If you happen to suppose the one race that occurs on Thanksgiving Day is seeing who will get a second serving to of pumpkin pie first, guess once more. Earlier than lifting a fork, watching soccer, and taking a post-turkey snooze, a whole lot of 1000’s of People begin their vacation by giving thanks — with a turkey trot.
As a result of It’s Sizzling to Trot
These well-liked operating occasions, historically held earlier than the feast on Thanksgiving morning, have grown tremendously in recent times. Greater than 960,000 folks all through the nation completed a Thanksgiving day race in 2016, in comparison with practically 901,000 in 2015, in keeping with Operating USA. Turkey trots are sometimes tied to a charitable trigger, have a aptitude for costumed enjoyable, and typically give out turkeys and pies to high finishers! Plus, specialists say gentle cardio is among the finest cures for these inevitable hangovers from Thanksgiving Eve partying. However the turkey trot’s most appetizing draw is clear. Run a race within the morning and trotters can really feel guilt-free about wolfing down afterward!
In fact, with a median Thanksgiving Day meal weighing in someplace between 3,000 and 4,500 energy, you’d should run a full marathon (after which some) to actually burn all of it off. There are sadly no turkey trot marathons at the moment, however runners across the nation agree that even a couple of miles is the easiest way to kick off the vacation.
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Fortunate for you (and your love of pumpkin pie), it’s simple to discover a native race of your personal! To get you and your flock of family and friends impressed, listed below are 20 of the most well-liked turkey trots within the U.S. all happening on Thursday, November 24, 2016.
Picture: Dana Level Turkey Trot
1. Dana Level Turkey Trot
Location: Dana Level, CA
You’ll discover one of many nation’s largest and most scenic turkey trots proper within the coronary heart of the OC. Established in 1977, the Dana Level Turkey Trot encourages its 11,000 runners to “run the race earlier than you stuff your face.” Benefitting the Dana Level Veterans of Overseas Wars Submit 9934, amongst different charities, the occasion features a 5K, 10Ok and a “Gobble Wobble” one-mile run for youths.
Picture: Utilized Supplies Silicon Valley Turkey Trot
2. Utilized Supplies Silicon Valley Turkey Trot
Location: San Jose, CA
The Utilized Supplies Silicon Valley Turkey Trot has raised $6.9 million since its begin for native charities together with the More healthy Youngsters Basis Santa Clara County, Second Harvest Meals Financial institution and extra. Final 12 months, 24,901 folks participated — a good distance from the 1,900 members its first 12 months! Elite runners, weekend warriors and children alike be a part of within the enjoyable cruising by the flat and quick downtown space. There’s a 10Ok for runners and wheelchair athletes, a 5K and a number of children’ runs. Along with an epic costume competitors, this turkey trot additionally provides out prizes in classes like “Fittest Agency” and “Quickest Cop/Quickest Firefighter.”
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Picture: Run to Feed the Hungry
3. Run to Feed the Hungry
Location: Sacramento, CA
With all proceeds going towards the Sacramento Meals Financial institution and Household Companies, the 24th annual Run to Feed the Hungry will host greater than 29,000 runners and walkers at this 12 months’s 10Ok and 5K. (Final 12 months, this race grew to become the most important T-Day run within the nation, with 29,002 runners.) The loop programs begin close to the Sacramento State campus and run by the comfy tree-lined streets of East Sacramento, with loads of music and many spectators who take a break from the kitchen to come back out and cheer.
Picture: Turkey Path Trot XI
4. Turkey Path Trot XI
Location: San Francisco, CA
On the quirky Turkey Path Trot XI, don’t be shocked to see an enormous costumed turkey main the pack of members in foolish costumes of their very own. Benefitting the Lowell Excessive Observe & Subject workforce, the cross-country course in Golden Gate Park encompasses a 5-mile trot, 3-mile “Pilgrim Promenade” (aka a stroll) and 100-meter children’ “Gobbler Chase.” The winners of the races will take dwelling prizes of turkeys, Schubert’s Bakery pies and loads of wine!
Picture: Mile Excessive United Manner Turkey Trot
5. Mile Excessive United Manner Turkey Trot
Location: Denver, CO
Celebrating its 43rd 12 months, the Mile Excessive United Manner Turkey Trot is the highest fundraiser for the United Manner. Greater than 20,000 folks head to Denver’s Washington Park for the 4-mile race or 1/4-mile household enjoyable run. These of consuming age can benefit from the craft beer backyard social gathering (that includes native breweries like Nice Divide) on the end line.
Picture: tfxc
6. Manchester Street Race
Location: Manchester, CT
What started on a wet day in 1927 with simply 12 runners is now certainly one of New England’s most well-known street races and the most important race in Connecticut. The Manchester Street Race’s (nearly) 5-mile course attracts as much as 15,000 runners, together with Olympians, locals and no less than one Runner’s World editor, in addition to practically 20,000 spectators annually. Final 12 months, it donated greater than $100,000 to charities together with the Muscular Dystrophy Affiliation.
Picture: Atlanta Observe Membership
7. Atlanta Half Marathon
Location: Atlanta, GA
Overachievers, this one’s for you! The Atlanta Half Marathon will certainly blast extra energy, in comparison with many of the different trots on our record. Do you know Atlanta initially hosted a Thanksgiving Day full marathon from 1981 to 2009? As of late, you’ll should accept the still-awesome 13.1-mile course. It winds its well past metropolis landmarks like Centennial Olympic Park and Piedmont Park. The Atlanta custom additionally features a 5K, one-miler and 50-meter sprint.
Picture: Run Turkey Trot
8. New Orleans Athletic Membership Turkey Day Race
Location: New Orleans, LA
The New Orleans Observe Membership has been internet hosting the annual New Orleans Athletic Membership Turkey Day Race for 110 years. One of many oldest and repeatedly held non-marathon races within the nation, the 5-mile run and half-mile race for youths profit Spina Bifida of Higher New Orleans. Be part of greater than 2,000 runners in a trek to the end line at Tad Gormley Stadium in Metropolis Park, named after Francis Thomas “Tad” Gormley, the race’s unique founder.
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Picture: DMSE SPORTS
9. Feaster 5 Street Race
Location: Andover, MA
Dessert comes early on the 30th annual Feaster 5 Street Race, the place runners are rewarded with an apple pie on the end line! Operating legends like Invoice Rodgers, Joan Benoit Samuelson and Crew Hoyt have all raced towards that pie, and greater than 10,000 different members will tackle the 5-mile, 5K and children’ enjoyable runs (100-600 yards for ages 4-12) this 12 months. Proceeds from the turkey trot profit native charities together with the Merrimack Valley YMCA, Problem Limitless at Ironstone Farm and the Bellesini Academy.
Picture: Thanksgiving Day Pilgrim 5K
10. Plymouth Turkey Trot and Thanksgiving Day Pilgrim 5K
Location: Plymouth, MA
We don’t suppose the Pilgrims began the primary Thanksgiving with a operating race. However in present-day Plymouth, the place the place all of it started, they begin with two turkey trots! Each accumulate meals donations to assist the Higher Plymouth Meals Warehouse. There’s the (hilly) five-mile Plymouth Turkey Trot, which takes runners previous historic landmarks like Plymouth Rock (the place the race begins), Forefathers Monument and the Mayflower II. This 12 months, in addition they added a three-mile course. After which there’s the seventh annual flat and quick Thanksgiving Day Pilgrim 5K course which features a stretch on Outdated Sanswich Street, the oldest street in America. Run each and also you get — what else? — an enormous turkey trophy in honor of your “Second Serving to” accomplishment!
Picture: RunMichigan
11. Strategic Staffing Options Turkey Trot
Location: Detroit, MI
Greater than 21,000 Detroiters will lace up for this trot, which kicks off town’s T-Day parade. Now in its 35th 12 months, it presents a 10Ok run, 5K run/stroll, a “Mashed Potato Mile” and a “Dumbstruck Double,” which incorporates each the 10Ok and 5K distances. This 12 months, in addition they added one other two-race deal to the enjoyable, dubbed the “Cranberry Combo” — it contains tackling the one-miler and 5K.
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Picture: Run Turkey Trot
12. Quick Earlier than the Feast
Location: White Bear Lake, MN
Some runners might need private racing targets for the 10Ok, 5K and enjoyable run on the Quick Earlier than the Feast. However there’s one other lofty purpose for all members this 12 months — to donate 10,000 kilos of meals to the White Bear Space Emergency Meals Shelf and Hugo Good Neighbors Meals Shelf. Since its begin, the race has donated greater than 29,000 kilos of meals to those native charities. The largely flat neighborhood programs are actually secondary to these donations. Carry ‘em and trotters are assured free Caribou Espresso treats on the end line and entries into the 1000’s of {dollars}’ price of door prizes.
Picture: Richard / Outdated NC Runner Weblog
13. Charlotte Southpark Turkey Trot
Location: Charlotte, NC
The 29th annual Charlotte Southpark Turkey Trot is among the metropolis’s longest-running occasions and Thanksgiving Day traditions. It’s so well-liked, the sphere must be capped at 11,000 members for the 8K, 5K, 1-mile and 26.2-yard “Tot Trot.” Finishers of the loop course round South Charlotte go dwelling with a particular medal. And whoever wins the costume contest goes dwelling with some awards, too. The occasion helps charitable companions together with the McClintock Companions in Training and the Christ Lutheran Church in Charlotte.
Picture: Six Tunnels to Hoover Dam
14. Six Tunnels to Hoover Dam Turkey Trot
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Eighteen miles off the Las Vegas strip, there’s a turkey trot that runs alongside Lake Mead and alongside the Historic Railroad Trailhead. It has not one, not two, however six tunnels on the menu earlier than making its solution to the Hoover Dam! The Six Tunnels to Hoover Dam Turkey Trot is now in its ninth 12 months with members competing in a 12Ok, 5K and 1-mile stroll. This 12 months, they need runners to take it a step additional: Now members can join the half marathon possibility.
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Picture: Buffalo Niagra YMCA
15. Buffalo Niagara YMCA Turkey Trot
Location: Buffalo, NY
Created in 1896, the Buffalo Niagara YMCA Turkey Trot is the oldest consecutively run footrace in North America. Not even a record-breaking snowstorm in 2002 saved runners off the streets of Buffalo! This 12 months, anticipate 14,000 runners (the cap) and walkers to come back dressed to impress, able to tackle the 8K course and the sixth annual costume contest. The occasion helps native YMCA packages.
Picture: Western & Southern Thanksgiving Day Race
16. Western & Southern Thanksgiving Day Race
Location: Cincinnati, OH
Runners courageous freezing temps at Paul Brown Stadium, dwelling to the Cincinnati Bengals, for the annual Western & Southern Thanksgiving Day Race and McDonald’s Youngsters Run. This 12 months marks the 107th annual operating of the 10Ok occasion, making it the oldest street race of any type within the Midwest, the sixth oldest race within the nation and maybe the one turkey trot round to cross the Ohio River — twice! The race proceeds go towards the Ronald McDonald Home, Ladies on the Run, the UC Barrett Most cancers Middle and plenty of different charities.
Picture: Ohio River Street Runners Membership
17. Ohio River Street Runners Membership Turkey Trot
Location: Miamisburg, OH
It’s been round for 39 years now, however the Ohio River Street Runners Membership Turkey Trot launched a model new course simply final 12 months. Why? To accommodate its rising variety of 10,000-plus members! New this 12 months: a snug hoodie that comes along with your registration payment, a step up from the standard T-shirt. The occasion is the most important 5-mile race within the japanese half of the U.S., but additionally hosts a 1-mile non-timed run for the extra informal trotter.
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Picture: Finest Street Races
18. Run for the Diamonds
Location: Berwick, PA
We’re nonetheless undecided what diamonds should do with Thanksgiving, however the bling positive will get 2,000 runners up and at ‘em! The highest seven female and male winners of the difficult 9-mile Run for Diamonds (the fourth oldest street race in America), take dwelling diamond rings and diamond pendants, respectively. And for many who miss out on the prized jewels, there’s at all times free post-race pizza to look ahead to!
Picture: arlingtonturkeytrot.org
19. Arlington Turkey Trot
Location: Arlington, TX
Texas sports activities followers will love the eighth annual Arlington Turkey Trot, which provides runners an opportunity to race previous Rangers Ballpark and Cowboys Stadium on the out-and-back 5K loop. There have been greater than 1,000 timed runners take part within the trot and much more toe the road for the “Puffin’ and Stuffin’” one-mile enjoyable run. Winners get a free pair of sneakers and race proceeds assist The Shoe Financial institution, a neighborhood charity that gives footwear for 25,000 folks in want annually.
Picture: Dallas YMCA
20. Capital One Financial institution Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot
Location: Dallas, TX
Additionally benefitting the YMCA, the Dallas Turkey Trot actually proves that all the pieces’s larger in Texas. The 50th annual race expects practically 40,000 runners for its 8-mile run and 5K run/stroll, making it one of many largest multi-event races within the nation. (And when you can’t make it to Dallas, you too can take part nearly.) This trot attracts elite runners and common ol’ birds alike. In reality, in 2011, it set a world document for the most important gathering of individuals dressed as turkeys.
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Picture: Life Time Turkey Trots
21. Turkey Day 5K Boise
Location: Boise, IA
With races in 5 areas throughout the nation, the Life Time Turkey Day 5K is all about household and buddies kicking off the vacation collectively in a wholesome, completely happy approach. (In addition to Boise, the race additionally occurs in Chicago, Miami, Minneapolis and Phoenix.) The Boise course, which is quick and flat, is good for runners and walkers alike. Carry canned meals to the beginning space — they’ll be donated to the pantries of Boise Rescue Mission and Metropolis Gentle Residence for Girls and Kids — and also you’ll be entered right into a particular prize lottery, only for doing good.
Picture: Feast and Feathers Half-Marathon
22. Feast and Feathers Path Half-Marathon/10Ok/5K
Location: Omaha, NE
Weekend warriors will flock to this path half, however because of the 10Ok and 5K distances, anybody can take part on the motion. In reality, even children can be a part of the enjoyable with the Lil Gobbler Trot — a free race, so long as you carry 5 cans of meals to learn the Meals Financial institution of Heartland. In fact the 5K loop is best, however the half offers a number of the finest views of Cunningham Lake (and further room for stuffing).
Picture: Eli Johnson Pictures / Fleet Toes Sports activities Knoxville
23. Sizzling to Trot 10Ok/5K/Enjoyable Run
Location: Knoxville, TN
Held yearly by sportswear store Fleet Toes Knoxville, this race is all about neighborhood. Not solely was there a pleasant contest for runners to design this 12 months’s official brand, native handmade pottery will function trophies. Additionally, all proceeds profit A Hand Up For Girls, a charity that focuses on mentorship, training and improvement for women and girls.
Picture: Naperville Lions
24. Naperville Turkey Trot
Location: Naperville, IL
Organized by the native Lions Membership, this flat course is nice for these seeking to nab a PR. Now in it’s 20th 12 months, 7,500 runners are anticipated to hit the course this Thanksgiving. And since you deserve a scrumptious breakfast after a strong run, there’s a pancake feast served afterwards — freed from cost.
Picture: Trot for Starvation
25. Thanksgiving Day Trot for Starvation
Location: Washington, DC
Elevate cash and consciousness for DC’s homeless inhabitants by registering for the 16th annual Trot for Starvation, the place race proceeds assist 1000’s of households within the DC space. Issues kick off first for the children’ one-mile Enjoyable Run, then the 5K, all ranging from Freedom Plaza. You’ve the choice to run with a chip or with out, so use the day to PR or simply shake out your legs on a very good powerwalk.
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Picture: Pensacola Turkey Trot for Thought
26. Pensacola Seaside Trot for Thought
Location: Pensacola Seaside, FL
With a beautiful, coastal course, the Trot for Thought is definitely essentially the most stress-free and scenic 5K — you run proper between the serene shorelines of the Santa Rosa Sound and the Gulf of Mexico. Proceeds from the race profit mind most cancers analysis by the Preston Robert Tisch Tumor Middle at Duke College. Oh, and this race is dog-friendly — simply make certain your pooch is up for 3.1 miles beforehand!
Picture: Oklahoma Metropolis Turkey Trot
27. Oklahoma Metropolis Turkey Tracks 5K
Location: Oklahoma Metropolis, OK
Run round downtown Oklahoma Metropolis for this 5K or one-mile Enjoyable Run. However earlier than you begin stepping, you’ll want to drop off a brand new, unwrapped reward with the US Marine Corps Toys for Tots Basis drop. Organizers hope to offer 1,000 Christmas toys to needy kids within the Oklahoma Metropolis space.
Picture: Turkey Trek
28. 15th Annual Turkey Trek
Location: Albuquerque, NM
If you happen to’ve ever seen epic images from the annual hot-air balloon competition, you understand Balloon Park, which serves as a border for this Turkey Trek. With a 5K run, a health stroll and a Enjoyable Run, the entire household can get entangled in a race that meets his or her particular person health degree. Much more enjoyable: a fancy dress contest with a male, feminine and child winner.
Picture: Bay St Louis Turkey Trot
29. Match First Turkey Trot
Location: Bay St. Louis, MS
Solely in its fifth 12 months, this Trot is all about our furry buddies, as each race participant (and spectator!) is requested to carry canned pet meals, deal with or toy for donation. As well as, all proceeds will profit the native animal shelter. Let’s face it: Though pets are such an vital a part of the household, Thanksgiving will be the sooner or later we overlook that. This Turkey Trot is the right reminder.
Picture: CFA North Dakota
30. CFA North Dakota Turkey Trot
Location: Bismarck, ND
Enjoyable, frosty beards and snowy streets apart, this Turkey Trot is a crucial one as it’s held by (and all proceeds go towards) the Cystic Fibrosis Affiliation of North Dakota. With a 10Ok run, 5K run, 5K stroll and a enjoyable stroll, there’s a race for everybody within the fam. Simply be sure to costume for the climate — current years have been frigid and snowy.
Not inside trotting distance of any of the races listed above? Try the race directories on Lively.com or Operating within the USA to discover a Thanksgiving Day turkey trot close to you.
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Initially posted on November 25, 2013. Up to date November 2017.
