ORRC Turkey Trot at the Zoo

The ORRC Turkey Trot at the Zoo is a long-running Thanksgiving-morning tradition that combines a family 5K with a fun, multigenerational start at the Oregon Zoo. Staggered starts begin at 7:30 AM outside the zoo's main gate, with separate short races for children (the Tot Trot for ages 0-4 and the Gobble Gallop for ages 5-10) alongside the adult 5K. Organized by the Oregon Road Runners Club, the event is a relaxed run/walk rather than a competitive race, and finishers receive medals, chocolate treats, and commemorative beanies. A portion of registration fees (roughly $25,000) benefits the Oregon Zoo, and participants can also donate used sneakers through Sneakers4Good. It is a great way to start Thanksgiving with movement and family fun before the holiday meal. Registration is required in advance and closes November 19; there is no day-of registration, and non-member spots are capped, so signing up early is important.