The Turkey Trot–a time-honored tradition that began in the 19th century–is a string of annual races with global participants, which began this year in Long Island on Nov. 8 and will continue through Nov. 30.
Each race is a 5-kilometer event that occurs near Thanksgiving. The trot has a long history, beginning in 1896 as an 8-kilometer race in Buffalo hosted by the YMCA. The race continued to be held annually as an event for community building. Later on, the race became multipurposed: having fundraising, community building and fitness aspects.
“My [Turkey Trot] felt very relaxed and uncompetitive, but I still pushed myself to be at a chill ‘race pace,’” senior Lea Eshaghoff said. “I was not racing for a particular time, but rather to have fun and enjoy another race in the woods post-season.”
Many participate in the Turkey Trot for a comfortable send-off into the colder weather, having time to bond with their community in a friendly environment.
“I would pass by people of all ages—even a dog—and we would encourage each other, rather than just ‘beating them,’” Eshaghoff said. “Even without talking to each other, a simple head nod or thumbs up goes a long way in races like these.”
The sense of community developed during these races is unparalleled, which, combined with a charitable cause, brings about a warm welcome to the cold seasons. This time of year may be especially difficult for families and individuals without access to shelter or emotional support systems.
“The race benefited the ‘Never Stop Running Foundation,’ a nonprofit that supports athletic and charitable events,” Eshaghoff said. “The race did not feel like it was for a particular cause, but more so to just have a fun time, enjoy some snacks and drinks and feel a sense of community among other people who were all willing to wake up early on a Saturday morning to run 2.8 miles in the woods.”
Aside from the trot, families globally share traditions centered around community building, gratitude and a Thanksgiving feast. Many families take time to show gratitude towards their loved ones and causes for celebration over the past year.
“I enjoy annually seeing my relatives and reflecting on the past year,” sophomore Elenor Li said.
While many focus on the food and gratitude, others appreciate the moments of reconnection with distant relatives in a comforting setting.
“For me, it’s about hanging out with people I don’t see on a regular basis while eating good food,” Mrs. Caldarera said.
This sentiment is shared by many, who choose to focus on the familial gathering during Thanksgiving rather than the food and tradition.
“I think turkey is overrated,” sophomore Jax Wilk said.
Others may argue that food and tradition are integral parts of Thanksgiving and that the day wouldn’t be special without its traditions and history. Dishes such as turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, casseroles, sweet potatoes and gravy are Thanksgiving staples along with each and every family’s personal additions.
While many choose to have a serene meal with family and friends, others have traditions such as giving back to the community, playing football or watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
“Every Thanksgiving, my family and I would give back to the less fortunate and feed the homeless,” junior Erica Grande said.
Dozens of Thanksgiving charities take place annually, from a local level to national charities such as Feeding America and Operation Turkey.
Many of these charities are supported by the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, occurring on Nov. 28 this year. Spanning over 3 hours and costing over $13 million, the parade featured almost 30 floats, 34 balloons, 11 marching bands and 33 clown crews. Furthermore, the parade hosted numerous singers and musical groups such as Cynthia Erivo, Meg Donnelly, The Radio City Rockettes and the voices behind the singing trio in K-Pop Demon Hunters. This annual festival is adored and watched globally, renowned for its unmatched festivity and extravagance.
During Thanksgiving, while each family may have their own unique traditions, families globally are united by their common gratefulness and sense of community.
