Hendersonville’s Turkey Trot: A Fun and Festive Family Tradition Awaits - TribPapers
Community

Hendersonville’s Turkey Trot: A Fun and Festive Family Tradition Awaits

Photo submitted.

Hendersonville – Hendersonville prepares for a unique Thanksgiving tradition that combines fitness, fun, and family. The City’s 12th Annual Turkey Trot 5K is set to kick off on November 28, 2024, promising a delightful way to start the holiday. Whether you’re a competitive runner, a leisurely walker, or someone who loves to don a festive costume, this event welcomes all.

A Race with Heart

The Turkey Trot was born from a desire to create a Thanksgiving race in Hendersonville, a concept that was absent from the local scene twelve years ago. “To our surprise, 400 people registered that first year,” said Lu Ann Welter, a member of the City’s Wellness Team. “So, one day a year, we were in the race business.” The course is designed to showcase Hendersonville’s charming Main Street, the historic West Side District, and Oakdale Cemetery, all of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Registration for the event is just $15, which includes a long-sleeved t-shirt. This price point has been carefully maintained to ensure it remains family-friendly. “We started at $10 in 2013, and while prices have risen to $15 now, we’re not looking to make money—just cover costs,” Welter explained.

More Than Just a Race

What sets the Turkey Trot apart from other races is its emphasis on fun rather than competition. Instead of traditional age and gender categories for prizes, the event features four unique awards: fastest male, fastest female, furthest traveled (with last year’s winner coming from Germany), and a mystery time prize. “Each year, we select a random time in advance, and when someone crosses the finish line closest to that time, they win,” Welter said.

Costumes are highly encouraged, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the event. Participants often arrive in creative outfits ranging from turkeys to pumpkins, creating a colorful and lively atmosphere. “Thanksgiving has become the biggest race day of the year,” Welter noted. “For many families, it’s a tradition to do the race together.”

Community Spirit Shines Bright

The Turkey Trot has evolved into more than just a race; it’s a community event that brings families together. Welter shared stories of grandparents reaching out for details because their grandchildren want to participate. Some local families have made it a point to run every year, with college students returning home specifically for the trot. “You’ll see all ages out in the brisk air to walk or run,” she said.

As the event has grown—over 1,400 participants registered last year—new challenges have emerged. In 2023, for instance, the City worked with NCDOT to reroute traffic around downtown for safety reasons. “Safety is a concern as we continue to grow,” Welter acknowledged.

Volunteers Make It Happen

Behind every successful community event are dedicated volunteers, and the Turkey Trot is no exception. Many City employees lend their time on race day, including City Manager John Connet, who helps with setup, runs the race, and assists with cleanup afterward. “Community members and family members of runners also help out,” Welter said. “They give out packets, work the water station, direct runners—whatever is needed.”

The sense of community is palpable during the event as everyone comes together to support one another and celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Join the Fun!

The Turkey Trot kicks off at 8:30 a.m. outside City Hall at Fifth Avenue East and King Street. Runners and walkers should plan to finish by 10:30 a.m., leaving plenty of time for Thanksgiving feasts. Race packets can be picked up on November 25th and 26th at City Hall from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with unclaimed packets redistributed by 9 a.m. on race day.

For those interested in participating or volunteering, registration is available online for just $15. Volunteers will receive a free t-shirt for their efforts.

So this Thanksgiving morning, gather your family and friends and join in on the fun at Hendersonville’s 12th Annual Turkey Trot! For more information or to register, visit [www.hendersonvillenc.gov/turkeytrot](http://www.hendersonvillenc.gov/turkeytrot). If you have questions, reach out to Lu Ann Welter at (828) 233-3204 or lwelter@hvlnc.gov.

This event is not just about running; it’s about creating memories and celebrating community spirit as families come together to kick off their holiday season in style.