Turkey Trots for the Whole Family

Before you sit down to that delicious Thanksgiving meal, take the family out and trot like a turkey! Running is a sport everyone can participate in…it encourages health and fitness, and doesn’t require great skill or practice. There are many “Turkey Trots” across the state of New Jersey, all of which are family friendly. Check out one close to you and burn some calories before you add more.

CEA/Johanna Foods Turkey Trot, Flemington, NJ
CEA is the Center for Educational Advancement, the sponsor for this annual Thanksgiving Day 5K and 2K walk. Join the over 1000 participants to help CEA provide employment, jobs, and social skill training for people with severe disabilities. The course is flat and well-marked….many dress in their best holiday themed hats, costumes, etc. Registration is $30 online on the CEA website.  This one is a hoot….we do it every year!

Westfield Turkey Trot, Westfield, NJ
Tamaques Park is the scene for this post-holiday 5K and 1 mile run on 11/24. New for this year will be a “Costume Crawl”, where runners/walkers can wear their Thanksgiving finest. Also being offered are refreshments and face painting for the kids. Register online by 11/22. Fees begin at $12 for the walk, and $23 for the run.

Krogh’s Turkey Trot, Sparta, NJ
Sparta’s Turkey Trot takes place on Thanksgiving Day at beautiful Lake Mohawk. Events beside the 5K include a 1 mile run/walk and optional pasta party the night before the races. The $23 registration fee benefits the Sparta Educational Foundation and Sparta Public Schools. Register online or by mail by 11/18.

2012 Trinity Turkey Trot, Princeton, NJ
Bring a non-perishable (healthy) food item to this year’s 5th Annual Trinity Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day. Register by 11/15 for $30 before the fees increase. This year’s beneficiaries are the Crisis Ministry of Princeton and Trenton, Urban Promise, and Housing Initiatives of Princeton. The run begins at 8:30.

17th Annual Somerset Turkey Trot, Somerset NJ
Somerset County Parks sponsors this race, which takes place on 11/17. There is a 5K which begins at 9:30; the 1 mile run begins at 9. Registration is only $20 by 11/9.