A Short History of the Turkey Trot

You Should Know: The oldest continuous footrace in North America isn’t the marathon, the half-marathon, or even the 10K. It’s the turkey trot, a holiday-season tradition that you either partake in or are vehemently annoyed by. As millions across America today gear up for a holiday 5K — adorned in autumn-themed costumes, no less — let’s take a look at the history of Thanksgiving’s healthier counterpart. 

Going Deeper: The turkey trot dates back to 1896, when the first Thanksgiving Day race was held in Buffalo, New York. A whole six people participated in the 8K run on dirt roads. That same race has been held every year since then without fail, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, tens of thousands of people run the original turkey trot route annually. 

Takeaway: It’s not just the inaugural turkey trot that has gained unimaginable steam. The entire concept has taken off in recent years, with RunSignup reporting that all 50 U.S. states host at least one turkey trot race, with more than 450,000 participants registered for one this year. The way we see it: Turkey trots bring people together in a different, but just as wonderful, way as a Thanksgiving meal.