Believe it or not, Thanksgiving is the most popular holiday for running. It’s likely not a coincidence that people have chosen America’s biggest feast season to burn off some extra calories, but also so many people being active suggests collective gratitude. There is a lot to be grateful for this time of year - family and friends visiting from out of town, the beauty of the changing seasons and the ability to be active.
The Centerville-Washington Parks Great Turkey Trek, the Miamisburg Turkey Trot and the Dayton Turkey Trot are not just races. They are celebrations of gratitude, unity and community spirit. Each event has its own draw, ranging from family-focused walks to more serious runs. Each event also benefits a nonprofit organization.
“It’s a lot of fun and it’s the best time of year to go for a hike. We have quite a few people who dress up in their turkey hats and costumes,” shares Alyssa Schulte, fitness and wellness supervisor for Centerville-Washington Park District.
Centerville-Washington Parks: Great Turkey Trek
This event offers a 5K adventure hike and a 1-mile paved option. Kids participating in the adventure hike gather sections of a map along the route while enjoying the fall scenery. At the finish line, they can assemble the pieces and trade them for a prize! Attendees can also bring new, colorful socks for Socks for the Shoeless.
Saturday, November 18 | 12-3 p.m.
Parking at Forest Field Park
2100 E. Centerville Station Rd, Centerville
Miamisburg Turkey Trot
Both the 5K and a 1-mile fun run/walk through scenic Miamisburg are paved. There is a gentle hill in the first mile of this race, so it’s great for moderate runners but is still friendly to families. Proceeds benefit the Ohio River Road Runners Club, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting running and walking.
Thursday, November 23 | 8:30 a.m.
Corner of E. Linden Ave and S. Main St, Miamisburg
Dayton Turkey Trot
The Dayton Turkey Trot has grown into one of the region's premier Thanksgiving-oriented traditions. This event features a half marathon (13.1 miles), a 5K and a kid's race. Enjoy Bill's Donuts at the finish line and feel good knowing proceeds benefit the YWCA.
Sunday, November 26 | 8:15 a.m. Kids Dash
8:30 a.m. 5K and Half Marathon
1601 S. Edwin C. Moses Blvd, Dayton