This Thanksgiving at 9 a.m., the Dallas Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) will be hosting its annual Turkey Trot. The Turkey Trot is mainly composed of two different races: the five kilometer (5K) Fun Run and the traditional eight mile run.

“The 5K has the most participation,” YMCA business service director Susan Casey said.

Those that participate in the 5K tend to run at their own pace. For those who are looking for a more endurance-based athletic event, there is the eight mile run available.

“The 5K and eight mile start out on the same course,” Casey said, “Then the eight mile forks off. The main difference between the two races is the distance.”

Both races have thousands of participants every year. They provide a Thanksgiving themed pastime for those who enjoy running.

“I regularly participate in several runs like the Turkey Trot each year,” teacher and Turkey Trot participant Phillip Pitts said. “I like participating in the Turkey Trot because it is a large community event that supports local YMCAs.”

Proceeds from the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot aid in the progression of several nonprofit organizations.

”Every race at the Turkey Trot helps benefit a wide variety of YMCA programs, including after school programs from 80 different schools,” Casey said.

This year, the Turkey Trot is incorporating several new things  that are different from previous years.

“We will have a new course this year along with new entertainment on the route and around City Hall Plaza,” Casey said.

Aside from running, the Turkey Trot also provides many volunteer opportunities. Anyone who wants to volunteer will be given one of several different tasks throughout the race, such as handing out water or helping manage the flow of runners.

“I am really looking forward to helping out at the Turkey Trot,” junior Shivani Kottur said. “I think it will be fun to see my friends there who might be running.”

Ultimately, the Turkey Trot is open to all who want to participate. There is so much more to this event than just running miles. Instead, the Turkey Trot is a time where a community can come together.

“Even if you’re not a runner or walker, there are plenty of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy,” Casey said.