Every Thanksgiving morning, before even thinking about the delicious feast to come, thousands of people around the USA gather together to dress up, give thanks and take part in a Turkey Trot.
“What the heck is a Turkey Trot?”, we hear you ask.
Well, it’s a tradition older than the Boston Marathon and it involves running around in wacky themed outfits.
From turkey hats and matching t-shirts to a full-on turkey suit – all in the spirit of togetherness.
World records are also set at these fun-runs – in Texas in 2011, the World Record for the most people dressed as turkeys at a single get-together! – Who even knew that was a World Record?
Maybe you fancy shaking your tail feathers at one of these events in 2020?
New York
New York City and Westchester both offer 5 or 10K options available to walk or run.
If you’re still not sold, each participant gets a medal and a donut at the end – which makes it way more tempting!
Las Vegas
Away from the bright lights of the Las Vegas strip, runners who compete in the Las Vegas Turkey Trot will pass through the Historic Railroad Trail and pass through the Six Tunnels to Hoover Dam.
You can choose a distance from half marathon to 12K, 5K or 1 mile – so there is something for everyone!
Louisville, Colorado
Colorado is home to numerous Turkey Trots but this one in Louisville is different!
By competing in this event, you’ll not only burn those much-needed calories, but you will also help fill the shelves and fight local hunger.
A portion of event proceeds and all donated non-perishable food will benefit Community Food Share serving Boulder and Broomfield Counties.
San Diego
Starting under the famous “ENCINITAS” sign on Coast Highway 101 is the start and finish to the Encinitas Turkey Trot.
In late November, the early morning offers a beautiful colour to the Pacific Ocean, the perfect backdrop for a 5 or 10K stroll with the family!
If you are wanting to give back, join more than 7500 walkers bright and early in Balboa Park to help bring an end to homelessness in San Diego. Father Joe’s Villages Thanksgiving Day 5K includes a post-race festival with live music, costume contests and more!
Plymouth, Massachusetts
This 5K race includes “historically inaccurate” pilgrim costumes and a race through iconic pilgrim scenes!
Warm-up afterward with free hot apple cider, better yet, the age group winners each go home with a homemade pumpkin pie!
Follow #TURKEYTRADITION on social media for more amazing photos!