The Big Turkey Half Marathon, 10K, 5K races

The Big Turkey Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K is a Thanksgiving Day race series held at Oak Ridge Park in Union County, New Jersey. Participants can select the half marathon, 10K, or 5K. Virtual-only options for all three distances are available for those preferring to run independently. The event proceeds regardless of weather, aligning with the holiday spirit: complete the run in the morning before continuing with Thanksgiving. The course features mostly flat paved paths within Oak Ridge Park, bordered by manicured lawns and rows of birch, oak, and pine trees. The 5K includes distinct youth categories for ages 7-9 and 10-13, allowing families to participate without placing younger runners solely in adult divisions. All finishers receive a medal and a technical shirt. Awards are presented to the top three male and female finishers in each distance, along with gender-based age groups beginning with 19 and under. Now in its third year, the race embraces the straightforward appeal of a holiday run: a flat park course, multiple distance options, and a community eager to participate before the main meal.