You'll have to be an early bird on Turkey Day to take part in these pre-feast charity runs.
If you're up and at 'em in time this morning, here's what you need to know.
* Grateful Gobbler Walk: Now in its 17th year, this event is expected to draw more than 4,000 participants to Coolidge Park. The family fun event will begin promptly at 8 a.m. All proceeds go to the Maclellan Shelter for Families at the Chattanooga Community Kitchen. The first of its kind in Chattanooga, the emergency shelter has 13 units with 64 beds, providing a stable place for families to remain together while they search for permanent housing solutions.
On-site registration is from 6 to 7:45 a.m. Cost to participate is $25 for walkers/runners 13 year and older and $10 for ages 12 and younger. If you're out of town or sleeping in, you can still donate as a Virtual or Sleep Walker for $15.
For more, go to www.gratefulgobblerwalk.org.
* Turkey Trot: Race-day registration begins at 7 a.m. at Sportsbarn East, 6148 Lee Highway. Overflow parking is available at Sam's Club, 6101 Lee Highway.
The first events, a 1-mile fun run and Kiddie K (six-tenths of a mile for ages 12 and under) start at 8:30 a.m. A 3-mile fun walk begins at 8:45 a.m. and the 8K race is at 9 a.m. Day-of registration fees are $35 for the 8K, $25 for the other events.
For more, visit www.sportsbarn.net.
* Stuffing Strut: This fourth annual 5K run/walk starts at 8 a.m. at Chester Frost Park. This year's race will benefit the Northside Neighborhood House, Jim Wilson Fund at Soddy-Daisy Middle School, Soddy-Daisy Food Bank and the Dallas Bay Volunteer Firefighters Fund.
Cost is $30 for ages 13 and older, $10 for ages 12 and younger (junior walkers may participate for free with a registered adult). A donation of canned goods is also requested.
Find out more at www.stuffingstrut.com.
* Turkey Trail Trot: This event in Dalton, Ga., offers the choice of a 5-mile run or 1-mile run/walk at Raisin Woods Bike Park, 145 Raisin Way. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m., and the race is at 8 a.m.
Find out more at www.mydprd.com.