Thanksgiving Day usually means parades, football and the smell of turkey in the oven. But in Hamilton, many families start the day lacing up for the annual Turkey Trot. This beloved 5K and 10K starts and ends in Marcum Park, blending fun with community spirit while raising support for two nonprofits.
What began 14 years ago in Race Director Katie Powers’ driveway with 30 runners has grown into an event that now draws more than 3,000 participants—including locals, visitors and runners joining virtually from as far away as India and Hong Kong.
“We started with a card table, a coffee pot and a few friends,” shares Powers. “Now, it’s become something the entire community looks forward to.”
The race offers something for everyone—serious competitors chasing a personal best, families with strollers and kids decked out in turkey hats. Costumes, music and laughter add to the fun, turning race day into a festival more than a competition.
This year, wheelchair athletes make the race more inclusive than ever. Hamilton’s mayor is a regular participant, and highlights include an 80-year-old runner alongside a three-time women’s champion returning to defend her title.
Behind the festive atmosphere lies a deeper purpose. From that first race that raised $100 for charity, the Turkey Trot has now poured over $300K back into the community—not including this year’s entry fees. Each dollar helps fuel two organizations close to the event’s heart: YoungLives, which provides mentoring and meals for adolescent parents, and Capernaum, which connects teens and young adults with disabilities to “buddies” who walk beside them in life.
“It’s not just about the miles we run,” adds Communications Coordinator Debbie Sweitzer. “It’s about creating space where young moms and teens with disabilities know they’re valued and supported.”
The Turkey Trot holds personal meaning for Sweitzer too. After facing breast cancer, she says helping to grow the race gave her a sense of purpose and connection.
“It was a way to pour my energy into something bigger than myself,” she reflects.
This year’s race takes place Thursday, November 27, with the Kids’ Fun Run at 8:20 a.m., the YoungLives honor run at 8:30 a.m., the 10K at 8:40 a.m. and the 5K at 9 a.m. An after-party will follow.
Registration is now open online. Early pricing is $35 for the 5K and $50 for the 10K, which includes a medal and shirt. Prices increase after November 5. Last minute registrations are welcome: runners can sign up in person at the Expo on November 22, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. or on race day via QR code. Results and free photos are posted on the website.
Sweitzer shares the Turkey Trot’s simple but powerful tagline: “Run local, support local.”
“We’re hopeful participants will learn about our mission, get involved and shift the perspective on two demographics that can feel isolated—just help them find their people,” she explains.
Whether you’re running, walking or cheering from the sidelines, the Hamilton Turkey Trot is a chance to start Thanksgiving with gratitude and community. For details on packet pickup, volunteering or becoming a sponsor, visit the website or follow @HamiltonTurkeyTrot on Instagram and Facebook. HamiltonTurkeyTrot.com