Before you settle in on the couch to indulge in all the holiday fixins’… stuffing, turkey, pumpkin pie, mac and cheese… you get the point, consider getting in a little exercise. Avoid the guilt that comes with the holiday “gut” and run one of our many turkey trots on the Delmarva Peninsula! They are purposely planned so you can feel good in the morning, get home just in time to watch the Macy’s Day Parade, and spend the rest of the day in the kitchen. Thanksgiving is almost here and we can’t wait!

The NFL Football 5K Challenge

OCMD Boardwalk, November 15th

THIS IS NOT JUST FOR RAVENS AND STEELERS FANS ANYMORE! Yup, pick your favorite NFL Football team and join in on the fun! The 5K race will start on the OCMD boardwalk at 27th Street at 9AM, the top 25 time scores for each restaurant will be added and the fastest time wins the trophy for their establishment and bragging rights for the 2014-2015 football season. Tickets to participate are $40.00 and includes the race, a ribbon, tech shirt and one drink ticket redeemable at Buxy’s or Pit-N-Pub.

Gabby Gobble 5K

Irish Eyes Restaurant & Pub, November 27th

This is an inspiring story that has touched so many, and another event that will benefit the Get Well Gabby Foundation. Located at Irish Eyes Pub, this is the inaugural event for the 5K fundraiser! On Thanksgiving Day, the registration begins at 8:30AM and the race will start at 9:30PM. There will be long sleeve tees, post-race refreshments, and beer. This is a great event with an even BETTER cause!

7th Annual Fenwick Island Turkey Trot

Oceanside on Lewes Street, November 27th

The 7th Annual Fenwick Island Turkey Trot will be held on Thursday, November 27th at 8AM with a pre-race workout, sponsored by hipAHA Fenwick Island Boot Camp, starting at 7:40AM. The untimed 2.2 mile fun run/walk starts Oceanside on Lewes Street in Fenwick Island, goes south to the Maryland State Line and back. All are welcome, including leashed pets. There is no charge to participate, but partakers are encouraged to donate to the Global Delaware Fund. The Global Delaware Fund was formed by Matt Haley of SoDel Concepts, who recently passed away. Post trot, there will be a complimentary coffee, hot chocolate and oatmeal reception held at Pottery Place Perks Café.

6th Annual Turkey Trek 5K

Pemberton Park, November 27th

Come run the Turkey Trek 5K along Pemberton Historical Park’s beautiful nature trails in Salisbury, Maryland. The race winds through the parks forests, meadows and wetlands. Participants can enjoy healthy refreshments as well as pie and ice cream afterwards. (Pre-gaming for the big meal!) The race starts at 9AM and a $25 entrance fee.

3rd Annual Great Turkey Chase at Queenstown Harbor Golf

Queenstown Harbor Golf, November 27th

The Great Turkey Chase at Queenstown Harbor is a family-oriented fun event. You can enjoy Thanksgiving morning amongst family and friends on a beautiful walk/run in a peaceful setting before settling in for feasting and football! The Great Turkey Chase benefits The Maryland Food Bank so make sure to bring canned food items. And don’t forget to dress up in costumes! The race starts at 8AM.

Turkey Trot

Sea Colony, November 30th

If you’re planning to indulge this Thanksgiving, there is no better way to burn off those extra calories than a 5K run that raises money for charity. You run through the west side of Sea Colony and raise money for the Special Olympics Delaware. The race begins at the Freeman Fitness Center.