Turkey Trot registration is closed

Registration is now closed for the 2023 Northfield Rotary Thanksgiving Turkey Trot. 

Now in its 23rd year, the 5K run/walk is a Thanksgiving tradition for Northfield households, an unofficial homecoming for the 1,000 plus folks who want to connect with old friends and neighbors. The Turkey Trot gives people an opportunity to express their gratitude by running or walking for a good cause. Funds raised at the Turkey Trot will support Rotary’s ongoing work with its youth exchange program and polio eradication. It also contributes to local and international service projects the club initiates. 

Jim Loe, chair of Rotary’s Turkey Trot event, said this event has become one of the community’s signature events. 

“You’ll see lots of hugs and hear a lot of catching up before and during the run/walk. There is always a lot of positive energy here,” Loe said.

The Turkey Trot, a chip-timed event, will begin at Carleton College Weitz Center, 320 Third Street East, at 9 a.m. The course winds through the northeast section of town, north to south along Spring Creek Road and back towards the church along Woodley, Seventh Street, Winona and Third. 

The cost of the race is $30. Those who register online by Friday, Nov. 3, are guaranteed an official long-sleeve Turkey Trot T-shirt. Runners and walkers can sign up after that online or in-person at the Weitz Center on the day of the race, beginning at 8 a.m. 

Runners and walkers are encouraged to bring their dogs to the event. Kids in strollers are welcome to ride along with their parents. 

For those who will not be in town the day of the event, there is a “free-range” option. You can show your solidarity with Rotary and its goals by staging your own 5K with family and friends on Thanksgiving Day and upload a photo or video of your experience. Registration for the “free-range” run is also due by Friday, Nov. 3.