A Fun Run, Walk & Trot for a Great Cause
Kick off your Thanksgiving morning with movement, community, and a meaningful mission! Join us for the Mercer Island Bluebirds Turkey Trot, a family-friendly run/walk supporting the Mercer Island Bluebirds Cross Country Team Scholarship Fund.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or simply looking to get outside before the big feast, this event is the perfect way to start your holiday.
Event Details
2025 Bluebirds Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 27th, 2025
1.6 mile or 5k
8:30 warm-up
9:00 start
Dogs & Strollers welcome
Location: Luther Burbank Park
Park at the south lot located at the corner of SE 26th St. and 84th Ave SE, just off Exit 7 for Island Crest Way. Meet at the Source Landform sculpture next to the swimming beach.
Schedule:
Warm-Up: 8:30 AM
Run / Walk / Trott Begins: 9:00 AM
Course Options:
1 Loop — 1.6 miles
2 Loops — 5k
Dogs and strollers are absolutely welcome—this is truly a community trot!
Prizes:
Age group prizes for both boys and girls: 6 & under (1 Loop), 7/8, 9/10, 11/12, 13/14, Open and 18+ Maybe it will be a pie? Maybe it will be a chocolate turkey? Run fast and see! There are 100 ducky awards for the first 100 across the line.
Suggested Donation
This event is free and open to all, but if you’re able, we encourage a suggested donation of $10 to support the scholarship fund.
💙 100% of all donations go directly to the athletes through the Bluebirds Scholarship Fund.
The Bluebirds scholarship fund helps young athletes from our running club participate in major out-of-town meets by easing the burden of travel costs like airfare and hotels, ensuring every child can compete—no matter their family’s financial situation.
Please note: Donations are not tax deductible.
Venmo: @desireeflickerberry
Your generosity helps support local young runners who work hard all season long!
Fun Extras!
To make the morning even more festive, we’ll have:
🎶 Music to keep the energy high
☕ Hot cocoa to stay cozy
🦆 Participation ducky awards for everyone who trots, walks, or runs!
Because who doesn’t love a little extra fun with their Turkey Trot?
Why Join the Turkey Trot?
Thanksgiving is a day of gratitude and togetherness—and what better way to celebrate than by moving your body and giving back?
The Bluebirds Turkey Trot is:
🥾 Low-key and fun:
No bibs, no timers, no pressure. Just a beautiful fall morning and a great group of people.
*we will have timers, but these will be volunteers. Be ready to time yourself*
🏅 For a meaningful cause:
Your participation supports the Bluebirds Cross Country Team Scholarship Fund, helping young athletes pursue their goals.
🐕 Family-friendly:
Kids, dogs, strollers… everyone is invited to join the fun!
🔥 A healthy start before the feast:
Get your steps in before settling in for stuffing, pie, and all your holiday favorites.
Bring your family, friends, and furry companions—and don’t forget your holiday spirit! This simple, joyful community gathering is a wonderful way to support local athletes and kick off Thanksgiving with purpose.
Bundle up, meet us by the sculpture, grab a cup of cocoa, and let’s trot into the holiday together.
COURSE MAP:
Bluebirds Big Loop – MapMyRun https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6653227841/
*** The Cummins family proudly runs and supports the Mercer Island Bluebirds—helping our kids, our parents, and our community pursue Gold Medal Health together. ***
