9 Turkey Trots to Be Thankful For in 2014

Written by
Chase down that turkey-costumed runner and the sweet potato casserole and pumpkin pie will taste much sweeter on Thanksgiving. Gather your running buddies, family, friends and neighbors, and support your local turkey trot. These nine races, many of which benefit charities, promote the gratitude and family-centric celebrations of the season.
40th Longmont Turkey Trot
Longmont, Colorado - November 8, 2014
1 of 10
Get your trot on early at the Longmont Turkey Trot, a 10K and 2-mile race whose profits benefit the city's recreation services youth scholarship fund. Schools, running groups and others can register at a discounted price.
San Dimas Turkey Trot
San Dimas, California - November 22, 2014
1 of 10
Take in scenic mountain and lake views while you run through the woods, cross a stream and trek across dirt and paved trails at this fun-filled annual event. With a 5K, 10K and Kids Fun Run, this Turkey Trot has something for everyone.
Napa Valley Turkey Trot
Napa, California - November 22, 2014
1 of 10
Run through Wine Country in this scenic 5K. The flat course takes you through the Napa College campus and Napa River Trail. Enjoy this family-friendly event that includes music and a Family Fun Kid Zone. If you're not up for the 5K, try the Family Fun Mile run instead.
Lincolnwood Turkey Trot
Lincolnwood, Illinois - November 23, 2014
1 of 10
This CARA-certified 5K and 10K race takes you on a flat, fast course through scenic Lincolnwood. A 5K walk and Drumstick Dash (for children 10 and younger) rounds out this historic running event. Enjoy raffles and the rock 'n' roll sounds of the Wind Gypsies during the post-race party.
Music City Thanksgiving Day 8/4 Miler
Nashville, Tennessee - November 27, 2014
1 of 10
Are you ready to party? Run or walk to your favorite tunes as you enjoy scenic views of downtown Nashville. Plus, the 3rd Annual Music City Thanksgiving Day Run/Walk begins and ends at LP Field, home of the Tennessee Titans.
Myrtle Beach/Surfside Beach Turkey Trot
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina - November 27, 2014
1 of 10
Participate in one of the largest races in Myrtle Beach. The race starts and finishes at Surfside Pier, followed by delicious post-race treats such as Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and Bojangle Biscuits. Decorative medals go to the top three age-group finishers.
Way Station Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot
Frederick, Maryland - November 27, 2014
1 of 10
Run with your pooch, baby stroller, or by yourself at this family-friendly 5K, 10K and 1K Gobbler Trot. Walkers are welcome. Proceeds benefit the scholarship/youth program at the Westside YMCA.
San Francisco Turkey Trot
San Francisco, California - November 27, 2014
1 of 10
Grab the kids and head to Golden Gate Park for an event that includes a 5-mile run and a 3-mile walk. The highlight of the day will likely be the Gobbler Chase—a 100-meter race for the kids against a life-sized turkey.
Abilene Turkey Trot 2014
November 27, 2014 - Abilene, Texas
1 of 10
Run in the morning in this 11th annual event and eat guilt free all day. Sponsored by Texas Sport & Spine, this race is the largest running event in Abilene. Proceeds benefit the West Texas Rehab Center.
1 of 10