Explore these popular ‘burbs one turkey trot at a time
Thanksgiving in the suburbs isn’t just about the turkey — it’s about the parades, the trots, and that one bakery where you’ll stand in line at dawn for the perfect pie. Across Westchester, Connecticut, Long Island, and New Jersey, these towns take fall traditions seriously. Lace up, bundle up, and bring your appetite — here are some of the best Thanksgiving towns in the suburbs, where the holiday spirit really struts its stuff.
Fairfield, CT
Fairfield’s Turkey Trot 5-Miler sells out every year for good reason. The course winds through the beach neighborhood, giving runners ocean views and that crisp, coastal air that makes you feel like you’ve earned your second slice of pie. Post-run, head to Firehouse Deli or Las Vetas Lounge for breakfast sandwiches and bragging rights.
Greenwich, CT
Greenwich celebrates Thanksgiving with tradition and togetherness. The Greenwich Alliance for Education Turkey Trot brings families and runners together at Arch Street Teen Center, looping through picturesque Bruce Park. After the race, locals head to favorite bakeries like Black Forest Pastry Shop or By the Way Bakery (a gluten- and dairy-free gem) to pick up pies for the big day, while the Avenue buzzes with early holiday shoppers and perfectly curated window displays.
Stamford, CT
Before the turkey hits the oven, Stamford hosts one of New England’s biggest pre-holiday spectacles: the Downtown Parade Spectacular. giant balloons, Broadway performers, and marching bands take over Bedford Street the Sunday before Thanksgiving, drawing tens of thousands downtown. The result is pure hometown excitement —a vibrant, family-friendly celebration that kicks off the holiday season in true Stamfod style. It’s easy to see why this is considered one of the best Thanksgiving towns in the suburbs, especially for families who love classic fall traditions.
Mamaroneck, NY
Mamaroneck’s Turkey Trot and Gobbler Race is a long-standing local favorite — now in its 59th year. Hosted by the Village Parks and Recreation Department, the event brings runners, families, and plenty of cheer to Harbor Island Park. The 1-mile Gobbler Race kicks things off before the main 5K takes over the waterfront course, offering crisp air, scenic Sound views, and that unmistakable small-town energy. Every participant earns a t-shirt and medal, plus serious bragging rights.
New Rochelle, NY
Forget the Macy’s Parade — Westchester has its own. The New Rochelle Thanksgiving Parade, celebrating over 60 years, is one of the largest in the state. The route along North Avenue transforms into a festive corridor of giant balloons, marching bands, and costumed performers. The morning kicks off with a pancake breakfast and wraps up with local cheer squads, vintage cars, and a Grand Marshal waving from a convertible. It’s pure hometown pageantry — the kind that pairs perfectly with warm apple cider and a side of nostalgia. With traditions that draw crowds year after year, this spot continues to rank among the best Thanksgiving towns in the suburbs for festive weekend plans.
Irvington, NY
Thanksgiving festivities in Irvington kick off early with the Peter K. Oley Turkey Trot, held the Sunday before the holiday. Named for the village’s legendary track coach, the race winds through downtown and along the Hudson, bringing neighbors together for a morning of fun, fitness, and community spirit. After the run, locals make a beeline for Red Barn Bakery, where organic, small-batch pies, especially the pumpkin and pecan, are the first to sell out for Thanksgiving.
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Chatham, NJ
In Chatham, Thanksgiving morning starts with the Trot the Manor Turkey Trot, a beloved community run winding through the tree-lined streets of the Wickham Woods neighborhood. Families, strollers, and serious runners all join in — some in full turkey gear — for a fun, festive start to the holiday. The race supports first responders and ends with neighbors cheering, coffee in hand, as the first finishers cross the line. It’s suburban Thanksgiving at its best: energetic, spirited, and full of heart.
Glen Rock, NJ
Kick off your Thanksgiving morning at tradition’s pace with the Racefaster Thanksgiving Day Run. Held annually on the 5K course that winds through quiet, tree-lined streets, the event starts at 9:00 a.m. at the Glen Rock Pool. A Kids Fun Run follows at 9:45 a.m., making this a true community event for all ages. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or just want to get a jump start on the holiday spirit, it’s a local favorite that combines fitness, fun, and neighborhood energy.
Montclair, NJ
Montclair’s Ashenfelter 8K Classic is one of North Jersey’s biggest Thanksgiving races, drawing runners from across the region. The scenic suburban route, named after Olympian Horace Ashenfelter, ends right in Montclair Center — where you can follow your run with a latte at Paper Plane Coffee Co. and a stop at Montclair Bread Company, known for its maple bacon doughnuts.
Garden City, NY
The Garden City Turkey Trot is a Long Island institution — a five-mile run that’s been going strong for over 40 years. The flat, scenic route draws thousands, including entire families in matching “Team Turkey” shirts. Afterward, runners and spectators hit Seventh Street Café or Bagel Man for coffee and bagels, and locals start lining up at Buttercooky Bakery in nearby Manhasset for their Thanksgiving pie orders.
Rockville Centre, NY
Rockville Centre does Thanksgiving like it does everything — with charm and community spirit. The RVC Turkey Trot, benefitting local charities, is followed by live music and a mini fall festival at the village green. While you’re here, head to Front Street Bakery for pies that rival any homemade version (pro tip: get there early — their pumpkin cheesecake sells out fast).
Ready for the Big Day?
From Stamford’s Broadway-worthy balloons to Garden City’s early-morning sprint, these suburbs know that Thanksgiving isn’t just about the feast, it’s about the feeling. From the cool air to cheers from the turkey trot sidelines to the amazing smells from local bakeries, this is what Thanksgiving is all about. Whether you’re running, cheering, or just eating your way through the long weekend, these towns truly are the best Thanksgiving towns in the suburbs, and the perfect places to kick off the holiday season.
For more insights, visit Suburban Jungle’s New York City suburbs section and the New York City blog page on our website.
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