Hey Turkey, Let’s Trot!

Four people in chicken costumes run in a street race at sunset, surrounded by spectators and other runners.

According to the Calorie Control Council, Americans take in an average of 3,000-4,500 calories during their Thanksgiving dinner. That’s… a lot. Especially when the average adult only needs about 2,000-2,500 calories per day depending on their activity level. It might be easy to justify a big meal by reminding yourself that Thanksgiving is a day to celebrate, and this level of calorie consumption isn’t your normal. Plus, it’s okay to indulge every once and while. And you’re not wrong. But one easy to combat calorie consumption this holiday season is to increase your activity level to offset an increased calorie intake. Walking before or after a meal, doing a light workout you find on YouTube or playing football in the front yard with family are all great ways to increase calorie burn. Another great option is to sign up for a Turkey Trot this Thanksgiving! Not only are these races fun, they usually aren’t very competitive. Runners usually come sporting silly costumes and hats, ready for a good time, with dogs and kids often in tow. You might even get a cute shirt out of it! Get ready for a hearty Thanksgiving meal by working for it. Sign up for one of these fun Turkey Trots in the Dallas/Fort Worth area so you can wobble before you gobble this Turkey Day.

Turkey Trots in the DFW area 2025

  • Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot. November 27, the first race starts at 8:25 am. This is truly an event the whole family can enjoy. Choose between a 5K and an 8 mile run, bring your dog if you have one, and get ready for a big party at the finish line. Plus, the money paid to run in the race benefits the Dallas YMCA, which provides fantastic programming for the community. Everybody wins. 
  • Fort Worth YMCA Turkey Trot. November 27, the first race starts at 7:45 am. Run through your favorite parts of downtown Fort Worth on this family-friendly course. Dogs and strollers are welcome and costumes are encouraged. The Fort Worth Turkey Trot started in 1981 and celebrates 44 years in 2025. The race expects to see more than 10,000 participants this year. Now that’s worth celebrating! 
  • Scheels North Texas Turkey Trot 2025. November 27, the first race starts at 7:55 am. Runners at this fun event, which includes a one-mile fun run as well as a 5K and a 10K, get a fun t-shirt and post-race refreshments, and all of the proceeds from this race benefit the Miracle League of Frisco. This event is family friendly, so bring the whole crew out to downtown Frisco to get in some steps before you settle down to eat. 
  • Irving Turkey Trot. November 27, the first race starts at 9 am. Join thousands of runners at the Toyota Music Factory as they lace up and get ready to log some miles before the big feast. Participants can choose between the 5K and the 8 mile run and enjoy the scenery around the Las Colinas Urban Center. This race is family-friendly and dressing like a turkey is definitely acceptable.
  • Arlington Turkey Trot. November 27, the first race starts at 8 am. Spend your morning running around some of North Texas’ most iconic landmarks, including AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Field and Choctaw Stadium. Proceeds from the race will directly benefit Arlington-based charities, who will support important missions both locally and globally.

Have a great run!

North Texas lodging

The Vineyards Campgrounds & Cabins is the perfect spot to call home while you enjoy a getaway to Dallas/Fort Worth. Conveniently located in Grapevine, The Vineyards offers premiere camping on Lake Grapevine. Choose between staying in your own RV or renting a cozy cabin and soaking up the ambiance of the area. Your stay will be so relaxing and refreshing you won’t want to leave. Happy trails!