On Hilton Head Island, SC, Thanksgiving morning begins long before the feast—with the steady rhythm of running shoes on pavement. For decades, the Turkey Trots here have become more than just races: they are a way for people of all ages to come together, celebrate gratitude, and support their community.
This isn’t just about fitness. Over the years, Hilton Head’s Thanksgiving runs have woven themselves into the fabric of the island’s holiday traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or walking with young kids, crossing that starting line on a crisp November morning has become an act of connection and generosity.
At their heart, these runs are far more than pre-feast workouts—they are a shared experience, a way for locals to set a tone of giving, and a meaningful way to start Thanksgiving Day.
The Roots of the Turkey Trot Tradition
Turkey trots are a hallmark of Thanksgiving across the United States. The term “turkey trot” usually refers to a footrace held on or around the holiday. In many places, the tradition grew out of a desire to burn off some energy before indulging in the holiday meal, while also turning the event into a charity boost. The race often takes the form of a 5K or similar fun run, sometimes with runners dressing up in turkey-themed outfits.
On Hilton Head Island, the Turkey Trot has been organized by Island Recreation for decades. The Island Recreation Association’s Turkey Trot 5K is now in its 37th year, making it a longstanding fixture of the holiday.
Coming Together Across Generations
One of the most heartwarming features of the Hilton Head runs is how many families make it an annual ritual. From grandparents jogging with grandkids to toddlers in strollers, the Turkey Trot 5K accommodates every pace and every age.
Because the course is fairly accessible—even designed to allow strollers—parents often bring their youngest along. After the race, many participants linger, swapping stories and celebrating with coffee or breakfast, turning what starts as a neighborhood run into a friendly gathering.
In addition, some residents of Hilton Head Plantation reflect the event in their community newsletter, noting early-morning road closures but emphasizing how much they value the shared spirit.
Running With Purpose and Heart
The Turkey Trots on Hilton Head go beyond fun: they make a real difference in the lives of people here. A core partner in the race is The Deep Well Project, a local food pantry initiative. Participants are asked to bring canned or nonperishable food items during packet pickup or on race day—a simple but powerful way for runners to give thanks by giving back.
Meanwhile, the Thanksgiving Turtle Trot, a separate 5K held along the beach in Palmetto Dunes, channels its proceeds to PD Cares, a community fund dedicated to enhancing the lives of youth and preserving the island’s environment. Since its start, the Turtle Trot has contributed meaningful grants to nonprofits and scholarships.
Together, these runs reflect a powerful mix of physical activity, neighborhood camaraderie, and charitable purpose.
A Scenic and Memorable Course
The Island Rec’s Turkey Trot begins in the Boathouse parking lot and winds through Hilton Head Plantation, providing runners with both coastal and residential views. That loop brings participants back to where they started—creating a sense of coming home as they cross the finish line.
Meanwhile, the Turtle Trot offers a very different terrain: runners traverse a five-kilometer stretch along the hard-packed beaches of Palmetto Dunes. The sound of waves and the feel of sand underfoot make it a uniquely Lowcountry experience.
What’s more, the Turkey Trot route has evolved over time. In past editions, the course through Hilton Head Plantation was adjusted to reduce traffic disruptions and make the streets safer for participants.
Colorful Characters and Lighthearted Moments
One of the most entertaining aspects of the Hilton Head runs is the fun people bring along. It’s not uncommon to see runners wearing turkey hats, bright feathers, or other Thanksgiving-themed gear—some to make people smile. Locals say the costume contest and festive outfits add energy that rivals that of the serious runners.
Because the race encourages all ages and paces, there’s often a hearty mix: early birds sprinting for a personal time, parents strolling with toddlers, and older runners enjoying the route. At the finish, many hang out for the afterparty—laughing about who tripped, who came in last or who pulled off the most creative costume.
Over the years, there have been moments of lighthearted competition and casual storytelling: runners talking about how they’ve run the race every year since their children were born, or how they once forgot their running shoes and finished in flip-flops.
Building a Lasting Holiday Legacy
Through all its runners, costumes, and food donations, Hilton Head’s Turkey Trot tradition has become more than just a footrace. It’s a way for the community to express gratitude, connect with neighbors, and support causes that matter. Each year, people carry forward a legacy of generosity and active celebration, making the morning run just as important as the holiday meal.
For longtime participants, the trot is woven into family lore: children who first ran it as toddlers now race beside parents or grandparents, and newcomers are welcomed into a tradition that values kindness as much as endurance.
Whether you’re running to challenge yourself, walking with friends, or simply starting your Thanksgiving Day with a sense of purpose, Hilton Head’s Turkey Trots continue to reflect the warmth and spirit of this coastal community.
What began as a simple 5K has grown into a meaningful Thanksgiving tradition on Hilton Head Island, SC. The Turkey Trots are more than runs—they are celebrations of community, giving, and gratitude.
Families return year after year, often carrying on the tradition across generations. Their footsteps amplify goodwill, and the food collected helps feed neighbors who need support most.
In the end, these races do more than get hearts pumping—they bring people together, remind them of their shared humanity, and set a tone of generosity for the holiday that follows.
Sources: hiltonheadchamber.org, pdpoa.org, hiltonheadisland-sc.townsites.org, en.wikipedia.org, islandreccenter.org, hiltonheadisland.org
Header Image Source: hiltonheadisland.org
