This year was the 32nd annual Turkey Trot which is the 2nd largest race in Michigan and most popular holiday race. It is also followed by America’s Thanksgiving Parade.

“I’m always really excited to do the Turkey Trot because me and my family go down there and meet other runners and watch the parade afterwards,” junior Olivia Metty said.

There were more than 20,000 registered runners and 500 volunteers that assisted in the both the race and parade. Of them, several of school’s students such as the track and field kids attended and participated the festive events.

“I love meeting new people who are just as dedicated and interested in racing as I am as well as people who are just there for something fun to do with their friends and family,” senior Christ VanCoillie said.

The race spanned over two days: Nov. 26 and Nov. 27 with the parade as the final kicker on Thursday. The expo featured exhibitors offering merchandise like clothing, food and technology.

“I love attending races and other activities downtown, especially during the holidays because everyone is in a positive mood and they’re just a lot of fun,” VanCoillie said.

The Expo on Thanksgiving morning started with packet pickup and sign-in for the runners which led into gear check and moved right into the race. After the race, there was an a family reunion area in which the runners could group back together with their families before moving on the costume contest. Before the televised viewing of the parade, there was an arrangement of post-race food they could choose from.

“I really liked that they offered drinks and food for the runners,” Metty said. “because it made it feel welcoming and was nice after accomplishing the race.”