DID YOU KNOW?

Unlike many races, who partner with a charity and donate a portion of their proceeds, Montlake Turkey Trot is actually owned by The University District Food Bank and serves as it's second largest annual fundraiser. So every dollar beyond operating costs goes directly back into your local community and helps feed those in need.

We'd love to make it Number 1 -- and we think we can do it with your help! Runners, walkers and neighbors are often potent contributors to positivity and we believe that is the heart and soul of this race.

So, come gobble up the fun at the 9th Annual Montlake Turkey Trot and Kids Run,

A University District Food Bank Fundraiser

This year’s event is more important than ever, as every step and stride you take directly supports the Food Bank's efforts to feed our community amidst rising costs.

Bring your family and friends to run, jog, or walk through the stunning Washington Park Arboretum on the traditional lands of the Coast Salish peoples. Whether you celebrate Thanksgiving or simply want to join for the joy of community, everyone is welcome to partake in this fun and meaningful event!

As you navigate the course, expect to be surrounded by the Arboretum’s breathtaking natural beauty. The path meanders beneath towering, centuries-old trees draped in fall foliage, their leaves glowing gold, crimson, and orange in the crisp morning light. The gentle curves of the trail offer glimpses of serene ponds, winding creeks, and open fields, all backdropped by the grandeur of the Pacific Northwest. Each step brings you deeper into this oasis of nature, making the run or walk an experience for all the senses.

A huge shout-out to our Presenting Sponsor, Windermere Midtown! As a leader in Seattle’s real estate market, Windermere Midtown is known for not only finding homes for families but also creating lasting connections within the community. Their support is helping this Turkey Trot make a larger impact than ever, ensuring we can help those in need through the University District Food Bank. We are grateful for their commitment and generosity in making this event a success.

Lastly, a special thank you to the Montlake Community Club, which originally started this race and has been a vital part of the neighborhood for over a century. By fostering community engagement, supporting local initiatives, and enhancing the quality of life in Montlake, they have laid a foundation for events like the Turkey Trot to flourish. Their ongoing support and dedication have allowed the race to grow and continue giving back to the local community and beyond!

Please note: There are no dogs allowed for safety and due to insurance stipulations. Even if a dog is normally great around other pets and kids, running in a crowded race environment with other kids and animals can often illicit unusual responses from animals. Please leave your furry friends at home for this event.

Strollers are welcome, but we do ask that you start in the back of the race corral so runners who are participating for a competitive time don't risk injury trying to get past the moving wheels. Please also note that the trails within the arboretum can be muddy and have damp plant debris on them, so if you plan to use a stroller, we recommend one that is easily used over various path surfaces, and make sure your stroller's passenger is suited for the chilly, rainy weather that is common this time of year and well secured if you're planning on keeping a brisk pace.

 

WANT TO KNOW WHERE YOUR RACE DOLLARS GO?

WE'D LOVE TO SHARE SOME STATS FROM THE WORK THE UNIVERSITY DISTRICT FOOD BANK DOES

 

For nearly 40 years, the University District Food Bank has been essential to Northeast Seattle, providing food security to thousands of families. With inflation driving costs to new highs, community support through events like the Montlake Turkey Trot has become crucial to sustaining these services. The Food Bank currently supports 109,000 households (253,000 individuals) annually and distributes over 3.4 million pounds of food—reaching infants, children, adults, and seniors across the area. Nearly 25% of clients are unsheltered, making immediate access to nutritious food all the more vital.

Each week, programs like Home Delivery serve 550 households, while the Backpack Program partners with 18 local schools to provide meals for almost 1,000 children. Off-site locations, including Mercy Magnuson Place and North Seattle College, offer groceries to another 400 households weekly. With an annual food budget of $1.5 million—double what it was two years ago. The Food Bank relies on events like the Turkey Trot to maintain these essential programs. It serves as the second largest annual fundraiser.

Supporting the Turkey Trot means more than joining a race, it’s a way for local businesses and community members to help neighbors in need while gaining visibility through the Food Bank’s e-newsletter (8,000 subscribers) and print newsletter (11,000 households), boosting each other while making a difference. Together, let’s make this year’s Trot the most impactful yet!