The YMCA Turkey Trot
The YMCA Turkey Trot is an 8k footrace held annually on Thanksgiving Day in the City of Buffalo, NY. The oldest consecutively run footrace in the world, the YMCA Turkey Trot marked its 129th consecutive start in 2024.
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
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.
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.
Packet Pick-Up
Pre-race packet pick-up takes place the Monday through Wednesday before Thanksgiving at the Independent Health Family YMCA, 150 Tech Drive in Amherst. When picking-up your packet be sure to stop by the vendors participating in our Runner’s Expo presented by Runner’s Roost and bring along a non-perishable food donation for our annual Food Drive to support FeedMore WNY.
We strongly encourage participants to pick up their packets in advance if possible.
2024 YMCA Turkey Trot FAQ
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.