2025 Turkey Trots in the Adirondacks
The ultimate guide to Thanksgiving-time 5Ks across the park.
Shake a tailfeather for Adirondack Thanksgiving Turkey Trots 2025. AI-generated illustration for editorial use.
Thanksgiving morning in the Adirondacks might conjure up visions of roasting turkeys, juggling family schedules, tracking down a missing pie, and half-watching the Macy’s Parade while someone yells about the gravy. But before the feast, before the football, before you politely pretend to like Aunt Linda’s “experimental” side dish… There is another tradition: the Adirondack Turkey Trot.
Yes, from Lake Placid to Glens Falls, Saranac Lake to Peru, early-rising trotter types will be lacing up their sneakers for the annual ritual of preemptive calorie accounting because nothing says “holiday spirit” quite like self-inflicted cardio at 8 a.m. in late November.
Turkey Trots: Over 125 years of sweating before stuffing.
The Turkey Trot may seem like a modern tradition, but its roots run deep—all the way back to 1896, when Buffalo, NY, hosted the first recorded Thanksgiving Day race. This long-standing history adds a unique charm to the event.
Everyone loves to strut their stuff on Thanksgiving.
Since then, America has kept the trot alive through blizzards, wars, recessions, and pandemics. It’s now the oldest continuously run footrace in North America, which means you’re essentially participating in living history… while dressed like a giant bird.
Thanksgiving is incomplete without a ridiculous costume.
In the Adirondacks, the Turkey Trot has evolved from a simple 5K into a full-blown community celebration. It's a place where serious runners, casual walkers, parents with strollers, and even those in unique costumes come together to celebrate.
Think turkey hats. Pilgrim bonnets. Family-themed shirts that say “I Run for Pie.” Dogs in drumstick costumes. It’s chaos, it’s festive, and it’s the only socially acceptable time of year to say, “Hang on, let me adjust my tail feathers.” The atmosphere is filled with laughter, joy, and a shared sense of fun, making it an event that everyone looks forward to each year.
Early morning cardio means sanctimonious stuffing smugness.
Some runners are out to burn pre-meal calories. Others simply like fresh air and avoiding kitchen duties (“So sorry I missed peeling the potatoes, the starting gun went off!”).
Many Adirondack Turkey Trots also support local food pantries, youth programs, and community organizations, making your morning miles doubly meaningful.
Plus, here’s a universal truth: Completing a 5K at dawn automatically earns you a guilt-free second helping of stuffing and a heroic nap later. It’s basically science.
Your annual chance to be your best Adirondack turkey self.
This time of year, Turkey Trots across the region are opening registration—from Saranac Lake’s Bitters & Bones Turkey Trot to events near Tupper Lake, Lowville, Bolton Landing, and beyond. Sign up early for maximum fundraising time and—let’s be honest—the coveted Turkey Trot T-shirt you’ll proudly wear until at least February.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a casual stroller, or firmly in the "I'm only here for the vibes” category, there’s a Thanksgiving 5K in the Adirondacks ready to kick off your holiday with cheer, community spirit, and questionable athletic fashion choices. The Adirondack Turkey Trot is for everyone, regardless of running experience or speed, making it truly inclusive.
Now get out there and trot like the majestic holiday bird you were meant to be.
Find a Turkey Trot near you.
Run or walk a 5K in Bolton Landing’s 2025 turkey trot near Lake George.
Join the 12th annual fun run celebrating the life of Erin Farkas Dewyea.
Earn those carbs and that third slice of pie in a month-long virtual showdown that culminates in a Thanksgiving Day race worthy of a turkey-trot-tastic celebration.
Take part in Adirondack Health’s 16th annual 5K race to benefit local charities.
Join a fun 5k run/walk to support the Open Door Mission and help fight poverty in the southern Adirondack community.
Participate in the 48th annual Lions Club John P. Adams Memorial Turkey Trot on Lake Champlain.
Lowville, on the western edge of the Adirondacks, hosts its annual no-fuss, no muss Turkey Trot filled with community spirit and camaraderie.
In the southern foothills of the Adirodacks in Washington County, Cambridge, NY, hosts its annual Turkey Trot.
Shop for unique Adirondack apparel, gifts and merchandise.
Looking for the best things to experience in the Adirondacks? Let ADK Taste be your guide.
More upcoming events in the Adirondacks.
Check out our events page for more ideas on fantastic activities in the ADK.
ADK Talks Podcast
Love the Adirondacks? You’ll love our podcast. We take listeners beyond the guidebooks and into the heart of the Adirondacks. We share stories from the people behind the best places to eat, shop, stay and explore in the ADK.
