A New Thanksgiving Tradition: Orlando Turkey Trots 2024
Whether it’s a secret family recipe passed down from generation to generation, curling up with a cup of coffee to enjoy the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, or the simple act of watching your favorite football team win (or lose) year after year, Thanksgiving is a time to be grateful for traditions and the people who have helped us shape them.
For some families, kicking off the day with a little Thanksgiving-themed physical activity is the perfect way to celebrate.
What is a Turkey Trot?
Turkey Trots are typically 5k or 10k races held on Thanksgiving Day that are designed for the whole family to enjoy.
They often involve dressing up in fun costumes and supporting a local charity. It’s also a great way to get a little fresh air and exercise before indulging in a holiday feast. lLife is all about balance after all.
The first ever Turkey Trot took place in Buffalo, New York in 1896. The 8k cross-country race, hosted by the Buffalo YMCA, only included 6 participants, and only 4 actually crossed the finish line.
This year, the Buffalo YMCA Turkey Trot is celebrating its 129th annual race, and it caps at 14,000 participants every year.
Around the country, the popularity of Turkey Trots continues to grow and grow. In 2015, Thanksgiving became the most popular day to run a race, overthrowing the Fourth of July. There’s something to be said for dressing up with your family and friends and starting your day with some playful exercise – plus, it keeps everyone out of the kitchen at home!
Turkey Trots in Orlando
If you’re going to be in Central Florida this Thanksgiving, here are a few local Orlando Turkey Trots that you can check out to start your day at the finish line.
Seniors First Turkey Trot 5k
Thursday, November 28, 8:00 a.m.
227 N. Eola Dr., Orlando, FL 32801
$35 - $50 for adults, $25 for 17 and under, 65 and over
This year marks the 35th annual Track Shack Seniors First Turkey Trot in downtown Orlando.
The Lake Eola race draws a crowd of over 4,000 people every year as they raise money for Meals on Wheels and other programs that support Orlando seniors.
This playful race includes a costume contest, so you’ll see a lot of other runners dressed to the nines in Thanksgiving-themed apparel. There’s also a Turkey Call contest for those who have mastered an authentic “gobble.” Following the 5k, there are free Tot Trot races for kids of all ages.
The Seniors First Turkey Trot is a festive, non-competitive and non-scored event. Every 5k participant receives a commemorative t-shirt and a fun finisher medal.
Sanford Turkey Day 5k
Thursday, November 28, 8:00 a.m.
600 E. 1st Street, Sanford, FL 32771
$35 - $45 for 15 and over, $30 - $45 for 14 and under and 60+
If the idea of waking up early on Thanksgiving morning and running a 5k doesn’t intrigue you, perhaps the idea of free Starbucks coffee, hot chocolate, and donuts will.
The 15th Annual Turkey Day 5k in Sanford is Seminole County’s largest Thanksgiving Day fun run. Whether you’re trying to set a personal record, planning on strolling with your stroller, or just looking to burn a few extra calories before your Thanksgiving feast, everyone is welcome to participate.
There will be a costume contest with a $100 Visa gift card prize for the most unique Thanksgiving Day costume. Finalists are selected by judges, but crowd applause will determine the winner.
There will be awards for overall male and female winners, as well as top three in a variety of age groups. Every participant will receive a finisher medal and a T-shirt.
This year, the event is benefiting The Sharing Center, an organization that provides individuals and families with dignified solutions for anyone facing hunger, homelessness, and hardships. Runners are encouraged to bring non-perishable food and any used running shoes to donate to The Sharing Center.
Florida Turkey Trot at Oviedo Mall
Thursday, November 28, 8:00 a.m.
Oviedo Mall Food Court, Oviedo Mall Blvd., Oviedo, FL 32765
$30 for 18 and older, $28 for under 18
The Florida Turkey Trot at Oviedo Mall is another popular Orlando Thanksgiving Day race.
With over 1500 participants, this race is all about the joy of health and community. It’s a stroller-friendly and dog-friendly race, so everyone in the family can be a part of your traditional Turkey Trot!
Everyone who finishes the race will receive a finisher medal and a T-shirt to mark their achievement, and custom awards will be given for those who excel in their age groups.
The Florida Turkey Trot also has a Youth 5k for those 18 and under, as well as a 100-meter Kiddie Run that is free to the first 75 registrants (and only $5 for everyone who registers after).
Avalon Park 5k Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 28, 8:00 a.m.
Avalon Park Town Park
$25 for adults, $15 for kids
Every year, the quiet neighborhood of Avalon Park hosts a Turkey Trot that winds through the quaint downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods.
This year, the Avalon Park Turkey Trot is raising money to support programs and services that provide aid for underprivileged individuals and families in the East Orlando area.
T-shirts are available for an additional $20, and must be ordered by November 10.
Enjoy a lovely morning race in a beautiful area with friends and family knowing you're supporting a great cause.
Make a Rosen Inn Your Home Away from Home for the Holiday
If you’re traveling this Thanksgiving, we’d love to help you uphold your holiday traditions and make new ones, too.
Our convenient location, friendly staff, and comfortable, budget-friendly accommodations make us the perfect place to celebrate the holidays.
Looking for a festive feast? We’ll be happy to host you at one of our incredible Rosen Hotels & Resorts Thanksgiving Day buffets.
Whether you plan to participate in one of our entertaining Orlando Turkey Trots or sleep in and watch the parade from your cozy bed, Rosen Inns are a wonderful destination for your holiday travels.