We often forget that there’s more to Thanksgiving than eating turkey or watching football at home. Before you dive into those usual festivities, hit the pavement and join a turkey trot for a great cause.
A turkey trot is a fun run or walk — usually held on or around Thanksgiving morning — that brings together families, friends and communities before the big holiday feast. These events range from short fun runs to 5K or 10K races, often featuring festive costumes, music and charity tie-ins. Many turkey trots raise money for local food banks or nonprofits, making them a way to give back while getting a little exercise before the pumpkin pie.
We collected the best family-friendly turkey trots happening in the Chicago area.
Turkey Trot at Rainey Park
- When: Nov. 15, 2025
- Where: Rainey (Edward) Park, 4350 W. 79th St.
- Cost: $5
Gobble, gobble. Participate in a one-mile race for ages 6 and up, all skill levels. Registration starts at 8 a.m. and the race starts at 9 a.m.
Go Run Turkey Trot
- When: Nov. 15, 2025
- Where: 2741 W. Montrose Ave.Â
- Cost: Free
Runners can choose between a 5K and a one-mile race at Horner Park. This event is free, accessible and open to the public. Runners of all skill levels are welcome to join in the fun!
Edison Park Turkey Trot
- When: Nov. 27, 2025
- Where: Edison Park – Northwest Highway and Oshkosh, 6750 N Northwest Highway
- Cost: Up to $30Â
This 5K run has been around in this Chicago neighborhood for 29 years! Kids ages 3-10 can participate in the Gobble Gallop. This year, all proceeds will benefit the following charities: Chicago Police Memorial Foundation, Ignite the Spirit and Salute Inc.
Turkey Trot Chicago
- When: Nov. 27, 2025
- Where: Lincoln Park, Cannon Dr. at Fullerton Pkwy.Â
- Cost: Up to $55
The 47th annual Turkey Trot Chicago includes 5K and 8K races, as well as the Plymouth Rock Rumble, where kids ages 2-12 can run their little hearts out. Families will enjoy the Turkey Day Tailgate before and after the race with treats and kid-friendly activities.
North Shore Turkey Trot
- When: Nov. 27, 2025
- Where: Highland Park, St. Johns and Central avenues
- Cost: Up to $59
Need an incentive to sign up for a turkey trot? Run in the North Shore and celebrate with food, music and games after you cross the finish line! Now that’s enough motivation for you to race the 5K or 10K!
Glen Ellyn Turkey Trot
- When: Nov. 27, 2025
- Where: Lake Ellyn Park, 645 Lenox Road
- Cost: Free
Instead of racing to the finish line, the top two runners who guess their closest finish time win the race and a special Thanksgiving treat. Runners of all skills and ages have a chance to win!
Beverly Hills Turkey Trot 5K Run and Family Walk
- When: Nov. 29, 2025
- Where: North Beverly Neighborhood, 9200 S Hamilton.
- Cost: Up to $85
Run or walk through the tree-lined streets of the Beverly neighborhood. If you’re looking for a light exercise with the kids, consider the untimed 5K walk. Families can sign up three or four participants for a total of $85. Proceeds from the event go to 19th Ward Youth & Community Foundation and the John McNicholas Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation.
Chi Town Turkey Trot
- When: Nov. 27, 2025
- Where: 111 N Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable, Lake Shore Drive
- Cost: Up to $70
Run along the Chicago Lakefront Trail the Saturday after Thanksgiving. You’ll catch breathtaking views of fall foliage along Lake Michigan. And since you’re burning some calories, you won’t feel guilty treating yourself to a donut and hot cider at the finish line. Yum!
Follow Chicago Parent on Instagram.
