Staten Island Hosts 76th Lou Marli Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving

The annual Lou Marli/Bill Welsh Turkey Trot returns for its 76th edition on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025. Starting at 8 a.m. at Midland Beach, this popular community event invites participants of all ages to join in a festive celebration of health and charity.

Organized by the Brighton Kiwanis, the Turkey Trot is unique as it does not require an entry fee. Instead, runners are encouraged to bring a donation of non-perishable food items, which will be distributed to local food banks on the North Shore. This initiative highlights the race’s commitment to supporting those in need during the holiday season.

Children will have the opportunity to participate in various races, starting with the youngest competitors at 8 a.m. for the 50-meter dash for ages six and under. The schedule continues with races for older children: a 400-meter race for ages 7-10 at 8:15 a.m., an 800-meter race for ages 11-12 at 8:30 a.m., and a 1-mile run for ages 13-14 at 8:45 a.m.

Adult races will kick off at 9 a.m. for women, followed by the men’s races at 9:45 a.m. for those aged 40 and over, and at 10:30 a.m. for men aged 39 and under.

For further information about the event, interested participants can reach out to race director Steve Zimmermann at 917-957-7487 or via email at [email protected]. As the race approaches, organizers encourage everyone to join in and make this Thanksgiving a memorable occasion by supporting local families in need while enjoying a morning of fitness and community spirit.