Burning Calories Before Burning the Turkey: A Guide to El Paso’s Annual Turkey Trot

As Thanksgiving approaches, people across America prepare for the big feast. But in El Paso, Texas locals know the holiday really kicks off with an iconic tradition – the annual YMCA Turkey Trot. This beloved 5k run/walk draws thousands of participants each year for some healthy exercise before indulging in all the delicious Thanksgiving calories.

In 2024 El Paso will host the 48th annual YMCA Turkey Trot. This hugely popular event offers both a 5k timed run and a 1 mile family fun walk option. It’s a chance for people of all ages and fitness levels to come together for a charitable cause while getting pumped up for the holidays.

A El Paso Thanksgiving Tradition

The El Paso YMCA Turkey Trot first debuted in 1977 and has taken place every Thanksgiving morning since. Only taking a break in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this race has become a beloved local tradition over its nearly five decade history.

Participants bundle up in the brisk November air and make their way downtown for the 7am start. The flat, fast course takes runners and walkers from the starting line at Montana and Virginia Streets on a tour through the city.

Stretching 3.1 miles, the route is perfect for seasoned racers and newbies alike. El Paso’s clear skies and mountain views provide a scenic backdrop as people stride toward the finish line.

The family-friendly atmosphere and feel-good vibes keep participants coming back year after year. Generations of families even make this annual 5K a tradition, passing the Turkey Trot baton down to kids and grandkids.

More Than Just a Race

While the Turkey Trot provides a great reason to get active before the big meal, it also serves a greater purpose – raising funds for the YMCA of El Paso. Proceeds support scholarships, program subsidies, and the Y’s many community health initiatives.

The race has become the YMCA’s largest annual fundraiser, allowing them to provide services to thousands of local families and individuals in need. In 2021, the Turkey Trot raised over $250,000 to help the YMCA continue its work improving lives across El Paso.

Donations and sponsorships from companies like Caliente Radio, Garden Fresh Farms, and Monica’s Insurance have been instrumental to the event’s fundraising power. Racers can feel good knowing their registration fees and pledges go to a great cause that benefits the whole community.

Going the Distance

The YMCA Turkey Trot caters to all skill levels with two participation options:

5K Timed Run

This chip-timed 5k (3.1 mile) run starts at 7am. The course heads downtown past some of El Paso’s iconic landmarks. Runners loop around the ballpark and back again toward the finish line at Montana and Kansas.

The 5K run draws competitive racers as well as casual joggers. Runners ages 10 and up can register in one of many gender and age brackets vying for top honors.

1 Mile Family Fun Walk

Starting at 7:15am, this untimed one mile loop welcomes walkers of all ages and paces. Parents push strollers on the leisurely route while kids often dress up in turkey costumes or other festive outfits.

The fun walk’s relaxed vibe makes it ideal for families, groups of friends, and anyone seeking an enjoyable stroll before the big feast.

Feast Like a Champ

Burning nearly 400 calories during a 5K run sure works up an appetite! Once marathoners and fun walkers cross the finish line, it’s time for some hard earned feasting.

The YMCA Turkey Trot Celebration Village offers some hearty post-race nourishment. Juice, coffee, and other drinks rehydrate runners while sponsors like OWYHEE hand out fresh oranges.

Once home, racers can dive into Thanksgiving meals complete with turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and all the fixings. Eating guilt-free has never been so satisfying!

More Than Just a Race

From serious runners chasing new PRs to grandparents walking hand-in-hand with grandkids, El Pasoans of all ages and abilities embrace the Turkey Trot tradition.

But it’s not just the 5K itself that makes this Thanksgiving race so special. Fundraising for local families, enjoying time with friends old and new, giving back to the community – that’s what this event is really all about.

So join us on Thanksgiving morning 2024 as we lace up our shoes, give thanks, and share in the spirit of health, charity, and holiday cheer! The El Paso Turkey Trot is so much more than just a race.