Absolutely. Most events are designed to welcome walkers as well as runners, which is part of what makes the atmosphere so inclusive. You'll usually see whole families strolling together, sometimes with strollers or pets in tow. The only rule of thumb is to line up towards the back of the field, so you don't get caught up in the flow of faster runners at the start.

It depends on the race, and the policies vary more than you might expect. In Austin and Denver, organizers actively encourage strollers and dogs, and you'll see plenty of them on the course. Larger city events sometimes discourage them to keep the start area clear, while smaller community trots often take a more relaxed approach. Always check the event page before you trave l- the last thing you want is to bring a stroller or dog and then be turned away!

Dress for the conditions, not the calendar. In northern states that can mean layering up with gloves, tights, and a hat, while in warmer regions shorts and a tank top are more than enough. Costumes are part of the fun, but they come with their own risks. Test yours beforehand, especially footwear and headgear, to make sure it doesn't cause chafing or restrict your stride. Remember that comfort is what lets you enjoy the race from start to finish.

Yes, and often surprisingly early. The biggest names like Buffalo and Dallas can fill up weeks in advance, especially if you want the commemorative shirt or medal. Community races may be more flexible, but even these often hit capacity as Thanksgiving approaches. If you've got your eye on a particular trot, it's wise to register as soon as you've made your plans rather than leaving it to chance.

That honor goes to the YMCA Buffalo Niagara Turkey Trot, first run in 1896. Just six people took part in that inaugural five-mile contest, but it has since grown into a tradition that now attracts more than 14,000 runners every year. It remains the most historic and best-known event on the calendar.

The Dallas County YMCA Turkey Day 5K regularly brings in tens of thousands of participants, making it one of the biggest holiday runs in the country. The scale of the field is part of its charm: it feels like a city-wide celebration rather than just a race. If you thrive on atmosphere and want to be surrounded by people from all walks of life, this is the one to try.

Two races stand out for their settings. Honolulu's course runs under palm trees with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop, giving you a race morning that feels like a holiday in itself. Denver's Washington Park offers something very different but equally memorable, with snow-tipped mountains on the horizon and crisp autumn air. Both are proof that the scenery can make the miles feel lighter, even when the effort is real.