Turkey Trots 2022

There is no denying that the most anxiously anticipated part of Thanksgiving for many people is the food. But after a pre-feast sweat, seasonal dishes might be even more gratifying! Why not participate in a turkey trot or one of the other holiday fun runs in the metro Phoenix area to kick off your holiday?

For adults and children, these non-competitive runs span from short lengths up to 10K. At some events, prizes are given out along with delicious treats like cookies and hot chocolate.

Many Thanksgiving and holiday runs raise money for regional charities. To find out where the money from your run goes, visit its website. And most races offer fun swag for runners. You could go home with a T-shirt, medal or finisher’s certificate!

Arizona Road Racers Thanksgiving Day Classic: Thursday, Nov. 24. 1 mile, 5K and 10K. Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Ave. $15-$45. https://runsignup.com.

Gilbert Turkey Trot: Thursday, Nov. 24. 1 mile and 5K. SanTan Village, 2218 E.  Williams Field Road, Gilbert. $18.95-$24.95. https://runsignup.com.

Mesa Turkey Trot: Thursday, Nov. 24. 1 mile, 5K and 10K. Red Mountain Park, 7745 E. Brown Road, Mesa. $15-$30. https://www.mesaturkeytrot.com.

Phoenix Turkey Trot: Thursday, Nov. 24. 1 mile, 5K and 10K. Wesley Bolin Plaza, 1700 W. Washington St., Phoenix. $8-$50. https://www.phoenixturkeytrot.com.

Fat Turkey Trail Run: Saturday, Nov. 26. 5K and 10K. Linear Park in Tempe, just west of Tempe Town Lake Marina. $38-$79. http://www.aztrailrace.com.