14th annual Seattle Turkey Trot goes virtual for 2020

The 14th annual Seattle Turkey Trot will be happening virtually this year, allowing participants to run anywhere, anytime, while raising money for the Ballard Food Bank.

As is tradition, most will likely be running the Turkey Trot 5k on Thanksgiving morning. In years past, thousands have descended on Sunset Hill for the annual fun run, which ends at Golden Gardens.

“The participants of this family-friendly community event can run any time of day and post their photos and videos on social media using #SeattleTurkeyTrot,” the Ballard Food Bank announced in a statement about the event.

Ballardites Erin Fortier, Matt Ramme, and John O’Brien started the Seattle Turkey Trot in 2007. That first year, just 50 ran the 5k. Last year, the event drew almost 5,000 participants, making it one of the biggest annual fundraisers for the Ballard Food Bank.

“We’re committed to continue this run despite the pandemic and look forward to seeing all the excitement and fun via social media,” Matt Ramme said.

Registration for the event is $35 if you sign up by Oct. 31, and $40 for regular registrations (Nov. 1-25). All participants will receive a Turkey Trot t-shirt in the mail, and all proceeds will go to the Ballard Food Bank.

Photo: Seattle Turkey Trot 2019 on Facebook