Orlando families and seniors are gearing up for a beloved Thanksgiving tradition: the Seniors First Turkey Trot 5K at Lake Eola Park. The event marks its 37th year and will take place on Thursday, Nov. 26, with a full morning schedule designed for participants of every age.
Event schedule and activities
Registration opens at 6:30 a.m., followed by a 7:00 a.m. costume contest that encourages creative holiday attire. At 7:45 a.m., runners can test their vocal cords in a turkey call contest before the main 8:00 a.m. 5K race begins. A kids’ Tot Trot will run concurrently, ensuring families can celebrate together.
Supporting seniors in the community
All proceeds from the Turkey Trot go directly to Seniors First, a nonprofit that provides essential services to older adults who may lack access to affordable care. Programs funded by the race include Meals on Wheels, neighborhood lunches, food pantry services, personal care assistance, companionship visits, caregiver respite, guardianship support, and medical equipment assistance. By helping seniors maintain independence, dignity, and quality of life, Seniors First embodies the community‑first spirit that many Orlando residents cherish.
Partnering with local media
WESH 2 has partnered with Seniors First for the fourth consecutive year, promoting the event through its broadcast platform and online channels. The partnership highlights the importance of local media in rallying volunteers, donors, and participants around a cause that benefits the most vulnerable members of the community.
How to get involved
Runners, walkers, and families can register on the event’s website, which provides detailed information on the race route, parking options, and safety guidelines. Participants are encouraged to wear festive attire and bring a spirit of gratitude, as the Thanksgiving morning setting adds a special sense of togetherness.
In addition to the race, volunteers are needed to staff registration tables, hand out water stations, and assist with post‑race cleanup. Community groups, churches, and local businesses are welcome to sponsor the event or donate in‑kind items such as snacks, water bottles, or prizes for the costume and turkey‑call contests.
Why the Turkey Trot matters
Beyond the fun of a holiday run, the Turkey Trot serves as a vital fundraiser for Seniors First’s growing portfolio of services. As Orlando’s senior population continues to expand, the demand for reliable, affordable assistance rises. The race helps bridge that gap, ensuring seniors can remain in their homes and neighborhoods with the support they need.
Local leaders have praised the event for its ability to bring together diverse segments of the community—young families, retirees, civic groups, and businesses—under a shared purpose. The tradition underscores the value of volunteerism and charitable giving that many Floridians hold dear.
For more information, registration details, and to learn how you can support Seniors First, visit the official event page linked below.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
