Turkey Trots are a great way to work up an appetite before the big Thanksgiving meal. We’ve rounded up nine NoVA races to get you and your family off the couch and burning some holiday calories.
Herndon Turkey Trot 5K
November 22, 4 p.m.
Tick the turkey trot off your list well before Thanksgiving. This community race welcomes runners ages 4 and up. The first 400 to preregister get a long-sleeve race T-shirt, and runners age 21+ will receive a token for a beer from Aslin Beer Company to redeem after the race. Prizes will be awarded to first- and second-place finishers in multiple age groups. Plus, the overall male and female winners receive a turkey and all the trimmings. 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon; $40 preregistration for 21 and older, $45 on race day; $25 for 20 and younger, $30 on race day
Alexandria Turkey Trot
November 27, 9 a.m.
This race through the heart of the Del Ray community is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Kids, strollers, and pets are welcome, as are walkers and participants of all ability levels. The first-, second-, and third-place overall male and female finishers plus the first-place male and female masters finishers will split $2,000 in prize money. Runners are asked to bring two nonperishable food items on race day to support the nonprofit ALIVE! Online registration is open until 6 a.m. on race day. 1005 Mt Vernon Ave., Alexandria, $30; $25 for age 13 to 20; $15 for children under 13
Arlington Turkey Trot
November 27, 8 a.m.
The Arlington Turkey Trot is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Over its two decades, the event has raised more than $1 million to those in need and provided access to food, childcare, and community services for nearly two decades. Join residents on a brisk 5K through Lyon Park and Ashton Heights. Registration ends November 27. 3020 N. Pershing Dr., Arlington; $50 for 18 and older; $25 for kids ages 6 to 17; free for children 5 and under
Virginia Run Turkey Trot
November 27, 8 a.m.
This Centreville turkey trot is a 34-year tradition that the entire family will love. It includes a 5K race and a 3K walk, and proceeds benefit the American Boy Project, a Centreville-based nonprofit that supports individuals who struggle with addiction and their families. 15355 Wetherburn Ct., Centreville, $50 for 5K, $5 for 3K
Lansdowne Turkey Trot
November 27, 8 a.m.
This year’s 5K race benefits Loudoun’s Beat the Odds scholarship program, which recognizes and rewards the achievement and success of Loudoun students who have overcome significant life obstacles. The top three overall male and female finishers receive gift card prizes. The event also includes a 1K and a virtual race option. 43459 Riverpoint Dr., Lansdowne, $25 for 5K, $15 for 1K
Gobble Wobble 5K
November 27, 8 a.m.
Go at your own pace on this hilly 5K fun run through Woodbridge. Mini wobblers can also participate in the 50-yard Diaper Dash and the 100-yard Tot Trot. Whatever race you choose, every participant walks away with a finisher medal. Same-day registration is available, but runners must register by November 12 to be guaranteed a race shirt. 12400 Knightsbridge Dr., Woodbridge, $35 for 5K, $20 for Diaper Dash, $20 for Tot Trot
City of Fairfax Turkey Trot 5K
November 27, 9 a.m.
Take on the streets of Fairfax City at this 5K. The top three male and female finishers will receive an award, and all race donations and proceeds go to the Fairfax Fire Department Benevolent Fund. Registration must be completed online and is open until race day. 4081 University Dr., Fairfax, $40 before November 14, then $45
Fairfax Turkey Trot 4 Miler
November 27, 9 a.m.
The 13th running of this annual 4-mile course takes you through Mantua in Fairfax County. All participants receive a souvenir race shirt with registration, and proceeds benefit Britepaths, a Fairfax-based nonprofit that assists families in crisis. 9330 Pentland Pl., Fairfax, $40
Winery at Bull Run Turkey Trot 5K & 10K
November 26, 2 p.m.
This scenic race takes runners along Manassas National Battlefield trails. Runners receive a glass of wine from the Winery at Bull Run, a finisher medal, and a technical-material event shirt. The top three men and women finishers will receive awards, and there’s also a virtual race option for those why can’t make it on race day. 5950 Lee Hwy., Centreville, $40 for the 5K, $55 for the 10K
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
