Martha's Village & Kitchen 20th Annual Thanksgiving Day 5K

The Martha’s Village & Kitchen Thanksgiving Day 5K is an annual, family friendly run and walk held in Palm Desert, California and this year we are celebrating 20 years of giving back!

This beloved Thanksgiving tradition brings more than 5,000 participants, spectators, and volunteers together to raise awareness and critical funds in support of Martha’s Village & Kitchen and our mission to end hunger and homelessness in the Coachella Valley.

Race day is a full celebration featuring a live DJ and stage, trophy presentations, and a high energy finish line experience. Register as an individual, start a team, or join an existing team and get ready to run or walk for a cause!

Do not forget to capture the moment! Share your race day photos and videos and tag @MarthasVillage or use #MVK5K on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!

Martha’s Village & Kitchen is one of the largest providers of homeless and impoverished services in the Coachella Valley and Riverside County, serving more than 8,000 people each year. Founded in 1990 when neighbors began serving meals to those in need, Martha’s has grown to operate a main campus in Indio, CA, and the Palm Springs Navigation Center. 

Through housing, education, and supportive services based on the nationally recognized Continuum of Care model, Martha’s empowers individuals and families to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty.

Proceeds from the Thanksgiving Day 5K help fund meals, shelter, and life-changing programs—making a real difference for our neighbors in need during the holiday season and beyond.

What is the Thanksgiving Day 5K?
The Thanksgiving Day 5K is an annual, family-friendly run/walk fundraiser benefiting Martha’s Village & Kitchen. Our goal is to raise awareness about our programs and services and to generate funds to support our mission - to end hunger and homelessness in the Coachella Valley. Each year, over 4,000 participants, spectators, and volunteers join us on Thanksgiving morning to kick off the holiday with purpose.

 
Where is the event held?
The Thanksgiving Day 5K takes place Thanksgiving morning on El Paseo in Palm Desert, CA.

 
What is the race course map?

 
How much is registration?

Pre-Registration: Adults $45 | Youth (7 and younger) $35
Race Day Registration: Adults $55 | Youth $45
 
How can I register?
Online registration is strongly recommended. In-person registration will be available at two pre-event packet pickup days:

Tuesday, Nov 25st: 10 AM -5:00 PM
Wednesday, Nov 26nd: 10:30 AM -7:30 PM

 
How will I receive my official race day gear?
All official race gear and merchandise can be picked up at either of the two packet pickup days before the event.
Shirts and merchandise will be available on event day while supplies last.
There is no guarantee shirts will be available that morning.

 

Are there volunteer opportunities?
Yes! We have many in-person volunteer opportunities to support the event. Sign up at: http://vhub.at/1CMY2SJ

 
Can I mail in my registration?
Yes. Mailed registrations must be received at Martha’s Village & Kitchen no later than Friday, November 14, 2025.
Please make checks payable to Martha’s Village & Kitchen and include, on a separate sheet, the following for each participant:

First & Last Name
Email Address
Phone Number
Shirt Size
 
Can I purchase a shirt without registering?
On race day, additional shirts may be available for purchase while supplies last.

 
What time does the event start?
The race begins at 8:00 AM. Any updates to start times will be communicated in advance.

 
Will the event be timed and will there be medals/awards?
Yes! The event will be officially timed, and awards will be given to top finishers.

 
Is there a fundraising minimum?
There is no fundraising minimum, but fundraising is highly encouraged and deeply appreciated.
 Every dollar raised supports Martha’s Village & Kitchen’s programs and services in the Coachella Valley. Fundraisers will receive a GOLD bib on event day! 

 
Can I get a refund?
Due to the nature of this fundraising event, no refunds will be issued. We appreciate your generous support of Martha’s Village & Kitchen.

 
How are funds from the Thanksgiving Day 5K used?
100% of funds raised stay in the Coachella Valley to support Martha’s Village & Kitchen’s programs and services for homeless and impoverished individuals and families.

 
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. Martha’s Village & Kitchen is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible within the guidelines of U.S. law. Please keep your donation receipt as your official record.

REFERRALS
Martha's Village & Kitchen 19th Annual Thanksgiving Day 5K referral program
 
Refer friends to earn up to $15 cashback!
When you sign up for the Martha's Village & Kitchen 19th Annual Thanksgiving Day 5K, you’re eligible to earn cash rewards when you refer friends who sign up for the 2025 5K.  

How it Works

1. Right after you signup for the 5k, we will generate you a unique referral link via your confirmation email. Email your link and share it on social media with your crew.  
2. If you refer three (3) people to register for the Martha's Village & Kitchen Thanksgiving Day 5K with your referral link, you will receive a $10 refund.  
3. If you refer five (5) people to register for the Martha's Village & Kitchen Thanksgiving Day 5K, you will receive an additional $5 refund.

Thursday, November 26, 2026

Race Location:  Intersection of San Pablo and El Paseo

7:00 AM - PACKET PICKUP OPENS

8:00 AM  - 5K START

9:00 AM - AWARDS

*** Due to overwhelming participation if you pick up your bib on Race Day we may not be able to provide you a shirt.

 Pre-Packet Pickup will be hosted November 25th&26th!

For Details Click Below.
Pre-Packet Pickup Information

FESTIVAL ROW

Features exhibitor booths, a photo station, and a doggie refreshment station.

KIDS ZONE

Features complimentary face painting, arts and crafts, limbo, and hula hooping.

BEER GARDEN

Participants age 21 and above can enjoy a refreshing cold beer from a local brewery.