On November 27, 2024
Arts, Dining & Entertainment

It’s time to turkey trot again: Woodstock and Killington’s annual Thanksgiving traditions support local charities and causes

turkey trot
Courtesy of Zack’s Place A family of runners posed for a photo op at a previous Zack’s Place Turkey Trot.

WOODSTOCK—Nov. 28 at 10 a.m. The Zack’s Place 2024 Turkey Trot 5K Thanksgiving race returns, bringing together runners and walkers of all ages for a cherished holiday tradition. This annual event, now a staple in the Woodstock community, kicks off on Thursday, Nov. 28, at 10 a.m. with the starting line at Woodstock Elementary School.

Key Details

• Packet Pickup: Available on Nov. 27 from 3-5 p.m. at Woodstock Elementary School.

• Race Day Registration: Opens at 8 a.m. and closes at 9:30 a.m. at the same location to ensure a prompt start. The fee is $35 for racers.

• Live Music: John Snyder’s Band will entertain participants and spectators throughout the event.

• Race Route: The course winds through Woodstock’s historic village, past Billings Farm, around Mountain Avenue, and back to the town green, ending where it began.

• Participants can enjoy refreshments and live music during the award ceremony after the race, where medals will be presented to top finishers. This event caters to all fitness levels, with skilled runners leading the pack and families, including grandparents and young children, walking the course.

Community Growth

The race has grown significantly since its inception. In 2007, nearly 200 participants joined; by 2023, over 1,700 people raised an impressive $119,000. Proceeds directly support operational costs, reflecting the community’s dedication to this cause.

Important Updates

• Due to past issues, pets, including dogs, will no longer be permitted in the race.

• Satellite participants, joining virtually, are also welcome to contribute to this annual fundraiser.

Parking Information

Participants are encouraged to use the following parking locations

• Mill Building: 21710-41F Maxham Meadow Way

• Sunset Farms: 21710 Maxham Meadow Way

• East End Park: 217-03 Maxham Meadow Way

• OHC/Masonic Temple: 30 Pleasant St.

• Billings Farm & Museum: 69 Old River Road

• Woodstock Rec. Center: 54 River  St.

• Woodstock Country Club: 78 South  St.

• Village street parking is available on Elm, Central, and Pleasant Streets. 

Please note that parking is not permitted around the Woodstock Village Green.

KILLINGTON—Nov. 28 at 9:30 a.m. It’s double the turkey trot fun! If you’d like to support local charities, and Killington is the more convenient location, Killington’s 13th annual turkey trot happens Thanksgiving morning at 9:30 a.m. Admission is $30 in advance or $35 on race day. The race begins at the Pickle Barrel, 1741  Killington Road. Registration starts at 8 a.m., and the run supports local charities and organizations. Plenty of parking is available, and run or walk, all ages are welcome to get in on the fun, which features live music, a bar, and an assortment of raffle prizes.

Whether you’re trotting in Woodstock or Killington, if you’re spending Thanksgiving morning supporting either event, you are guaranteed to start the holiday with some fine calorie burning and contribute to some worthy causes.

For more information, go to: zacksplacevt.org or killingtonturkeytrot.com

Submitted
Runners will gather at various locations  the area to run or walk a 5K race and fundraiser on Thanksgiving day. The Killington Turkey Trot (above) starts at Jax on Killington Road.

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