The unofficial start of the holiday season isn’t the smell of pumpkin pie in the oven; it’s the sound of thousands of running shoes hitting the pavement before dawn on Thanksgiving morning. Here at Runs with Pugs, we firmly believe the annual Turkey Trot is the absolute best running tradition of the year, and it has nothing to do with “earning” the feast.
Let’s talk about the community, joy, and movement that sets a positive tone for a day focused on gratitude.
Turkey Trots Are All About Community
What makes the Turkey Trot unique is its distinctly low-pressure, high-fun atmosphere. Unlike a goal marathon or a competitive half, the Turkey Trot is a family affair. You’ll see costumes, strollers, and entire extended families, out and about before the cooking begins. The energy is infectious, and it’s a great reminder that running is a shared experience, not just a solitary pursuit. Even better, many Turkey Trots are structured to benefit local food banks, turning a morning run into a genuine act of community service. Our local Trot requests a donation of canned goods or a few dollars when picking up your race day packet.
Turkey Trots Help Build A Positive Mindset
The best reason to lace up before the turkey is simple: it sets a a positive and energetic tone for the entire day. By getting out for some morning movement, we can start the day on the right foot, literally. Before 9AM we’ve already moved our body and soaked in our fresh air and Vitamin D. It’s the perfect segue to a busy day, however that looks for you!
Turkey Trots Are Everywhere!
No matter if you’re home or traveling, chances are you can find a Turkey Trot on or around Thanksgiving morning. It’s great running local, but it’s also wonderful being welcomed into the traditions of another region. Check out local race listings so you don’t miss out, even when you’re far from home!
How To Have The Best Turkey Trot
You might be racing for a PR or you might be walking with your family, but here are some pro tips to have the best Thanksgiving Day race possible.
- Layer Up: Early November mornings can be crisp! Dress in thin layers you can easily shed at the start line.
- Dress In Theme: I highly support costume running, so take advantage! Wear a fun turkey hat, or even a full turkey suit! Themed shirts, colors, and tutus are also awesome. Read here for more tips on Costume Running 101.
- Hydrate Early: The holidays often involve less attention to water intake. Make sure you hydrate well the day before and immediately after the race.
- Involve Everyone: Encourage non-running family members and friends to join in to walk the route, volunteer, or just be the designated cheerleaders. When running becomes a shared event, it creates lasting memories.
Where are you Turkey Trotting this year?
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Such a joyful post, Jenn!
I used to do them when we lived in Naples, FL, and I absolutely loved the festive atmosphere. I liked how it was also a very inclusive event – strollers, dogwalkers, wheelchairs, all were welcome.
I really miss that tradition now! I love all your happy photos!
They are really the best time!
My husband and I put on a Turkey Trot for about 20 years. It was fun but exhausting. Now I’m looking forward to doing one with my grandchildren!
That is super fun, but doing one with the grandkids sounds even more exciting! I love that and I hope it’s the best time!
Turkey trots are so much fun and a great way to kick off the holiday season.
They are so fun!
Its been awhile since Ive done a turkey trot, but they are so much fun! For awhile we did family runs on Thanksgiving morning. Now that my son can’t be in the stroller I am hoping soon he can run or bike alongside us!
Oh, how fun that will be! I think it will be so fun when that happens!
I think a turkey trot no matter the distance is the best way to celebrate the holiday.