Alexandria Turkey Trot Goes Virtual In 2020

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Runners won't line up on Thanksgiving morning for the Alexandria Turkey Trot this year, but the tradition will go on. The 45th annual Turkey Trot will happen virtually, meaning participants can complete the walk or run any time between Nov. 21 and 29.

The Alexandria Turkey Trot typically draws nearly 6,000 participants on Thanksgiving morning, including some of the East Coast's fastest elite runners. Normally, the race happens on a flat route in Del Ray, but this year, participants can complete a five-mile run or walk at a location of their choice between Nov. 21 and 29. After completing the run or walk, participants will log their race times online.

The event is a major fundraiser and food drive for ALIVE, a nonprofit serving people in need in Alexandria through food distribution and other assistance. In 2019, the Turkey Trot raised over $6,000 for ALIVE and collected over 2,000 pounds of food to be donated. The Turkey Trot is also the primary fundraiser for the Del Ray Business Association, which hosts a variety of community events throughout the year.

"The Alexandria community is known for its tremendous community spirit and deep generosity. With so many of our small businesses and so many of our neighbors struggling, this year's Trot is more important than ever," said Del Ray Business Association president Sue Kovalsky in a statement. "We look forward to seeing neighbors, dogs, and generations of families running together throughout Thanksgiving week."

Participants are encouraged to donate nonperishable food items for ALIVE from Nov. 21 to 29. Needed items include one-pound bags of rice; one-pound bags of dried beans; macaroni and cheese boxes; canned vegetable, soup and fruit (14-15 oz.); canned tuna; canned chicken; baking mixes (such as Bisquick, 5-7 oz.); and peanut butter. From Nov. 21 to 29, donations can be dropped off in bins outside The Dog Store (2301 Mount Vernon Avenue), Waxing the City (2727 Mount Vernon Avenue), Del Ray Psych & Wellness (1900 Mount Vernon Avenue), Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap (401 East Braddock Road), and the front porches of 403 East Custis Avenue and 110 East Del Ray Ave. Donation bins will also be outside The Del Ray Farmers’ Market on Nov. 21 and Nov. 28 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The event is sponsored by the Del Ray Business Association and DC Road Runners. For more information on the race and to register and reserve a commemorative 2020 t-shirt, visit www.alexandriaturkeytrot.com.