As Thanksgiving approaches, many look for an active and fun way to start the holiday weekend—enter the beloved Turkey Trot. Around Lake Oswego, OR, several community races offer a way for families, friends, and individuals to walk or jog together, taking in the fall air and festive spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or someone simply wanting to move before the big meal, these events provide a meaningful start to the season.
These races often bring more than just footsteps on pavement—they foster connection, joy, and support local causes. In this article, we’ll explore popular runs and walks in and around Lake Oswego in late 2025, highlight their charitable causes, offer training tips for cooler weather, and show how the whole family can join in the fun.
Popular Runs and Walks
In the greater Portland and Lake Oswego region, several prominent Turkey Trots are scheduled for late November 2025. For example, the Les Schwab Tires HTC Turkey Trot at Portland International Raceway offers a 5K run/walk on November 26, 2025, and is open to families and walkers of varying paces. Meanwhile, the community-focused Give n’ Gobble Turkey Trot in Sherwood features 5K and 10K options on Thanksgiving morning and is quite accessible for Lake Oswego residents.
These events are often untimed or have relaxed rules so that walkers and families feel encouraged rather than pressured. For those seeking a scenic or festive setting, these region-wide events are within easy reach of Lake Oswego and offer a pre-holiday outing for all ages.
Charity Focus
An essential component of many of these runs is the support they provide to area nonprofits, food banks, or local schools. The Give n’ Gobble event, for instance, directs its proceeds and food donations to the Helping Hands Food Bank via its partnership in Sherwood. And the HTC Turkey Trot benefits the Sunshine Division, a food-relief organization in the Portland metro area.
This means when participants join these events, they’re doing more than logging miles—they’re contributing to their community. Registration fees, donations, and volunteers all help make a difference, which adds an uplifting layer to the post-race experience.
Family Fun for All Ages
These races often feature more than the typical run. Many include costume contests, kids’ fun runs, stroller-friendly waves, and themed finisher items. The HTC Turkey Trot, for example, lists separate waves for kids and families, with a fun run option before the main 5K. The Give n’ Gobble event also encourages families to participate, often offering discounts for multiple household members and welcoming walkers, strollers, and children.
In addition, many events invite festive costumes—turkey outfits, silly hats, holiday colors—and some offer prizes for best costume or most spirited participant. This adds an element of playfulness that invites all ages to join, rather than focusing solely on competition.
Training Tips for Cool Weather Events
Preparing for a late-November run in the Lake Oswego area means accounting for cooler temperatures, possible rain, and varied terrain. Beginners should focus on consistent walks or light jogs in the weeks leading up to the event, gradually increasing as comfortable. It’s wise to dress in layers so you can remove a piece once warm; moisture-wicking base layers plus a light windbreaker are good choices.
Footwear should provide good traction, especially if the course includes damp pavement or leaves. Don’t skip the warm-up: dynamic stretches, leg swings, and a brief walk/jog before the start help your body transition. On the day of the race, arrive early to avoid last-minute stress—check parking, bib pick-up, and drop bags beforehand. And finally, remember to hydrate—even in cold weather, your body needs fluids, so bring a water bottle or plan to stop at water stations.
Choosing Your Event and Logistics
Selecting the best Turkey Trot for your group involves considering distance (5K vs 10K), start time, family-friendliness, and location. For example, evening runs like the HTC 5K may suit older kids and teens, while morning outings like Give n’ Gobble might work better for younger children and families. Check registration deadlines early, as many of these events fill up. According to listings, registration for the HTC event increases in cost closer to the date.
Be sure to review any requirement for strollers or pets; some courses may restrict dogs for safety reasons. Also consider logistics, such as parking or public transit, if driving is limited. Many events list volunteer opportunities, which can be a meaningful option for families not ready to run but still wanting to take part.
Making It a Holiday Tradition
The vibe around these races extends beyond the finish line. Completing a Turkey Trot becomes a memory, a photo op, a story. For many families around Lake Oswego, it means combining movement with purpose—supporting a food bank, spending time together, then returning home for Thanksgiving breakfast or prep with a sense of accomplishment.
Encouraging children to participate in smaller kids’ runs or fun-walks sets a positive tone for their active lifestyle. It also reinforces the value of giving back through athletic activity. Whether you race, walk, or volunteer, the communal spirit of these events invites all to connect.
For runners, walkers, and families in and around Lake Oswego, OR, participating in a Turkey Trot is an uplifting way to start the holiday. These events highlight the balance of community, charity, movement, and joy. With thoughtful training, a festive mindset, and perhaps a costume ready, you can turn a simple run into a meaningful tradition.
As you register, plan your outfit, look up course details, and rally your crew, remember that your participation matters. It matters to you, to your loved ones, and to the cause that benefits from your effort. Raise your pace, take in the holiday energy, and cross that finish line with good cheer—and maybe a slice of pie.
Sources: runsignup.com, portlandraceway.com, givengobble.com, runguides.com, hoodtocoast.com
Header Image Source: runsignup.com
