For some in the Upstate, Thanksgiving Day starts with an early morning wake-up followed by a long run in a turkey costume. And it’s not too late to join in the fun.
Turkey Day marathons, also called turkey trots, are a popular holiday tradition with a surprisingly long history. YMCA Buffalo Niagara claims the first turkey trot, which has been held annually since 1896.
Some of the Upstate’s oldest Thanksgiving marathons date back about 20 years and are beloved traditions for their participants, who get a healthy start to their day while helping the nonprofits the races benefit.
Here are three Upstate races to check out this Thanksgiving:
Electric City Gobbler 5k in Anderson
The Electric City Gobbler 5K has been held annually in Anderson since 2004, first by the Electric City Running Club and starting in 2013 by First Flight Alliance.
The 5K race takes place on Thanksgiving Day at 8:30 a.m., starting on E. North Avenue by the Anderson Mall and passing by Whitehall Elementary School and the Anderson Sports & Entertainment Complex before ending at the mall. The group is also holding a 1-mile fun run this year, which will take place inside the mall. Certificates and prizes will be awarded to race winners.