Kick Off Your Turkey Day with a 5K
Because the first thing everyone wants to do on Thanksgiving morning is run a 5k...
When my mom first proposed the idea of running in the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning, I was quick to shrug it off. Isn’t the point of this holiday to stuff yourself with as much food as you can just to fall asleep on the couch?
I quickly realized how wrong I was. The reality is, Thanksgiving is about family and community. That’s where it all began, anyway.
Turkey Trots – the 5k walks/runs that are held on Thanksgiving morning in towns across America – are a tradition for many families and friends who come together to exercise in preparation for their big meal later that day.
I have participated in two Turkey Trots, and I must say, they are well worth the early wake-up. People come to the race decked out in Thanksgiving spirit attire. You’ll find babies dressed like pilgrims, strollers made to look like the Mayflower, and even dogs wearing turkey costumes. The atmosphere is joyful and the air smells of coffee and free doughnuts.
Many of these races are locally sponsored and often are for a charitable cause. My town’s Turkey Trot encouraged runners and families to bring canned goods to donate to the local food bank. It’s a nice way to get with the holiday spirit and give back to your community.
If you’ve never done a Turkey Trot, or even heard of one, I suggest you grab your friends and family and give it a try.
Check out these local Turkey Trots happening on or around Thanksgiving that you can register for this year:
This event is for anyone and everyone, whether you are a runner or not. Plus, you’ll thank yourself later that day when you get ready to fill up your third plate.
Happy Thanksgiving and as always,
Be well, Auburn.
Photography: Cat S.