On Thanksgiving morning, Arlington, Virginia will come alive as thousands gear up for the 19th annual Turkey Trot 5k. Despite forecasts predicting rain, around 4,000 participants, including both runners and walkers, are expected to take part in this cherished community event, which is sure to go on rain or shine.
The Turkey Trot is particularly special to local residents, as the proceeds from the race are donated to 18 local non-profits by the Christ Church of Arlington. The race will kick off in the Lyons Park neighborhood, specifically at the intersection of N. Pershing Dr. and Fillmore St., winding through the Ashton Heights area.
Community members should be aware that to accommodate the event, several road closures will be in effect from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. The Arlington County Police have outlined the following streets that will be closed:
– N. Pershing Drive from N. Edgewood Street to N. Piedmont Street
– N. Oxford Street from N. Pershing Drive to 4th Street N.
– N. Oakland Street from N. Pershing Drive to the Columbia Gardens Cemetery Side Entrance
– 4th Street N. from N. Oxford Street to N. Nelson Street
– N. Irving Street from 9th Street N. to 2nd Road N.
– 2nd Road N. from N. Irving Street to the Columbia Gardens Cemetery Side Entrance
– 9th Street N. from N. Irving Street to N. Highland Street
– N. Highland Street from 9th Street N. to 1st Street N.
– 1st Street N. from N. Highland Street to N. Fillmore Street
– N. Fillmore Street from 1st Street N. to N. Pershing Drive
Participants will begin arriving as early as 6:30 a.m. to pick up their race packets, with the official start time scheduled for 8 a.m. For those who are not participating in the Turkey Trot but need to navigate through Arlington to reach their Thanksgiving destinations, it’s advisable to either leave early or brace for potential traffic delays caused by the closures and the wet road conditions.
As the community comes together to support local non-profits and celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving, the Turkey Trot exemplifies the joy and unity that can be found even in wet weather. With the promise of camaraderie and a festive atmosphere, this year’s event is sure to be memorable, regardless of the rain.