium holiday reservations, El Capitan seats and Turkey Trot spots can sell out.
Go early: Theme parks and the Santa Monica Pier get busier in the afternoon, when families head out after the big meal.
Mind the sunset: The sun sets around 4:45 p.m. in late November, so plan outdoor fun for the morning or early afternoon.
Expect holiday traffic: The day before Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel days of the year, while Thanksgiving morning roads tend to be lighter.
Confirm hours: Holiday hours can change, so check each venue's website the night before.
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Takeaway: Make Thanksgiving 2026 a Family Adventure
Thanksgiving in Los Angeles doesn't have to mean a day on the couch. Whether your crew wants Disney parades, sea otters, a Hollywood trail ride or a 5K in turkey hats, plenty is open on Thursday, November 26, 2026. Book the popular spots early, skip the places that close for the day, and save room for pie.
What's Open on Thanksgiving Day in LA: FAQs
1. What is open on Thanksgiving Day 2026 in Los Angeles?
Disneyland Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott's Berry Farm, Six Flags Magic Mountain, the Aquarium of the Pacific, Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, Griffith Park, Descanso Gardens, South Coast Botanic Garden, the LA Auto Show and the El Capitan Theatre are all open on Thursday, November 26, 2026.
2. Is Disneyland open on Thanksgiving Day 2026?
Yes. Disneyland Park is open from 8 a.m. to midnight and Disney California Adventure from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Thanksgiving. Expect big crowds, A Christmas Fantasy Parade and holiday fireworks. Everyone 3 and older needs both a ticket and a park reservation.
3. Is the LA Zoo open on Thanksgiving?
No. The Los Angeles Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, and L.A. Zoo Lights is closed on Thanksgiving night too. For animals on the holiday, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with reservations required.
4. Is Griffith Observatory open on Thanksgiving 2026?
No. Griffith Observatory is closed on Thanksgiving Day 2026. Griffith Park itself is open from 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., so you can still hike, picnic and enjoy views of the Hollywood Sign. Plan your observatory visit for another day of the long weekend.
5. What are the best Turkey Trots in Los Angeles for kids?
Family favorites include Turkey Trot LA downtown with its Widdle Wobble kids' run, the Rose Bowl Turkey Trot where kids 9 and under run free, the Pacific Palisades Turkey Trot with races for ages 5 to 10, and the Santa Monica Turkey Day Trot's untimed Kids Dash.
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