Celebrate the Thanksgiving season in St. George by helping collect a literal ton of food during the 2025 Harvest Festival and Turkey Trot, happening Saturday, November 22 at J.C. Snow Park. A community favorite for more than 40 years, this long-running event doubles as a canned food drive for the Utah Food Bank.
The 5K run begins at 9:30 AM, followed by the 1-mile race at 9:35 AM. Both distances start and finish at J.C. Snow Park. After the races, runners, spectators, and community members are invited to enjoy the Harvest Festival beginning at 10:30 AM, featuring games, pie-eating contests, giveaways, and a chance to win a frozen turkey.
“This event is a special holiday tradition,” said Aaron Metler, Race Supervisor for the City of St. George. “It gives back to the running community by offering a low-cost, family-friendly experience while providing a meaningful service by helping deliver food to so many during a time of real need.”
Last year’s event raised a record-breaking 1,904 pounds of food, with approximately 500 runners participating. This year, organizers hope to reach 2,000 pounds of donations for the Utah Food Bank. Participants are encouraged to bring as many canned goods as possible—the minimum donation is five canned items—and to embrace the fun by wearing holiday-themed costumes. Staff members will join the festivities dressed as turkeys and pilgrims.
“The people of St. George and our surrounding towns are generous — we know we can hit our goal,” Metler added. “The unique part about the event is it is not cost prohibitive. Compared to the $45 entry fee for our other 5Ks, runners only pay $10 and bring at least five canned goods. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a race while supporting a good cause.”
Packet pickup will take place November 21 from 4 to 8 PM at Viva Chicken in St. George. Participants must bring their canned goods at pickup.
To register, visit the City of St. George recreation website.
