The Houston Thanksgiving tradition known as the BakerRipley Turkey Trot has officially come to an end after 30 consecutive years. The beloved annual 5K, 10K and kids’ race held on Thanksgiving morning was discontinued by organizers BakerRipley, disappointing legions of local families and runners.
BakerRipley, a Houston-based nonprofit focused on community development, announced in late September 2023 that it has decided to cancel the Turkey Trot indefinitely The organization cited a desire to reallocate resources and refocus efforts more closely aligned with its core mission and evolving community needs.
While disappointing to many Houstonians who saw the Turkey Trot as a cherished tradition, the cancellation did not come entirely as a surprise. Participation in the event had declined in recent years, and the costs associated with organizing the massive race had escalated.
A Look Back at 30 Years of Racing
The Houston Turkey Trot first kicked off back in 1992, starting out small before quickly growing into the largest Thanksgiving Day run in Houston. For many local families spending the holiday morning running through downtown along with thousands of others before feasting became an unmissable annual ritual.
At its peak the Turkey Trot drew over 10,000 participants from casual runners to elite racers. Even as participation dwindled to around 6,000 in recent years the race still offered a festive backdrop for the holiday and kickstarted many people’s Thanksgiving days on an active note.
In its three decade run, the event became a Thanksgiving staple, expanding to offer live music, costume contests, plenty of turkey-themed fun, and of course a rewarding feeling of accomplishment for runners and walkers crossing the finish line.
BakerRipley took over management of the race in 2011 after having served as title sponsor in the preceding years. The nonprofit continued to organize and manage the massive logistical undertaking of the Turkey Trot up through its final running in November 2022.
Why the Sudden Cancellation?
In announcing the decision to cancel the 2023 race and discontinue the event moving forward, BakerRipley indicated that several factors were at play:
- Declining participation numbers in recent years
- Increasing costs to manage the large event
- Desire to re-allocate resources to better align with core community mission
It appears the organization ultimately felt the Turkey Trot was no longer the best use of its limited resources and capacity. As a nonprofit aiming to maximize its impact on the community, putting on a road race likely seemed less and less essential compared to other initiatives.
While certainly disappointing to loyal trotters, most will agree BakerRipley providing vital services to Houstonians in need is far more important than continuing an annual race.
What This Means for Houston’s Running Community
The cancellation of the flagship Houston Turkey Trot leaves a noticeable gap for local runners during a season filled with turkey trots across the country. No other Thanksgiving Day races currently exist within Houston city limits.
Nearby communities like Clear Lake, Pearland, Lake Jackson, and The Woodlands still host turkey trots on Thanksgiving morning, but these require more extensive travel for Houston residents. Some other local nonprofits may organize a replacement event in Houston in future years.
For 2023 at least, Houston runners will need to lace up their shoes and participate in turkey trots in the surrounding suburbs should they want to continue the tradition this holiday season.
Looking to the Future
While the Turkey Trot chapter has closed, BakerRipley emphasized its commitment to innovating new ways to bring the community together around their mission of empowerment and opportunity for all Houstonians.
Though the trot will be dearly missed by many, BakerRipley’s essential work improving lives across greater Houston ultimately takes priority. The organization has given no indication that it plans to bring back the trot down the line.
After 30 successful years as a Thanksgiving fixture, the Turkey Trot has cemented its legacy as a treasured Houston tradition for generations of families. Its spirit will live on even if the actual event has come to an end.
This Thanksgiving and beyond, Houstonians can look to other local turkey trots nearby to keep the spirit alive. And BakerRipley will continue its critical work serving the community – even if that no longer involves organizing a massive annual road race.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Houston Turkey Trot begin?
The Houston Turkey Trot first took place in 1992. It celebrated its 30th anniversary race in November 2022 before being discontinued.
How many runners participated at its peak?
In its heyday, the Turkey Trot drew over 10,000 participants annually. More recently, participation dropped to around 6,000 runners and walkers.
Who organized the Turkey Trot?
BakerRipley, a Houston-based community nonprofit, managed and organized the race from 2011 through 2022 after previously serving as title sponsor.
What other Houston-area turkey trots still exist?
Nearby turkey trots are held in Clear Lake, Pearland, Lake Jackson, and The Woodlands. These events continue despite the Houston trot cancellation.
What is BakerRipley’s mission as an organization?
BakerRipley, formerly Neighborhood Centers, aims to empower Houstonians through education, health services, and community-building initiatives.
Your favorite Thanksgiving Day running tradition continues.
Multiple race types are available, including a 10K Run/Walk, 5K Run/Walk, Kids Run , and a Virtual choice.
