Turkey Trotting at 25! Cocoa Beach event marks big celebration on Thanksgiving morning
Since 1999, people have been waking up early Thanksgiving morning to kick off their holiday at the Cocoa Beach Turkey Trot 5K.
This year's race celebrates its 25th anniversary of bringing people together, and is reflecting on what reaching that milestone has meant for the local community.
“The race has been a tremendous fundraiser for Cocoa Beach High School (CBHS) because of the support of the City of Cocoa Beach, local businesses, residents of Cocoa Isles and the community at large, and visitors,” said long time race director Marlene White.
In the 12 years White has been overseeing the race, the event has raised more than $175K for running and youth leadership programs at CBHS, with an additional $25K in scholarships funds generated on behalf of the race by the Kiwanis Club of Cocoa Beach.
“The race funds both the CBHS track & field and cross-country programs, helped to pay for the school’s new track and related equipment, and has provided local students with scholarship opportunities,” said White. “We’re proud of what this community has helped us accomplish, and are looking forward to the next 25 years in Cocoa Beach!”
The 25th Annual Cocoa Beach Turkey Trot 5K happens Thanksgiving morning in Downtown Cocoa Beach, and is open to runners and walkers of all ages and ability levels.
Well-behaved, leashed dogs and strollers are welcome — but are asked to please stay to the far right of the course. Costumes are encouraged, and festively-clad Turkey Teams (groups of people working together to carry a frozen turkey for the duration of the race) are always entertaining to watch.
Participants receive a finisher medal and a special, anniversary-edition race shirt. This year, long sleeve and toddler shirts will also be available (for an additional fee). After the event, there’s a free kids run, refreshments, raffles, and an impressive assortment of door prizes from local businesses.
More Race Information:
When: 8 a.m. Thursday, November 23
Where: Baliwick Mall / 20 North Brevard Ave., Cocoa Beach
Cost: $30 (until 11/22, then $35)
Register: Cocoabeachturkeytrot.com
This article originally appeared on Florida Today: 25th annual Cocoa Beach Turkey Trot kicks off Thanksgiving festivities
