The Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Trot Guide: What to Know (2023)
If you’re not a runner, you probably relate to the internet meme that says, “My biggest fear is marrying into a family that runs 5Ks on Thanksgiving.” But what if running a Thanksgiving Turkey Trot isn’t all that bad?
I’ve run Thanksgiving Turkey Trots in several states– South Carolina, Idaho, and my current home state, Tennessee. Most races have been the 5k distance, while the one I ran most recently in 2022 was a five-mile race.
Let’s break down the Turkey Trot tradition and why you might want to consider running one this year.
What is a Thanksgiving Turkey Trot?
This running race takes place on Thanksgiving, usually in the morning.
A Turkey Trot is often a 5k (3.1 miles) or longer. You can opt to run the race, walk the race, or do a run/walk hybrid.
The most common names of these races are “Turkey Trot” or “Gobble Wobble.” Other popular Thanksgiving Day runs across the US include:
- Thanksgiving Day 5k
- Thanksgiving Classic
- Thankful Run
- Sticks and Biscuits
Many Turkey Trots encourage runners to dress up. This means you’ll likely be running beside a bunch of turkeys.
Is it Okay to Walk?
YES!
The best part about Thanksgiving Turkey Trots is that they are family-friendly events. This means that you’ll see families running or walking together. At some events,, parents push strollers (some while running!).
But if you’re a serial non-runner, don’t count yourself out for your town’s Turkey Trot. Walk that distance and feel good about the accomplishment!
Why Do People Run on Thanksgiving?
Why do people run – period? There are many reasons, but it’s understandable that non-runners can’t comprehend waking up early on a holiday morning to run a race.
Some of the common reasons people run on Thanksgiving include:
Tradition
For many runners, running the local Turkey Trot is a tradition. Whether it be with their family, friends, or themselves, it just wouldn’t be Thanksgiving with an early morning race.
During the 2020 COVID-19 Thanksgiving, many runners (myself included) opted to run a virtual Turkey trot.
Burn calories before indulging.
Many of us are less active during the holiday season and indulge a bit more.
By running a Turkey Trot, you’ve tricked your body before you’re even awake (okay, maybe not) to do some exercise. I’ve always enjoyed the post-race hunger that sets in right as the appetizers are served.
See a new city on foot.
If you’re traveling to see family or friends in another place, running a Turkey Trot is a fantastic way to see your surroundings.
In 2019, my boyfriend and I traveled to visit family in Boise, Idaho. We signed up for the Boise Turkey Day 5k, which ran through the downtown area. It was a great way to see a new city and kickstart the holiday.
Raise money for charity.
Most of the Thanksgiving day races held support a charity. Running the race usually gives you the option to donate or raise money for the charity. Sometimes, a portion of your registration fee will go to support the charity.
Running a race can be a great way to give back during the holiday season.
A chance to win money
If you’re a fast runner, you could win money! Some of the Thanksgiving Turkey Trots offer prize rewards for the runners to finish first. If you’re looking to earn some holiday spending money, consider training for your local Turkey Trot.
Post-race beer
So many running events end with post-race beer at the finish line for those runners of legal drinking age. I’ve met several runners over my decade as a long-distance runner who do it for the beer.
Turkey Trot Stats in the US
In 2022, RunSignUp published a report showing Turkey Trots’ growth across the US.
The numbers include how many people participated, the number of races, how large the races were, and even charitable fundraising amounts.
RunSignUp is one of several race registration platforms. This means the numbers are an undercount.
However, RunSignUp has become one of the most widely used platforms in the running community, so the report is still worthwhile to get an understanding of these popular events.
Important Stats – 2022
According to RunSignUp, the following information was determined for the 2022 Thanksgiving Day running events:
- 730 Thanksgiving running events across the US
- 756,894 participants
- $1,891,109.69 raised for charity
- Largest demographic: Runners 50 years and older, followed by runners under 18
My Turkey Trot Experiences
I’ve noted that I’ve run Thanksgiving races in three states.
In 2017 and 2018, I ran the Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble 5k in Charleston, South Carolina. This was my first Turkey Trot experience, and I loved it! This is the race that got me hooked on the concept of running a race on Thanksgiving morning.
In 2019, my boyfriend and I ran the Boise Turkey Day 5k. The elevation got to us a little bit, as did the frigid temperature of 33ºF. But it turned out to be a great way to see a city I’d never visited before.
For many of us, the 2020 and 2021 Thanksgiving holidays meant running a virtual Turkey Trot. While getting a 5k in before feasting was still fun, we missed the excitement of running with others.
In 2022, we ran the Boulevard Bolt in Nashville. Instead of a 5k, this is a 5-mile race. My boyfriend and I both had so much fun at this event. It brings out a massive crowd, so if you plan to race it, you must be close to the start line when it begins.
I love the Turkey Trot events for several reasons. Getting active with my community, finding gratitude for how my body can move, and trying to progress as a runner. I love running, especially running in the fall.
Final Thoughts: Thanksgiving Turkey Trot
Whether you run or walk the local Turkey Trot, this tradition might become one of your favorites. Dress up as a turkey or run with a group of friends. Running a race on Thanksgiving could be a beautiful start to your personal running journey!
