Thanksgiving in Columbus isn’t just about turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie—it’s also about staying active and enjoying the holiday spirit! For many, the day starts with a brisk race, and Columbus and its surrounding areas offer various options for those looking to combine fitness with festive fun. Our Thanksgiving runs are the perfect way to kick off your holiday.
Columbus Turkey Trot (Upper Arlington)
5 miles // 2.6 mile walk // Kid's race
14 minutes from downtown
>> Register Now // $55
The Columbus Turkey Trot is a well-loved tradition offering a 5-mile or 2.6-mile race through Upper Arlington, all supporting the nonprofit Easterseals. This event also features a Kids Tot Trot for the youngest participants, making it a great family outing. This year, participants can look forward to the return of HOMAGE t-shirts and new food trucks serving delicious treats, adding extra excitement to the festive atmosphere.
Delaware Turkey Trot (Delaware)
3.1 miles (5k) // 2 miles // Kid's race
34 minutes from downtown
>> Register Now // $40 - $50
North of Columbus, the Delaware Turkey Trot offers a wonderful race option on Thanksgiving morning, benefiting the Autism Society of Central Ohio. This event features a roughly 3-mile course and a 2-mile walk. Participants will receive a complimentary bag, a t-shirt, a finisher’s medal, and a tasty dessert! Little Gobblers, ages 8 and under, get their own set of prizes, making it a fun event for the whole family.
The Flying Feather Four Miler (Dublin)
4 miles // Kid's race
26 minutes from downtown
>> Register Now // $50 - $60
Dublin’s Flying Feather Four Miler is a Thanksgiving staple featuring a scenic 4-mile race starting and finishing at the Club at Corazon. Participants over 21 receive a bottle of wine, a premium hoodie, a finisher’s medal, and free race photos. The event supports the 2nd & 7 Foundation and the Columbus Kids Book Bank, which collect books for local classrooms, combining fitness with community support.
Thanksgiving Wattle (Grove City)
3.1 miles (5k) // 10 miles bike ride // Kid's race
15 minutes from downtown
>> Register Now // $39
On November 28, the 2024 Wattle Race celebrates its 13th year with a variety of activities for all ages, including the Primrose Children's Run, Turkey Leg 100-meter Run, 5K Walk/Run, and 10-mile Rotisserie Roll Bike Ride. Participants receive a pumpkin pie, and finishers of the 5K and Rotisserie Roll get a medal. The event features live music performance, chip timing, and free race photos. It's also inclusive, accommodating athletes of all abilities, and supports the Grove City Food Pantry, aiding local families in need.
Groveport Eye on the Pie 5K (Groveport)
3.1 miles (5k) // Kid's race
20 minutes from downtown
>> Register Now // $30
For a fun Thanksgiving 5K near Columbus, the Groveport Eye on the Pie 5K is a great choice. This lively race includes a T-shirt and, best of all, a whole pie! There's also a Kids Fun Run with a T-shirt for participants, making it a perfect family-friendly event.
The Powell Turkey Trot (Powell)
4 miles // Kid's race
26 minutes from downtown
>> Register Now // $50 - $60
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Powell Turkey Trot features a scenic 4-mile course through Downtown Powell, starting and ending at Village Green Park. This year's race offers a commemorative medal, exclusive anniversary socks, and goodies from Nocterra Brewing Company. There’s also the Gobble Til You Wobble Kids Race for the little ones. Proceeds benefit Bridgeway Academy.
St. Alban’s Bexley Turkey Trot (Bexley)
3.1 miles (5k) // 1.24 miles (2k walk) // Kid's race
11 minutes from downtown
>> Register Now // $40
Continuing its tradition, the 10th anniversary of St. Alban’s Turkey Trot features a 5K run, 2K walk, and a 100-yard “Tot Trot” on Thanksgiving morning. It raises awareness and funds for the Mid-Ohio Food Bank, supporting local families in need.
Columbus Hungry Turkey Run (Downtown - Saturday)
8.74 miles // 6.2 miles (10k) // 3.1 miles (5k) // Kid's race
0 minutes from downtown
>> Register Now // $39 - $99
For those who miss Thanksgiving Day races (or want to keep the holiday running spirit alive), the Columbus Hungry Turkey Run, held the weekend after Thanksgiving, is ideal! With options for a 5K, 10K, and 1/3 marathon, runners will enjoy a scenic downtown course that starts at Genoa Park and follows a paved path along the river.
No matter which event you choose, these Thanksgiving runs offer a fantastic way to stay active and support local causes during the holiday season. Sign up early, lace up your shoes, and enjoy the fun! Check our events calendar for more information.