Turkey trots are a beloved Thanksgiving tradition for many runners and walkers. These festive races take place in cities across America every November. But if you’re considering participating in a turkey trot for the first time, you may be wondering – how long is a typical turkey trot? Let’s take a look at the common distances for these Thanksgiving Day events.
What is a Turkey Trot?
A turkey trot is a fun run or race that takes place on or around Thanksgiving day These events evolved from informal runs among friends to large scale races that thousands participate in every year.
Turkey trots often have a festive, community atmosphere. Many feature participants dressed up in colorful turkey costumes or pilgrim attire. They welcome all levels, from competitive racers to families out for a fun holiday activity.
Proceeds from most turkey trots go to charity. So they provide a way to give back while also getting in a healthy activity before the big feast. Turkey trots have become a tradition for many on Thanksgiving morning.
Typical Distances
While turkey trots come in different lengths, the most common distance is 3.1 miles or 5 kilometers (5K). This makes them accessible to most ages and fitness levels. Many turkey trots also feature shorter 1 mile fun runs so the whole family can participate.
Other popular turkey trot lengths include:
- 8K (5 miles)
- 10K (6.2 miles)
- 8 miles
- 15K
A few also feature marathon (26.2 miles) and half marathon (13.1 miles) distances. The Buffalo Turkey Trot in New York is one of the few that hosts a longer 8 mile race on Thanksgiving.
Turkey trots cater to serious runners looking to race as well as families and less experienced runners So most keep the courses on the shorter side, The 5K is perfect for attracting all ages and abilities
Fun Run Distances
In addition to 5Ks up to half marathons, many turkey trots include untimed fun runs These are usually 1-2 miles and focus on participation over competition
Fun runs allow families to walk together and aren’t restricted by pace requirements. They help teach kids about giving back through charity races. Costume contests and activities like face painting also make the fun runs festive.
Mascots like turkeys and pilgrims often run the course too, high-fiving participants of all ages. Fun runs range from 1 mile to 2 miles, keeping the distance unintimidating for kids and casual runners.
Children’s Distances
To include children, some turkey trots feature special kids’ races and toddler trots. These miniature versions are under a mile and allow the young ones to get in on the excitement.
Kids’ turkey trots help instill healthy habits and show running can be fun. Watching older siblings and parents participate also helps kids feel part of the action. Typical kids’ distances are:
- Toddler trots: 50-100 yards
- Ages 5-7: 200-400 yards
- Ages 8-10: 400-800 yards
Having a dedicated kids’ race with a medal at the finish makes them feel accomplished. It’s an easy way to start the tradition of enjoying an annual turkey trot as a family.
Choosing the Right Distance
So when selecting a turkey trot, consider your goals. If you want a challenging race, opt for a 10K or longer event. Treat it as a benchmark for your fitness.
If you’d rather take it easy and enjoy the festivities, a 5K allows you to trot along and have fun. And pick a fun run if you want a leisurely route with kids or less athletic friends.
Look for kids’ races and activities too if you have a young family. Most turkey trots offer options for all skill levels and ages. Just remember that the most common distance is the 5K.
Turkey trots offer the chance to get moving while giving back on Thanksgiving morning. The most popular distance is the 5K, which welcomes runners and walkers of all abilities. Fun runs, kids’ races, and longer distances are also common to provide options for everyone. Choose based on your pace preference and whether you want to race or just participate. Then get ready to gobble and trot your way through a feel-good Thanksgiving tradition.
Get To Know the Festival Foods Turkey Trot!
Get your workout in this Thanksgiving Day.
The Festival Foods Turkey Trot is the perfect guilt-free solution for eating your weight in mashed potatoes.
The Festival Foods Turkey Trot allows participants to partake in either the untimed 2-Mile Walk, 2-Mile Fun Run, or the timed 5-Mile Run, and is open to everyone of all ages and abilities. Don’t forget to bring your favorite cuddly companion for the 2-Mile Dog Jog.
Make sure you use the hashtag #FestivalFoodsTurkeyTrot when adding photos to social media — we want to see your smiling faces!
Lets talk goodies! What’s provided with my registration?
- Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
- Pumpkin Pie
- Exclusive Coupons
- Post-Race Snacks
- Race-Day Bib
- Participating with a dog? Your furry friend will also receive a custom dog jog bandana, and a race day bib!”
- Total value of over $65 per registration
We have many volunteer positions available at each race location. The best part? You’ll receive a free Festival Foods Turkey Trot shirt! Just choose your location and click the “Volunteer Sign Up” button on your preferred location page to register.
Turkey Trot: a serious running documentary
FAQ
How long is the average Turkey Trot?
What is the point of a Turkey Trot?
How many miles is the Troy Turkey Trot?
Is it okay to walk the Turkey Trot?
What is a turkey trot?
Turkey trots are footraces, usually of the long-distance variety, held on or around Thanksgiving Day in the United States. The name is derived from the use of turkey as a common centerpiece of the Thanksgiving dinner. A few races in the United Kingdom during the Christmas period are described as turkey trots.
How long is a turkey trot?
A warm-up gets your joints, muscles, and brain prepared and gets the blood flowing. Some dynamic (moving) stretches for your lower body will be great. Distance: The official Turkey Trot is eight kilometers or about five miles. Not everyone finished it in the original event, and you don’t have to either.
When was the first Turkey Trot held?
The first Turkey Trot was held on Thanksgiving Day in 1896 in Buffalo, New York. It was an eight-kilometer race hosted by the YMCA; six people participated, and only four finished. People have run the Turkey Trot every year since — through blizzards and pandemics — making it the oldest race in North America.
Do turkey trots include a 5K & a 1 mile run?
Most Turkey Trots include a 5k and a one-mile fun run also known as a tot trot. When you fill out your race registration and online waiver, it will ask if you want a race day t-shirt with shirt size option as well as a finisher medal. You can usually save money by opting out of these options if you do not want them.