By 1808Delaware
The 12th Annual Powell Turkey Trot returns Thursday, November 26, bringing runners, walkers, families, and children to downtown Powell for a holiday tradition that combines fitness, fun, and charitable giving.
Beginning and ending at Village Green Park, the event features a four-mile race, a children’s run, and a popular costume contest. This year’s celebration will also support an effort to provide Thanksgiving dinners to families experiencing food insecurity across Central Ohio.
Running for a Cause
Beyond the miles covered on Thanksgiving morning, the Powell Turkey Trot has another goal: helping more local families enjoy a holiday meal. This year’s event will benefit the Columbus Turkey Drive, a Central Ohio nonprofit organization working to provide complete Thanksgiving dinners to families in need. In 2025, the organization helped more than 2,000 Central Ohio families celebrate Thanksgiving with traditional turkey dinners. Organizers hope to build on that accomplishment in 2026 with support from race participants, local businesses, and community members.
The partnership adds a charitable purpose to a morning already centered on family and togetherness. Every registration offers participants an opportunity to contribute to a broader community effort while enjoying one of Powell’s established holiday traditions.
Costumes Add a Little Thanksgiving Fun
While some participants will arrive hoping to set a personal record, others may be more interested in contuning a bit of Halloween by showing off their Thanksgiving creativity.
The Turkey Trot’s popular costume contest returns this year, inviting participants of all ages to dress for the occasion. Turkey outfits, coordinated family costumes, and other holiday-inspired creations are encouraged. Participants will vote on their favorites before the main race begins at 9:00 AM, with cash prizes awarded to the winners.
The contest has become another way for families and groups of friends to make the holiday outing memorable, whether they plan to run the entire course or simply enjoy a morning walk.
Two Races Start the Holiday
The Thanksgiving morning activities will take place at Village Green Park, located at 47 Hall Street in downtown Powell.
The day’s schedule includes:
- 8:30 AM: Kids’ Wobble ‘Till You Gobble Race
- 9:00 AM: Powell Turkey Trot 4-Miler
The event welcomes competitive runners, recreational participants, walkers, and families looking for an active start to Thanksgiving Day. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the four-mile event provides an opportunity to enjoy the holiday atmosphere alongside friends and neighbors. Younger participants can take part in the children’s race before the main event gets underway.
Packet pickup will be available at the Powell Community Room on Tuesday, November 24, and Wednesday, November 25.
Registration Open Ahead of Thanksgiving
Organizers are encouraging participants to register early, noting that another registration price increase is approaching. Early registration can provide savings and access to additional event merchandise, while also allowing participants to secure their place in this year’s celebration.
Registration is available through the event’s official page at RunSignup.
For many participants, the Powell Turkey Trot has become as much a part of Thanksgiving as the meal that follows. The chance to gather with neighbors, share a few laughs, get some exercise, and help families in need offers a meaningful way to begin the holiday. And on November 26, that tradition will continue for the 12th year, one step at a time.
Source: Powell Turkey Trot
