Chicago’s Turkey Trots

image credit: Turkey Trot Chicago

Thanksgiving is almost here!  One growing holiday tradition is the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, which gives families and friends the chance to get some fresh air and a little exercise before their delicious food-related festivities begin.  Most organized Turkey Trots also send contributions to non-profit organizations and charities, which provides participants the opportunity to say “thanks” in a meaningful way.

If a Turkey Trot sounds like an activity you’d “gobble” up, below are links to some Turkey Trots happening in Chicago:

33rd Annual Turkey Trot 8K in Lincoln Park

http://www.turkeytrotchicago.com

Over 5,000 walkers and runners are planned to participate in this 8K run/walk, which will also feature the Plymouth Rock Ramble for children ages 2-12. Don’t forget to bring a couple of cans of food to donate to the Greater Chicago Food Depository. At last year’s race over 10,000 pounds of food were collected.  For event registration and information, click here.

14th Annual Edison Park Turkey Trot in Edison Park

http://www.epturkeytrot.org/index.html

Held in Edison Park on the northwest side of Chicago, this 5K will benefit the The Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago with The Danny Did Foundation & Emmett’s Hope.  There will also be a Gobble Gallop for kids 12 and under.  For event registration and information, click here.

Old St. Pat’s Annual Turkey Trot at Old St. Patrick’s Church

http://oldstpats.org/blog/event/old-st-pats-annual-turkey-trot/

If Thanksgiving doesn’t exactly inspire your competitive spirit, Old St. Pat’s noncompetitive trot through Chicago’s Loop, Museum Campus, and the lakefront may be for you.  Although participants will be dividing into groups of walkers, joggers, and runners, this trot is “easy, relaxed, no racing; just socializing.” All are invited to attend, just bring a few cans of food to donate.  For more information, click here.

What race are you doing?  Share your race times, stories and photos! Good luck.