Life Time hosts an annual Turkey Trot race in Chicago to support charitable organizations. This year’s Turkey Trot raised funds for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, aiming to assist those in need.

Registration fees ranged from $50-$55 for the 5K and $55-$60 for the 8K. Participants were required to be at least 8 years old, while children aged 2-12 could join the kids’ race, with or without a guardian.

The event offered three races: the 5K, 8K, and kids’ race. To accommodate varying paces, participants were grouped by their mile split times, ensuring an organized and smooth experience.

Participants were expected to arrive at Lincoln Park between 6:00 and 8:45 a.m., where multiple signs provided clear directions. Life Time also set up activities for families and participants to enjoy before and after the race. Tents offered hot beverages to combat the chilly temperatures, as well as snacks like turkey legs, protein chips, donuts, fruit, and more. Another tent handed out complimentary Life Time bags containing essentials like mini deodorant sprays, stickers, and commemorative Turkey Trot long-sleeved shirts. For kids, there were ball games and photo opportunities.

First time Turkey Trot runner Nancy Cielo expresses, “I love how this event brought so many family and friends together. I was so surprised to see so many people run”.

Participants of all ages showed up for Life Time’s Turkey Trot, ranging from 4 to 98 years old. Many joined the 5-kilometer race with friends and family, embracing the festive spirit.

“We live in the neighborhood, so we always run it just for fun,” runner Terry Bressler, who participates annually with his family, said.

Not all participants were year-round athletes; many prepared solely for the occasion, seeking a unique and exciting addition to their Thanksgiving tradition. Along the course, water and bathroom stations were available, and emergency staff were on hand to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

First-time Trot participant Karisa Flores shared that her performance inspired her to pursue a newfound interest in running. “I just started running, and I just signed up for the marathon,” Flores said.

Despite the low 30-degree temperatures, many participants embraced the festive spirit, dressing up in colorful tights, poof-ed up skirts, and turkey hats, showcasing their creativity and enthusiasm for the event. Friends and family who were not running lined the course with signs to cheer on the runners. The posters featured motivating quotes or pictures to keep the participants going, such as “Touch this to get a boost!” which seemed to energize the runners.

Once finished, each runner was given a Thanksgiving medal and provided with a small assortment of drinks.

Many people found the run thrilling and enjoyable since everyone was encouraging one another and were there greeting and running for a cause as well as an experience.

Many runners saw the Turkey Trot as an exciting and memorable experience. “I just felt like the feeling of feeling proud of myself after running came back again” Cielo said.

Taking a opportunity to be thankful once a year and experience new memories is extremely crucial into ending 2024.