On Nov. 28, Port Washington will be holding its 44th annual Thanksgiving Day run,
otherwise known as the “Turkey Trot.” Every year on the morning of Thanksgiving, Port
Washington residents run to finally pay off for their hard work during the training process.
The Turkey Trot is a five mile course which some people run or walk, while other
members of the community simply cheer on family and friends from the sidelines. No matter
how one plays a part in the race, the Turkey Trot is a special tradition in Port Washington that is
honored each year.
“Even though I walk for a majority of the race, walking alongside the community each
year gives me great satisfaction,” said freshman Ava Demarzo.
The race officially starts at 8:30 am, but most people arrive at the starting line earlier to
avoid traffic before the roads close and to warm up. The path that the runners take around Port
Washington starts and ends on Manorhaven Boulevard, which is adjacent to the Manorhaven
Park parking lot. While the Turkey Trot is a major event in Port Washington, it is also held in
multiple cities across Long Island. Approximately 3,000 people take part in the race each year.
“It’s so special that the whole town comes together each year to watch or participate in
the race with friends and family and also to celebrate Thanksgiving Day morning as a team,”
said senior Lindsey Smith.
The Turkey Trot is a fun community event that generates a sense of unity and raises
money for charity. The adult registration fees costs $50 if one signs up before the race, and $60
on the day of the race. Children registration fees cost $25 before the race, and $35 on the day
of the race. The children’s registration fees range from ages 9-21. The money raised from the
fees proceeds to the Community Chest of Port Washington, which aids in many different
charities within Port Washington.
“I love the energy and sense of community that arises each year during this event. It’s so
enriching to be able to give back to others while also enjoying a nice Thanksgiving Day
morning,” said freshman Jack Marcus.
Last year, a total of $100,000 was raised from the race’s proceeds. These funds were
donated to various charities, including the Port Washington Children’s Center, PYA, and The
Parent Resource Outreach program.
Schreiber students who participate in Key Club also help out with the Turkey Trot. These

volunteers distribute race packets a few days prior to the race. This includes a long sleeve T-
shirt and the race number. Most of the participants wear the long sleeve T-shirt provided, and

some even choose to wear festive costumes such as turkey hats, Santa hats, or reindeer
antlers. At the end of the race, participants run through the finish line and receive a medal and
rewarding refreshments.
“I have been running the Turkey Trot since I was 9 years old. It’s a yearly tradition for my
family, and I’m looking forward to running it again this year!” said junior Sabina Novo.
Whether one chooses to walk, run, or watch the Turkey Trot from the side, it is a fun,
festive event where the whole community comes together and raises money for many different
causes.