Before gathering around the table for a Thanksgiving feast, some Lexingtonians might be slipping on their running shoes first.
Here’s our lineup of festive turkey trots + holiday runs in the greater Lexington area — and a few worth hitting the road for — perfect for anyone looking to run, walk, or jog their way into the holiday spirit.
Lexington races
Thoroughbred Classic 5K, Keeneland Race Course
Kick off your holiday weekend at this scenic, horse country 5K on Thanksgiving morning, Nov. 27. Runners of all levels are welcome, with a start time of 9 a.m. Registration is currently $45. Pro tip: $5 racing bibs must be purchased for dogs and strollers.
The Gobbler Half Marathon, 10K & 5K, Mereworth Farm
Run, jog, or walk through the beautiful Mereworth Farm trails on Sunday, Nov. 23. Choose your distance — 5K, 10K, or half marathon — with in-person registration starting at $53.
Southern Lights Stroll 5K, Kentucky Horse Park
Enjoy festive lights and a crisp evening at the Kentucky Horse Park on Saturday, Nov. 22. Choose between a run or a stroll; start times vary. Registration begins at $35.
Gingerbread Run 5K, The Red Mile Racecourse
Celebrate the season at The Red Mile with a 5K full of holiday cheer. The race kicks off at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3. Registration is $40.
Girls on the Run 5K, Keeneland Race Course
You have some time to let your Thanksgiving meal settle before this run on Saturday, Dec. 6. Participate in a 5K in support of Girls on the Run. The race begins at 9 a.m., with a registration fee of $30 for adults and $25 for youth.
YMCA Reindeer Ramble 5K, Keeneland Race Course
Get in the holiday spirit with this family-friendly 5K at Keeneland. The race starts at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, and registration begins at $30. Prices are slated to increase after Sunday, Nov. 16.
Hit the road
Turkey Strut 5K, Nicholasville
Head to Nicholasville to keep the Thanksgiving celebrations rolling with this festive 5K on Saturday, Nov. 22. The race starts at 7:30 a.m., with registration from $28.25.
Huntertown Turkey Trot Fun Run, Versailles
A local favorite. Enjoy a casual 5K through Versailles, treats, and food trucks on Saturday, Nov. 22. The race starts at 11 a.m., and registration is $27.50.
30th Annual Thanksgiving Walk of Awareness, Frankfort
Take a stroll for a cause supporting the Access Soup Kitchen and Men’s Shelter in Frankfort on Thanksgiving morning, Nov. 27. The walk starts at 8 a.m., with a registration of $30.