Turkey Trot Tailgate
The Fun After the Run
Imagine a cozy fall day filled with the scent of apple cider, the crunch of autumn leaves, and the laughter of family and friends, fresh from a brisk run to kick off the holiday. That’s the Turkey Trot Tailgate!
After crossing the finish line, head over to our celebration of the day featuring delicious treats, fun photo ops, and exciting activities for kids of all ages. It’s the ideal place to relax, refuel, and soak up the Thanksgiving spirit.
Pre-Race
Before your run, the Turkey Trot Tailgate will be open for race morning packet pickup, gear check, food donation drop offs, and Plymouth Rock Ramble (Kids Race) registration – pending availability. You’ll also notice the giant Turkey Tom inflatable ready to be your picture perfect backdrop. Feel free to snag a pic now to avoid the long line post-race.
Traditional Tailgate Activities
Nothing goes better with fall and tailgating than cornhole and football. Within the Turkey Trot Tailgate area, sections for both activities will be open for anyone to stop by and see if they’re the best at playing cornhole or throwing that tight spiral through the tires.
Photo Opportunities
After crossing the finish line you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture memories for the gram. Make a stop by one of our multiple event branded backdrops, the giant Turkey Tom inflatable, or Turkey Tom himself for some great plandid shots!
Kids Zone
Keep your kiddos entertained by visiting the Kids Zone. This interactive area will have arts and crafts, a pumpkin painting station, coloring books, and more.
Vendors & Sponsors
In addition to all the activities listed above, our event sponsors and vendors are planning to enhance your experience by offering product samples and chances to win amazing prizes. Be sure to check out these awesome activations after crossing the finish line!
Costume Contest
Get ready to strut your stuff in style! We’re hosting a fun and festive Thanksgiving-themed costume contest at this year’s Life Time Turkey Trot Chicago. Dress as anything from a turkey to a cornucopia, we want to see your creative costumes! Top costumes (individual or group) will receive a special prize pack so let your creativity shine. Judging will take place on the Turkey Trot Tailgate stage, after the awards ceremony.
Women’s Resource Area
A dedicated Women’s Resource Tent will be available at all of our running events. This space, located in Butler Field near the start/finish line, will include the following amenities:
- Lactation Support: Enjoy a private space for pumping or breastfeeding. We’ll provide manual pumps (but if you want to bring your own, we’ll have power if you need it), storage bags, sanitizing wipes, and a cooler with ice for storage during your race.
- Feminine Care: We’ll have feminine care products, hair ties, and deodorant available for your convenience.
- Staff Support: The tent will be staffed at all times to assist you.
Located close to the start/finish line for convenient access, the Women’s Resource Tent can be your before and after race refuge when needs arise. At the Spring Half, the tent will be in the southeast corner of the Finish Festival in Butler Field, just a hop, skip, and a jump from the start/finish.
We want to ensure that all athletes have an amazing running experience this spring!