Owensboro, Ky. – The city is introducing a new Thanksgiving tradition with its inaugural Turkey Trot, a free community fitness event scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 26. Organized in partnership with the local nonprofit Project Rise, the trot will begin promptly at 7:29 a.m. in front of the Owensboro Convention Center.
Participants need not register or RSVP; they can simply arrive, park in the convention‑center lot or the Locust Street Parking Garage, and join the walk, jog or run. The 30‑minute loop follows Veterans Boulevard and the riverfront, ending back at the convention center at the same time for all participants.
Project Rise, which has been meeting at Smothers Park every Thursday morning for the past ten years, sees the Turkey Trot as a natural extension of its “Walk Owensboro” initiative. That program has organized group walks throughout the fall season, encouraging residents to stay active and connected.
“Walk Owensboro and Project Rise are already doing a great job getting people out to walk and run in our community, and this is a chance to partner with both and offer something fun on Thanksgiving morning,” said Tim Ross, public events director for the city. “It’s a great way to start the holiday with family and friends, whether you prefer a competitive run or a casual walk, and we hope everyone will come out and join us.”
Why the Turkey Trot Matters
The event aligns with the city’s broader goals of promoting health, family togetherness, and community spirit. By offering a free, low‑key activity before the holiday feast, officials hope to inspire residents to incorporate physical activity into their Thanksgiving traditions.
Local families, seniors, and fitness enthusiasts are all welcome. The early start time ensures participants can enjoy the trot and still have plenty of the day for holiday preparations and celebrations.
Practical Details
Date and Time: Thursday, Nov. 26, 7:29 a.m. (30‑minute loop)
Location: Owensboro Convention Center, with the route looping along Veterans Boulevard and the riverfront.
Parking: Available in the convention‑center lot and the Locust Street Parking Garage.
Cost: Free – no registration required.
For more information, residents can visit the City of Owensboro’s website or contact the public events office.
The Turkey Trot marks the conclusion of the fall “Walk Owensboro” series, capping off a season of community walks that have helped residents stay active and connected. Organizers hope the new tradition will become an annual fixture, giving Owensboro families a healthy way to begin their Thanksgiving celebrations.
Original reporting: 14 News WFIE Evansville (news) — read the source article.
