Thanksgiving is approaching, and that means the Turkey Trot 5K Run and Fitness Walk is back in action. Registrations are now open for the event, which is set to take place on the crisp morning of November 27, 2025, in downtown Fountain Hills, with the start line beckoning participants at 7:15 am. Interested runners and walkers can secure their spot by heading to the official registration page at FountainHillsAZ.Gov/TurkeyTrot.
The much-loved event, proudly presented by The Pellegrini Group (MCO Realty), promises to rally the community for some healthy pre-feast action. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, it's an inclusive bash where the seasoned and the casual, the athletic and the festive-dressed converge. Recreation Manager Ryan Preston was quoted in a town announcement saying, “Each year, the Turkey Trot brings our community together in such a fun and energetic way.”
This year adds an engaging twist with the Mayor's Challenge. Fountain Hills Mayor Gerry Friedel is laying down the gauntlet, committing to donate $1 to Extended Hands Food Bank for every person who clocks in faster than his own time. Mayor Friedel's excitement was palpable as he stated, “I’ve never been more excited to give away money,” in a town announcement, hoping to fuel registration and support for the local food bank.
The event is divided between a chip-timed 5K run for competitors and a 1-mile fitness walk that's suitable to folks of every age and ability. Early bird pricing is available until November 6th. Packet pickup has already begun, with participants able to collect their packs during regular hours at Town Hall. All details, including the registration link and packet pickup information, are found on the event’s website.
