Turkey Trot Roundup: Here’s Where to Run Before Thanksgiving Dinner

As it turns out, you can run (literally!) from all those calories you’re about to consume during your Thanksgiving holiday dinners.

On Thursday, Nov. 22, there are several turkey-themed races around the area. Before you start gobbling, here’s a look at the 5Ks happening around the region.

Cranberry Turkey Chase 5K

Join the Seneca Valley Cross Country Boosters at Graham Park Thursday, Nov. 22 for the First Annual Cranberry Turkey Chase 5K. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and the race is at 9 a.m. The cost is $20 if you preregister and $25 on race day. Register online at www.senecavalleycc.com or stop by Mojo Running & Multisport on Route 228 in Seven Fields.

Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot

The Flood family will host its seventh annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day in Zelienople. Participants are asked to meet at 8 a.m. at the Connoquenessing Valley Elementary School, 300 South Pittsburgh Street, Zelienople, before setting off for the 3-mile jog or 1-mile walk.

There also will be a light breakfast in the parking lot. The event benefits Project Hope of Zelienople, a nonprofit aiding families of hospitalized children.

Donations needed for the nonprofit are mouthwash, dental floss, hairspray, hairbrushes and nail kits, according to Alicia Flood. Families, pets, strollers, school classes and sports teams are welcome at this event.

22nd Annual PNC YMCA Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot

The event at PNC Park on Pittsburgh’s North Shore features three races, including a 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk, 5K and a 5-mile race.

The 1-Mile begins at 8:30 a.m., the 5-Mile at 9 a.m. and the 5K kicks off at 9:03 on Federal Street.

Registration for the event still is available at the PNC YMCA, located at 236 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh. Participants also may register on the race day, but the 5-mile run may be sold out, according to event organizers.

The cost is $15 to $35 if you register at the event, depending on the race entered.

Planning your own Turkey Bowl on Thursday?

It’s worth noting most of Cranberry’s fields are closed, including at North Boundary Park, Graham Park, and Community Park. Anyone playing on a closed athletic field is subject to citation and a fine equal to the cost of repairs—which can reach into the thousands of dollars for damage from a single game, according to Cranberry Township.

The exception is the Lindner Practice Field in Community Park, near the Rotary Dog Park, which will remain open and available for play throughout the year.

Show Off Your Turkey Photos

Whether you’re running in a race or playing in bowl, we want to hear from you. Upload your turkey photos to this article by clicking the “Upload Photos and Video” button near the top of the page.