Imagine running—and not for your life.
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I hear it’s popular, especially around the holidays. While places like New York City and Boston are famous for their marathons, the United States is also home to another and far more distinct type of event: the Turkey Trot.
While some live in fear of marrying into a Turkey Trot family (one that wakes up at the crack of dawn on Thanksgiving not to bake turkey but to lace up their running shoes), others look forward to the invigorating marathon.
In fact, it’s a generational tradition for thousands of families.
And while the name might sound novel and new, trots have been around for well over a century. The first was launched in Buffalo, New York back in 1986. Dozens of others followed shortly thereafter and have since celebrated their centennials.
But which Turkey Trots come out head? In reality, they come in all shapes and sizes. Here’s where you can find some of the most memorable events in the United States.
Oldest in the US: Buffalo Annual YMCA Turkey Trot
The Buffalo Turkey Trot is an 8K (almost five miles) marathon that runs on Thanksgiving Day in Buffalo. As mentioned up top, this is the oldest of the bunch. It was first run in 1896, which also makes it the world’s oldest consecutively won footrace.
Not too shabby, Buffalo—especially considering this event continues to attract around 14,000 runners each year.
Longest event: 100-Mile Milwaukee-to-Chicago Turkey Trot
Didn’t believe me when I said trots come in all shapes and sizes? This popular Turkey Trot stumbled onto the scene in 2013 as a joke between two friends.
Determined to launch their own event, they headed north… getting into a few hilarious jams on the way. Since then, it’s become a beloved tradition for adventurous spirits. The trot also donates its proceeds to the ALS Foundation after one of its original founding members was diagnosed only one year after the inaugural run. (I guess Turkey Trots can also make you tear up.)
Keep in mind that this is a mini-marathon event that usually includes around 20 runners. If you want to run with this crew, join their Facebook page.
Biggest marathon: Turkey Trot Chicago
With upwards of 40,000 participants and only around 40 years of experience under its belt, Chicago’s annual event is one of the youngest and yet the largest in the country.
In fact, according to Great Runs, most other trots top out at around 20,000 participants. I had no idea Chicago was such an athletic city.
Prettiest setting: Dana Point CA Turkey Trot
Who doesn’t dream of exploring some of Orange County’s most scenic roads and beaches? And what better way to do that than getting fit on Thanksgiving?
Welcome to the Dana Point CA Turkey Trot, which offers 5K and 10K options for participants. Those who join get a first-class tour of the area, too.
Most hardcore competition: Detroit Turkey Trot
Most trots are organized to benefit local charities, giving runners the chance to benchmark their finishes while supporting the community. Others, by contrast, take a more varied approach…
That’s the case with the historical Detroit Turkey Trot. Participants can choose between a handful of routes—from the family-friendly Mashed Potato Mile to combination events that combine running and walking.
Most relaxed event: Myrtle Beach
Like the Dana Point CA Turkey Trot, this selection takes you along the coast to some truly scenic areas. In fact, it’s a popular choice for families that often visit Myrtle Beach during summer.
In other words, even if only one family member is planning on trotting, the rest will still have plenty to do in charming Myrtle Beach in the meantime.
Most fun trot: Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot
Most of the trots mentioned here offer kids’ events. Some take those kid-friendly offerings into new territory, including the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot.
You can walk and/or run in various races, from the 5K to a virtual trot. There’s also a Diaper Dash for kids and tons of family fun that includes a dog trot, stroller-trot, and activities like cornhole.
Coolest event: New Orleans
Just about everything is cooler in NOLA—including its Turkey Trot offerings. Launched back in 1907, it’s also one of the first trots in the US… and it’s actually called the Turkey Day Race by locals.
What makes this marathon cool is its route through the city, which transports you into the past in historic districts, giving you a peep into City Park, French Quarter architecture, and much more.
