In Buffalo, New York, 1896, the first ever 8K Thanksgiving race was held with six participants, four of whom crossed the finish line. Ever since then, the infamous Turkey Trot has increased in popularity all over America and has become a family event for many. Specifically, the Buffalo race has reached up to 14,000 participants making it the fourth largest Turkey Trot in the country! Some folks even come from other countries such as Ireland, the U.K., and Australia to partake. Since the 1980s, people have been wearing turkey costumes or other holiday themed outfits while they run in order to spread the holiday cheer.
While some individuals run (or walk) for health reasons, such as improving cardiovascular health, others run to give back to the community. For example, the “PHLY Turkey Trot to Benefit Face to Face” is being held on Thursday Nov. 27, 2025, to raise money and awareness for the organization that is “dedicated to the health, well-being, and stability of our community.” Face to Face started cooking hot meals for their Germantown neighbors in 1984, but since then, have created other services to help those in need. If you are in the Germantown area or close by, you may be interested in supporting this organization and participating in the PHLY Turkey Trot!
If you are unable to attend a specific run, virtual runs have become popular as well for those who prefer to run on their own time or on their own paths. Organizations such as the “Gobble ‘n’ Go” host virtual runs where you can log your distance to compare with other participants. The fun thing about this run in particular is that you have anywhere between Nov. 14 through Dec. 30 to complete your run. This way it can be accessible to many people who may not be able to participate at a specific place and time.
If you are in the Philadelphia area, here are a few 2025 Turkey Trots you should check out! And if these don’t work for you, I encourage you to use some of these resources or check social media to find a race that is close to you and organization you are interested in supporting.
The YMCA Gobble Wobble run is held in multiple locations including Philadelphia, Havertown, Abington, and Royersford. There is even a virtual race that can be completed from the 27th of November through the 30th. Donations from this event support the YMCA.
Near the Chestnut Hill and Germantown area, they host a five-mile run or one mile walk in person and virtually. This family friendly event is held rain or shine, and you may run with a stroller or your pet. This event supports the Face to Face organization which provides hot meals and other social services to those in need.
Held at Delaware Valley University, this event includes a 10K, 5K, a two-mile reindeer run or walk, and even a “Li’l Elves” run for kids. Taking place on November 30th, there will be a DJ, hot chocolate, and awards for various costumes. Donations from this event will go to the Bucks County Opportunity Council which aim to serve low-income residents of Bucks County.
Located in Glen Mills, this Turkey Trot includes a 5K and one mile race with cash prizes for the top 3 overall male and female finishers! They are even accepting day-of registrations until 9AM, so you do not have to worry about signing up in advance. All benefits go to the Healthy Kids Running Series whose mission is to inspire kids to live an active and healthy lifestyle.
Located in Wallingford, this run is held at the Nether Providence Elementary School. There is a 5K road race for both runners and walkers, and a one mile “Little Drumstick Run” designed specifically for younger participants. All of the proceeds from this event go directly to support the students at Nether Providence Elementary School.
As this is the season of giving, if you want to raise money for a charity that speaks to you, you could start a GoFundMe (or use another trusted source) to collect donations for a charity of your choice. I hope this inspires you to participate in a Turkey Trot near you, virtually, or even to start your own Turkey Trot with friends or family! Even if you are not an experienced runner, a Turkey Trot may be a comfortable place to start or even just a fun way to get outside and walk or run before the big dinner.