This has to be my 6th year participating in the Edison Park Turkey Trot and once again, they did not disappoint. It's a local race, but still has a very strong turnout as many families make it a Thanksgiving tradition.

Packet: You'll receive some coupons, long sleeve shirt and a bib. To keep the prices low, the race isn't chip timed, so it's best to bring your own watch if you're concerned with exact time. The long sleeve is nothing special, just cotton, not a dry-fit. It didn't bug me since I'd rather pay less for a race then more for a shirt. Can't complain much when the entry feee is only $20, very rare to find in the Chicago area.

Course: Nice, flat course that takes you through Edison Park's main street (Northwest Highway) and then loops through the more residential area. I've been at races where locals aren't happy with a race on their streets, but the EP Turkey Trot committee does a good job of encouraging locals to come out and cheer by awarding the "best cheering house on the block". Come to think of it, I can't think of any 5k I've ever been to with that much crowd support!

Aid stations and post-race celebration: I don't recall any aid stations on the course, but there is plenty of water and refreshments at the finish. The EP Turkey Trot has the best spread of snacks compared to any 5k I've been too. The local bakeries donate tons of sweet goods, it's hard to hold off and pace yourself for the turkey and pumpkin pie later that night. There's usually always a big coffee and hot cocoa truck too.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a low-cost, no-frills fun turkey trot the morning of Thanksgiving!