‘Turkey Trots’ and other Thanksgiving races have become a staple of the holiday, as a way for families to burn a few extra calories before indulging on a feast later in the day. However, the runs can also go towards helping those in need and raising money for charitable causes. Below you can find some of the many Thanksgiving day races that will be taking place in the Meadowlands region and surrounding areas.
Jersey City’s Turkey Day 5k & 1 Mile Fun Run
Jersey City’s Turkey Trot 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run are back once again, offering runners a scenic view of lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and more, as they take on the challenge. All runners will be professionally timed and age ranked by age groups. Additionally, there will be free professional photos for runners, giveaways from sponsors and music on the course.
The races will start at 20 Hudson St, Jersey City, NJ 07032, with the fun run starting at 9 a.m. The 5k, however, will be starting at 10 a.m.
City Challenge Youth Foundation, a group that has helped sponsor hundreds of children to take part in various activities, including the fun run and 5k, set a donation goal of $500 for this year’s runs. Through the help of several donors, the Foundation was able to raise $960 and counting, highlighting the benefits that come from these kinds of races.
“We strongly believe every kid deserves the opportunity to benefit from the many benefits an active & healthy lifestyle offers,” said Elvi Guzman, President at City Challenge Youth Foundation. With the help of Jersey City’s Turkey Day 5k and Fun Run, the organization is able to help make this goal a reality.
Racefaster Thanksgiving Day Run at Glen Rock
Join your family, friends and neighbors for a turkey trot 5k that takes runners through the streets of Glen Rock, NJ. In addition, there will also be a Kids fun run slightly under a mile, for children to enjoy. The race will start at 9:45 a.m. and all finishers will receive a medal to highlight their accomplishment.
The 5k will begin at 9 a.m., starting and ending at the Glen Rock Pool at 390 Doremus Ave, Glen Rock, NJ. All pre-registered participants will be rewarded with a T-shirt for both the 5k and fun run. Medals will be awarded for finishers in 5 year age categories, as well as overall times, each being separated by gender.
Leonia Turkey Trot 2024
The Leonia Turkey Trot offers a fun time for all ages, with a 5k run at 8 a.m. to kick off the festivities and a 1-mile race at 9 a.m. Check-in for the races begin at 7 a.m. and the race will be held at 370 Broad Ave, Leonia, NJ 07605.