Maybe participating in a turkey trot on Thanksgiving morning is a family tradition or maybe it is something that you’ve been wanting to try. Turkey trots have almost become as much a part of Thanksgiving as eating turkey has. You might be surprised to hear that the first turkey trot dates back to 1896. If you’ve never participated in one before, maybe 2019 is your year!

Here is a list of turkey trots happening in our area:
- The Stuffed Turkey Run– 5k/10k and kid’s run, Westminster Promenade, November 30th. The perfect run for those hosting on Thanksgiving morning. It’s challenging enough to find the time to prepare, cook & clean everything before guests arrive… now you don’t have to! This SATURDAY race held two days AFTER Thanksgiving, is perfect for the whole family.
- Broomfield Turkey Day 5k/10k– Broomfield County Commons, November 28th, 9 am. Fun, family focused race with something for athletes of every level. Celebrate with unlimited pie at the expo.
- 10k Turkey Trek, 5k Turkey Trot & 2k Turkey Toddle– Ralston Creek Trail @ Long Lake Ranch Park in Arvada, November 23rd. This race is the Saturday BEFORE Thanksgiving and goes up the Ralston Creek Trail.
- Mile High United Way Turkey Trot– Wash Park, Denver, 10 am. This annual race draws over 10,000 people each year. Walk/run through Denver’s scenic Wash Park and support Mile High United Way’s work in the community.
Looking for a race in a different part of town? Find a turkey trot in the greater Denver here.
Think you don’t have enough time to plan for a 5k? Here is a training plan to get you 5k ready in only 3 weeks time! And keep in mind, all of these races are walker friendly also.

- This workout plan consists of 4 running workouts per week.
- Each workout lasts 30 minutes and consists of alternating periods of progressive running and walking.
- The end goal is to gradually increase your running tolerance up to 30 minutes- assuming a 10 minute/mile pace you should be able to complete a 3-mile/5k race in that time.
- During this training period, it’s important to listen to your body. If you do start to experience pain take some time off and give it adequate time to heal and recover.
Good luck and happy running!