Every fall, thousands of people across America lace up their sneakers, pull on turkey costumes, and hit the pavement for one of the country’s most beloved traditions. In Livonia, Michigan, the Healthy Livonia Turkey Trot brings together families, fitness fans, and folks who just want to burn a few calories before the big feast. This annual 5K fun run and walk isn’t just about getting some exercise. It’s about coming together as a community, helping neighbors in need, and creating memories that last long after the pumpkin pie is gone.
How It All Started
The Turkey Trot tradition goes way back to 1896 in Buffalo, New York, when the local YMCA decided to host an 8K race on Thanksgiving Day. Only six brave souls showed up, and just four of them made it to the finish line. Not exactly a huge turnout, but those runners started something special. The race came back the next year and has been going strong ever since, making it the oldest race in North America. That’s even older than the Boston Marathon, which didn’t start until 1897. More cities joined in over the years, and by the 1980s, participants started wearing costumes, turning these races into festive celebrations.
Livonia’s Take on Tradition
The Healthy Livonia Turkey Trot happens each November at Bicentennial Park, where runners and walkers of all ages tackle a 5K course that winds down Wayne Road from Seven Mile to Six Mile Road, then loops west to Levan before heading back north. What makes Livonia’s event stand out is its commitment to keeping things fun and accessible. There’s no official timing, no bibs, and no fancy awards. The focus here is simple: bring your family, bring your friends, and enjoy the morning together.
Running for a Reason
While burning calories before turkey dinner is a nice bonus, the Healthy Livonia Turkey Trot does something even more important. All proceeds and canned food donations go straight to the Livonia Goodfellows, an organization that provides Christmas dinners to local families who need a little extra help during the holidays. Participants who bring canned goods get entered into a raffle for prizes donated by local businesses, making it easy to give back while having fun. This charity focus reflects a nationwide trend. In 2023, Turkey Trots across the country raised more than $1.9 million for various causes. When you run in Livonia, you’re not just moving your feet. You’re making a real difference in your community.
Families Who Run Together
Turkey Trots have become a multigenerational tradition for countless families who return year after year. Parents who ran the race as young adults now bring their own kids, creating a chain of memories that spans decades. In Livonia, the atmosphere is welcoming for everyone, whether you’re a serious runner trying to set a personal record or a parent pushing a stroller at a leisurely pace. The event draws people of all fitness levels because it celebrates participation over competition. Some families make it their official Thanksgiving morning ritual, complete with matching costumes and photos at the finish line.
The Fun Stuff
Speaking of costumes, Turkey Trots are famous for their creative outfits. You’ll spot giant turkey hats, pilgrim gear, and even full turkey costumes bouncing down the course. Some runners go all out with coordinated family themes, while others just throw on a festive headband and call it good. The Healthy Livonia Turkey Trot keeps the spirit light and fun, encouraging participants to dress up and enjoy themselves. Early registration gets you a t-shirt you can pick up before race day, adding to your collection of Turkey Trot memories. And if you forget to register early, you can still sign up on site at Bicentennial Park, as long as you bring exact change or a check.
Part of Something Bigger
Thanksgiving has become the biggest running day of the year in America, with nearly 1 million participants registered across the country in recent years. The Livonia event connects residents to this nationwide movement, proving that small communities can make big impacts. Whether you’re a regular runner or someone who only exercises once a year on Turkey Trot morning, showing up matters. The race brings together people who might not otherwise cross paths, building connections that strengthen the whole community. So when November rolls around, set your alarm, grab your running shoes, and join your neighbors for a tradition that celebrates fitness, family, and giving back.
Sources: livonia.gov, livoniagoodfellows.org, info.runsignup.com
Header Image Source: Miguel A Amutio on Unsplash
