The 129th Annual YMCA Turkey Trot

The YMCA

The YMCA Turkey Trot is an 8k footrace held annually on Thanksgiving Day in the City of Buffalo, NY. Known to be the oldest consecutively run footrace in the world, the YMCA Turkey Trot will mark its 129th consecutive start in 2024. 

Older than the Boston Marathon, the YMCA Turkey Trot started in 1896 with six runners on dirt roads. Today, the race caps at 14,000 participants. The field of participants includes a mix of competitive and amateur runners, joggers, and walkers, many of whom dress in costume. 

The Turkey Trot is YMCA Buffalo Niagara’s largest fundraising event. Proceeds raised help fund YMCA Buffalo Niagara's work to provide safe, affordable childcare, keep all kids safe around water, combat hunger and food insecurity, close the achievement gap, and ensure health equity for all. 

A virtual option is available for out-of-towners and those unable to take part in the in-person event. Virtual participants have the option to run, jog, or walk an 8k (4.97 miles) route of their choosing anytime over the Thanksgiving weekend.

Register: https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Buffalo/YMCATurkeyTrot

Volunteering & Sponsorship opportunities: https://www.ymcabn.org/ymca-turkey-trot