Chasing a turkey on Thanksgiving Day can help provide a better Christmas for thousands of Onslow
children and their families. A Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day will let families and individuals have a great
event before their Thanksgiving meal and support the Onslow Christmas Cheer program.
For more than 50 years, the Onslow Christmas Cheer has been providing toys, food, and other items for
families in need. On average, Christmas Cheer helps about 2,000 families each year. To respect their
dignity, they are given a ‘shopping experience’ to select items for their children.
Some of the funds to buy the 10,000 toys needed for Christmas will come from the Inaugural Onslow
Community Outreach Turkey Trot and Giblet 1-Miler, set to take place on Thanksgiving Day (November 28,
2024). This festive event, designed for runners, walkers, and or waddlers of all ages and abilities.
“We are thrilled to bring the inaugural Turkey Trot and Giblet 1-Miler to our community this
year! This event is a wonderful way for families and friends to come together, stay active,
and celebrate the season while supporting a cause that truly makes a difference. Every
step taken during the race helps us bring joy and hope to families in need through our
Christmas Cheer program, and we couldn’t be more excited to see our community rally
together for this important cause,” said Everett Vaughn, Onslow Community Outreach
Event Coordinator, and a longtime Christmas Cheer volunteer.
The Turkey Trot, a 5K (3.1 mile) race, and the Giblet 1-Miler, a shorter fun run, will kick off at 8:30AM at
Jacksonville Commons Park (100 Recreation Circle, Jacksonville, NC). Participants are encouraged to
don their most creative Thanksgiving-themed costumes, adding to the fun and festive atmosphere.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner looking to set a new personal record or just want to enjoy a leisurely
walk with family and friends, there’s a place for you in this community celebration.
“The best part is you can run the race and still be home in time to celebrate with family and friends. For
those who are out of town or don’t want to run Thanksgiving Morning, there is a 5K virtual option where
runners can run when and where they chose,” added Vaughn.
As a testament to their dedication and support of our community, each runner who completes the course
will receive a keepsake 3.5” die-cast masterpiece. The intricate design captures the spirit of the race and
the joy of the season, making it a perfect keepsake to celebrate their achievement.
Registration is open! https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Jacksonville/OCOTurkeyTrot
The Turkey Trot 5K & Giblet 1-Miler is presented by: C&S Paint Center, and Comfort Heating & Cooling,
Inc. Sponsored by: Amy Goss of Guild Mortgage, Civic Cubs of Jacksonville (Civitan, Kiwanis, Rotary),
Marine Chevrolet, and DJ Laura.