Leavenworth’s Fowl Play 5k to mark ten years of local Thanksgiving tradition

LEAVENWORTH - Leavenworth’s 10th Annual Turkey Trot, affectionately known as the Fowl Play 5k, will take place on Thanksgiving morning, November 28th, to bring the community together for a decade of fitness, fun, and fundraising.

Every Thanksgiving, people run, walk, or waddle through rain, snow, or sun in a fun community event that also welcomes Leavenworth’s holiday visitors. Costumes, dogs, kids in strollers, and walkers - all are welcome for this lively, untimed 5K.

Participants are encouraged to embrace the festive spirit by donning Thanksgiving-themed costumes. 

Started in 2014 by the Cascade High School tennis team and now organized by the cross country team in partnership with the Leavenworth Ski Hill Heritage Foundation, the Fowl Play 5k has become a hometown Thanksgiving tradition. 

“We’re excited to be holding the tenth annual Fowl Play 5k,” said cross country coach Dayle Massey. “This event has become a staple in our community, and it’s a wonderful way to kick off Thanksgiving Day while supporting local kids in sports.”

Over the past decade, the Fowl Play 5k has continued to grow, with almost 300 participants last year. This year, organizers are aiming to continue that trend.

“We’re hoping to see a record number of participants this year,” added Massey. “Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to get active with family and friends, we encourage everyone to join us.”

Did you know? The Turkey Trot has a surprisingly long and rich history, predating even the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. It all began in 1896 with a serious 8k race organized by the YMCA in Buffalo, New York. Over the decades, it evolved from a competitive event into the fun, family-friendly tradition happening in countless cities and towns across the United States. So, when you participate in the Fowl Play 5k, you’re taking part in a piece of American history!

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, November 28th, 2024
• Time: 9:00 AM
• Location: Front Street Gazebo, downtown Leavenworth
• Registration: https://runsignup.com/Race/WA/Leavenworth/FowlPlay5K

Don’t miss your chance to join the fun, celebrate Thanksgiving with your community, support a worthy cause, and burn some calories before the feast! Register today for the 10th Annual Fowl Play 5k and be a part of this Leavenworth tradition.

Caroline Menna is an intern for Ward Media and a senior at Cascade High School, where she serves as Editor-in-Chief of the school’s Publications Group.