Community

Berkeley Heights VFW 5K Turkey Trot returns Nov. 26

By Summit Area News staff · October 21, 2026 · 1 min read

Race bib pinned to a shirt beside running shoes and a small turkey figurine. — A race bib, running shoes, and a small turkey figurine — the hallmarks of a Thanksgiving Day 5K. AI-generated illustration / Surround Sound Media

The Gobble & Go 5K Turkey Trot returns to Berkeley Heights on Thursday, Nov. 26, with proceeds benefiting the Berkeley Heights VFW and local veterans.

The township announced the race on Instagram and X, with registration open through the event's RunSignUp page. Participants who want a race T-shirt must sign up by Nov. 12.

The event is in its third year. In its first two years, the race raised more than $22,000 for the Berkeley Heights Volunteer Rescue Squad and drew nearly 500 registered participants in 2025 alone, according to the registration page. This year's proceeds shift to the VFW.

A new 5K course is planned, according to the township's Instagram post, with route details still to come. The race also features a Thanksgiving-themed costume contest with prizes.

Registration is open.

Packet pickup runs from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 25, at Berkeley Heights Town Hall, 29 Park Ave. Race-day pickup is available from 8 to 8:45 a.m. The registration page encourages early pickup.

Participants can register or walk. No registration fee was listed in the township's announcement.

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Jessica Henry

Jessica Henry

News Producer

Jessica is an Emmy-nominated journalist and newsroom leader with a passion for impactful storytelling. Her work has spanned both local and national media, including television news and podcast production. Throughout her career, she has led news teams across the Northeast, overseeing coverage of major breaking news events, severe weather, and high-profile investigations, while helping shape content that reached audiences across local and national platforms. She believes local journalism is the heartbeat of every community, keeping residents informed and connected when it matters most. Now based in Texas, Jessica is embracing life with her husband and newborn son while continuing her love of storytelling. Away from work, she enjoys family time on the boat, beach days, and exploring the charm of coastal towns and seaside shops.

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