Turkey runs held across Coachella Valley to benefit charity

Three runs took place in the Coachella Valley Thursday morning for those who wanted to get some exercise before chowing down on their Thanksgiving meal.

The Desert Cities Track Club and Old Town La Quinta held the 16th annual Turkey Trot 5k run and walk in Old Town La Quinta at 7:30 a.m. The event benefits Save-a-Pet, a no-kill animal shelter in Desert Hot Springs, according to organizers.

The run starts and ends on Main Street in Old Town La Quinta. Participants can bring dogs on leashes, and free parking will be available. Registration is $35 on site.

At 8 a.m., Martha’s Village & Kitchen held its annual Thanksgiving Day 5k at two locations — El Paseo in Palm Desert and 101 S. Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs. The runs raise funds for Indio-based Martha’s Village, which provides a variety of services to homeless people.

Run participants can bring dogs and can register on-site starting at 6:30 a.m. Day-of registration fees are $32 for those 12 and under and $40 for those 13 and older.

For route maps and more information on both Thanksgiving Day 5k events, go to marthasvillage.org.