The YMCA Turkey Trot
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 128th consecutive start in 2023.
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.
Supporting our Community
This event is YMCA Buffalo Niagara’s largest fundraising event, now raising over $300,000 annually to help fund YMCA programs that empower youth, ensure health equity, and provide support to our community’s most vulnerable.
Race Route
The in-person route (4.97 miles) begins on Delaware Avenue at Tacoma Avenue in North Buffalo and finishes on Franklin Street near the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. Click here to view a map of the full course.
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.
YMCA Turkey Trot FAQ's
The Turkey Trot phone line is 716-565-6000. Follow this page for updates, or you can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.