During Thanksgiving there are many ways to get involved and celebrate the season around Orange County. Students can have a fulfilling and fun break with any of these five activities. Experiencing new and old events with those we love in O.C. can bring great joy to our hearts.

1. Dana Point’s 44th annual Turkey Trot is on Thanksgiving morning. The trot consists of a choice of a 5k, 10k, combo of a 5k and 10k, Kids 1-mile Gobble Wobble, or virtual run. This is a great way for students to get their exercise in for the day before filling their tummies later. Registration is required. Registration fees differ depending on the race. For more information visit https://turkeytrot.com/race-info/
2. Operation Warm Wishes is hosting their 14th Annual Unity In The Community Thanksgiving Spectacular. Kayla Goetz, a junior, who is interested in volunteering said,  “These activities provide a sense of spirit, happiness and fun! It brings so much joy to others around you. It is also fun to try new things and do things with others.” This event is held on Thanksgiving Day at Peppertree Park at 230 West First St. in Tustin from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will include a free 3-course meal, kids’ crafts, live music, and a great variety of amenities such as haircuts, doggy grooming, clothing, food bags and more. For more information on volunteering contact Operation Warm Wishes at 714-363-6621.
3. For students wanting to stay on campus during Thanksgiving break, there is a men’s basketball game at CUI at 3 p.m. on Fri., Nov. 26. Sporting events are a great way to show school spirit, gather with friends and meet new people. For more games, check out CUI’s calendar at https://cuieagles.com/calendar
4. Want a delicious and unique Thanksgiving meal? Give IHOP a try. Open on Thanksgiving Day, IHOP is sure to give you a sense of home with their yummy breakfast food. Spend more than $25 and receive a $5 bounceback coupon for the next visit. https://www.ihop.com/en/news/2011/ihop-open-on-thanksgiving-day-and-giving-thanks-with-bounceback-coupon
5. For those who want to get into the Christmas spirit early Tanaka Farms is opening their Christmas tree lot on Fri., Nov. 26. They are open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. “I went to Tanaka’s tree lot during the holiday season. The experiences they provide are so fun. Even if you don’t get a tree, it’s fun to go with family and friends dressed up for photos or for a fun day out. Something so simple can bring so much joy and spirit,” Goetz said. Besides walking through the beautiful Christmas tree lot and taking photos students can find holiday decorations and gifts such as wreaths, poinsettias, fresh garlands, holiday banners & flags and tree ornaments. “The most appealing activity of the list definitely has to be the Christmas tree lot at Tanaka Farms. I would love to go this year with a group of friends from school,” said McKinna Bullock, a junior. For more information visit https://www.tanakafarms.com/tours-christmas-trees

This Thanksgiving break gather family or friends, pick something off the list to try and go experience something new. “I think all these ideas are amazing and beneficial to our community because of how we can all come together in this difficult time and still find things to be thankful for and still worship the Lord despite these confusing times,” said Bullock.

Tags: Orange County, community, fall, list

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