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 run for a great cause! We collected the best family-friendly turkey trots happening in the Chicago area.
Turkey Trots at Rainey Park
When: Nov. 16
Where: Chicago (Scottsdale/Greater Ashburn)
Cost: $5
Gobble, gobble. Participate in a 1-mile race for ages 6 and up, all skill levels. Registration starts at 8 a.m. and race starts at 9 a.m.
Edison Park Turkey Trot
When: Nov. 28
Where: Edison Park
Cost: Up to $30
This 5K run has been around in this Chicago neighborhood for more than 20 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. 28
Where: Chicago (Lincoln Park)
Cost: Up to $45
Older kids won’t feel left out with the Youth 5K that includes their own participant shirt and Youth 5K finisher medal. Plus, participants ages 2-12 can run their little heart out in the Plymouth Rock Ramble. Families will enjoy the Turkey Day Tailgate before and after the race with treats and kid-friendly activities.
North Shore Turkey Trot
When: Nov. 28
Where: Highland Park
Cost: Up to $64
Need an incentive to sign up for a turkey trot? Run in the North Shore for the sweetest treat waiting for you at the finish line—a mini apple or pumpkin pie. Now that’s enough motivation for you to race the 5K or 10K!
Glen Ellyn Turkey Trot
When: Nov. 28
Where: Glen Ellyn
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. 30
Where: Chicago (Beverly)
Cost: Up to $75
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. Tip: Families can sign up 3-4 participants for a total of $75.
Grant Park Turkey Trot
When: Nov. 30
Where: Chicago (Downtown)
Cost: Up to $60
Run along the Chicago Lakefront Trail the Saturday after Thanksgiving. You’ll catch breathtaking views of fall foliage in Grant Park and along Lake Michigan. And since you’re burning some calories, you won’t feel guilty treating yourself to a cinnamon roll and hot cider at the finish line. Yum!
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