Thanksgiving on the Run: 8 Top Races to Travel For This Holiday

I don't know about you, but I look forward to savoring a delicious Thanksgiving meal with my family each year. It is a time to enjoy each other's company and to stuff our bellies without judgment or guilt.

That said, I was alarmed to discover how many calories come with that delicious holiday meal. According to the Calorie Control Council, the average person consumes over 3,000 calories during the celebratory Thanksgiving meal, not including other indulgences throughout the day.

No wonder many people participate in a traditional Thanksgiving Day race before sitting down to feast. If you enjoy running or want to start a healthier tradition, here are some of America's oldest and most unique Thanksgiving Day races.

The Manchester Road Race

Manchester, Connecticut, has a rich history in manufacturing textiles, earning it the nickname "Silk City." It also has an 88-year tradition of Thanksgiving Day races. The Manchester Road Race guides runners through the city on a 4.737-mile loop course. One of New England's oldest road races includes a spaghetti dinner the night before.

Buffalo's YMCA Turkey Trot

Established in 1896, the YMCA Turkey Trot in Buffalo, New York, is the world's oldest consecutively run footrace. This year marks the 129th anniversary. The inaugural race comprised 6 runners, but the event accommodates 14,000 racers today. Many participants dress in costumes for the 8K event.

America's Trot for Hunger

The 5K run takes runners along the National Mall, the U.S. Capitol, and other iconic sites in Washington, DC. Now in its 23rd year, last year's event drew over 10,000 runners from 48 states and 11 countries. After the race, stay for a family-friendly festival on Freedom Plaza.

New Orleans Athletic Club's Turkey Day Race

Established in 1907, the New Orleans Athletic Club's Turkey Day Race is one of America's oldest, continuously held non-marathon races. The 5-mile race is a favorite holiday tradition for many families, some spanning multiple generations. Runners will appreciate City Park's mature trees and historic architecture.

Dana Point Turkey Trot

One of America's most scenic courses, the Dana Point Turkey Trot yields beach and harbor views in Orange County, California. The event, now in its 47th year, has a 5K run, a 10K event, and a 15K combo. There is even a 1-mile Gobble Wobble race for kids.

The Feaster Five Road Race

Now in its 37th year, the Feaster Five Road Race in Andover, Massachusetts, is the state's largest Thanksgiving Day road race. The family-friendly event includes a 5-mile race, a 5K run/walk, and a fun run for kids. While supplies last, Feaster Five finishers take home an apple pie.

Western & Southern Thanksgiving Day Race

Cincinnati, Ohio, welcomes runners to the 115th edition of its Thanksgiving Day Race. The event, one of America's oldest and largest 10K races, includes a 5K race and a short fun run for kids. Runners will dash along the Ohio River and through iconic sections of the Queen City. The run has become a cherished tradition for local families and travelers from far and wide.

Las Vegas Turkey Trot

Known for entertainment, it should be no surprise that Las Vegas hosts one of the country's most unique Thanksgiving Day races. Runners pass through six tunnels along a historic trail en route to Hoover Dam for an unforgettable experience. Participants can choose from distances of 1 mile, 5 kilometers, 12 kilometers, and a half marathon. Each event features spectacular views of Lake Mead.

Start Your New Thanksgiving Tradition

Regardles of where and how you plan to celebrate Thanksgiving, I hope you enjoy the holiday. You may discover a fun race in or near your destination even if it did not make our turkey trot list.

There is still time to plan a trip and train for a walk or run. You could start a new tradition with your family. There is nothing quite like a feast after a run. Safe travels and happy feasting!