There are a huge number of people that are without the companionship of family or friends for the holidays.
Whether you are in the military, divorced, or away from family it gets hard to find a place to feel comfortable for the holidays.
Some want to feel the warmth of giving to the less fortunate, some want to be entertained, and some just want to eat.
Well, no need to fret because there are Thanksgiving alternatives for everyone.
Season of Love Community Block Party (Nov. 19)
This event put on by New Seasons Church is expected to have a crowd of about 3,000 families and plans to distribute more than 1,000 turkeys from donations. The distributions of the free items are sponsored by the San Diego Food Bank, Feeding America San Diego, Walmart, and Henry’s Market. There will also be a bunch of activities such as live music, children’s entertainment, free clothes, and more. The event will be at the New Seasons Church in Spring Valley and will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Website: http://www.nscsv.org/
Phone: (619) 463-0725
8th-Annual Turkey-free Thanksgiving (Nov. 19)
Vegetarians have to eat too.
This event is put together by the Animal Protection and Rescue League and Tofurky. Vegetarians can enjoy a vegan Thanksgiving meal with all the side dishes. The event will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. at World Beat Center and also includes music and other entertainment. Tickets are $15 at the door.
Website: www.aprl.org
Phone: 619-236-9514
El Cajon’s Annual Mother Goose Parade (Nov. 20)
The parade is considered an unofficial start of the holiday season in San Diego and begins the Sunday before Thanksgiving at 10 a.m. This free event is open to everyone and has plenty of things to enjoy including floats, clowns, queen contests, bands and more.
Website: www.mothergooseparade.org
Phone: 619-444-8712
54th Annual Pre-Thanksgiving Community Breakfast (Nov. 23)
Have a meal and help the less fortunate at the same time. The attendees of this event are encouraged to bring nonperishable food for the holiday food drive. The items collected will benefit the San Diego Food Bank. The event, held at the Handlery Hotel & Resort from 7 to 9 a.m., will be packed with prizes and entertainment.
Website: www.silamesa.org
Phone: 619-460-0563
Father Joe’s annual Thanksgiving Day 5K run/walk (Nov. 24)
Father Joe’s holds an annual 5K run/ walk that aims to help feed over 1.7 million people this year. The event will be held at Balboa Park. The start time of the 5K is 8 a.m. Registration and fee information can be found at the event’s website.
Website: www.thanksgivingrun.org/2011
Phone: 619-446-2100
Thanksgiving feast at the USO (Nov. 24)
The USO San Diego provides a traditional feast for Thanksgiving. The Downtown USO provides military members with a buffet-style meal from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Website: www.usosandiego.org
Phone: 619-235-6503
