YMCA Turkey Trot
Every Thanksgiving morning, while most Texans are basting turkeys or watching parades, more than ten thousand runners, walkers, and strollers — many with dogs in tow — lace up for one of Fort Worth’s most beloved holiday traditions: the YMCA Turkey Trot. Now in its 44th year, the Trot is moving from The Shops at Clearfork to the very heart of the city. For the first time, participants will set out from Bass Hall on Commerce Street and wind past Sundance Square, the Tarrant County Courthouse, and the Trinity River before finishing near the Fort Worth Convention Center. The new route isn’t just about postcard views — it’s also about space, according to a release. With record-breaking crowds year after year, organizers say downtown offers room to grow while keeping the Trot’s festive, family-first spirit intact.
YMCA Turkey Trot
Last year’s races drew more than 12,000 people for the 5K, 8K, and kids’ Gobbler Trot, not to mention the army of pets trotting along in holiday bandanas. But this isn’t just a feel-good jog before the feast: the Turkey Trot raises hundreds of thousands of dollars for the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth, funding programs that range from afterschool care to financial literacy to health initiatives for cancer survivors and those living with Parkinson’s. The 44th Annual YMCA Turkey Trot kicks off Thursday, Nov. 27, with the 1K Gobbler Trot at 7:45 a.m. The 5K and 8K races start together at 8:30 a.m., with awards for top runners at 10 a.m., followed by the costume contest at 10:15 a.m. Texas Health Resources returns as the presenting sponsor for a third year, with support from Moritz Dealerships.
“The Turkey Trot is more than a fun holiday tradition; it’s a powerful engine for good. It fuels a mission that touches thousands of lives each year,” said Mike Brown, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth. “Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors and participants, this event has helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to ensure access to YMCA programs that change lives, from afterschool care and early education to financial literacy for teens and seniors. It even supports critical health initiatives for cancer survivors and individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.”
Whether you’re a competitive runner chasing a personal record or a family out for a pre-pie stroll, downtown Fort Worth will be the place to kick off the holiday this year. Registration is now open at www.fwtrot.org, and you can follow the race on Facebook @FWTROT. Turkey Trot volunteer opportunities and additional sponsorship options are also available.
“We look forward to showcasing our city to all the families and visitors who make the Trot part of their Thanksgiving tradition,” Brown said. “Every step taken on race day helps someone in our community take a step toward a better future.”
