When most people think of Thanksgiving morning, they picture pajamas and the smell of roasting turkey. But for thousands in Fredericksburg, the holiday starts with sneakers, spandex, and a sprint through downtown. The Turkey Trot has become as much a part of Thanksgiving as cranberry sauce, and this Virginia town has been perfecting the tradition for more than three decades.
Where It All Started
The very first Turkey Trot took place way back in 1896 in Buffalo, New York, when the local YMCA decided to host an 8K race on Thanksgiving morning. Only six people showed up, and just four made it to the finish line. Fast forward to today, and that same Buffalo race caps out at 14,000 participants every single year. Talk about growth spurts.
Fredericksburg caught the running bug in 1992 when the Rappahannock Area YMCA launched its own Turkey Trot. What started as a simple community race has transformed into the 33rd annual event that brings together runners, walkers, and even the tiniest tot trotters for a morning of movement before the big meal.
Families Who Make It a Yearly Thing
Some families have turkey recipes passed down through generations. Others have Turkey Trot photos filling up their albums. The beauty of this race is watching the same faces show up year after year, only now the kids who rode in strollers are pushing their own.
The Fredericksburg event welcomes everyone from serious runners chasing personal records to parents with toddlers in tow. The 5K run and walk suits most fitness levels, while the 1-mile youth race gives younger participants their moment to shine. For the littlest family members, there’s even a Tot Trot for children five and under, making it genuinely possible for three generations to participate together.
And yes, costumes are absolutely encouraged. The 2022 race featured a 90s throwback theme, complete with a brand new turkey mascot that became an instant hit with kids. Because nothing says “I’m thankful” quite like running in neon windbreakers and scrunchies.
The Good It Does
Beyond the fun and fitness, Turkey Trots pack a serious charitable punch. The Rappahannock Area YMCA Turkey Trot funnels proceeds into vital YMCA programs that support youth development, community health, and services for vulnerable residents.
The 2022 race took giving even further by splitting $3 from every registration among five local organizations: Ainsley’s Angels, Hope House, Thurman Brisben, Fairy Godmother Project, and Micah Ministries. That means every stride through historic downtown Fredericksburg helps fund programs that strengthen the entire community.
Other Turkey Trots across the country follow similar models. The FredVegas Turkey Trot, held at Old Mill Park along the scenic Rappahannock River, supports the Old Dominion Humane Society, proving that these races help both people and pets in need.
Stories Worth Telling
Every Turkey Trot has its share of memorable moments. In Fredericksburg, the debut of the turkey mascot became an instant tradition. Runners have crossed finish lines dressed as pilgrims, actual turkeys, and just about every 90s sitcom character you can imagine.
Nationally, Turkey Trots have produced some wild tales. One runner set a world record for the fastest time while dressed as a turkey at the Berbee Derby in Wisconsin. And in 2024, a group of runners in Watertown, New York literally got run over by a herd of deer that charged through the pack right after the starting gun.
The tradition keeps growing because it captures something special: the chance to move your body, see your neighbors, and do something good before diving into pie. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just trying to justify that second helping of stuffing, the Turkey Trot welcomes you with open arms and a finisher medal waiting at the end.
Sources: family-ymca.org, bishopsevents.com, olddominionhumanesociety.org
Header Image Source: family-ymca.org
