Rocket City Times

Madison and Huntsville skip the traditional Thanksgiving parade scene, but don’t worry about missing out on holiday fun. These Alabama cities have created their own memorable Thanksgiving morning traditions that get the whole family moving before the turkey hits the table.

Run Off Those Future Calories

The 32nd Annual Turkey Trot 5K has become Huntsville’s premier Thanksgiving morning event, bringing together families, friends, and runners of all ages at Spragins Hall on November 27, 2025. This beloved tradition benefits Crisis Services of North Alabama, supporting 24/7 crisis counseling and emergency domestic violence services. The race kicks off at 8:00 AM, giving you plenty of time to burn calories before earning them back at dinner. Registration opens early, with packet pickup available at Fleet Feet locations in both Madison and Huntsville the days before Thanksgiving. Got little ones? The Tiny Tot Turkey Trot offers a free 100 yard dash for kids five and under, where they can race against Tina the Turkey, the event’s hilariously oversized mascot.

For theater lovers, the Theatre Turkey Trot provides another festive option on Thanksgiving morning, featuring both a 5K and a one mile fun run with prizes for participants.

Nature’s Thanksgiving Table

The 30th Annual Thanksgiving Day Hike at Monte Sano Nature Preserve offers a quieter way to celebrate the holiday. This guided walk through the preserve has been uniting nature enthusiasts for three decades, starting at 9:00 AM on Thanksgiving morning. Hikers can choose between two routes: a shorter 1.75 mile moderate trail or a longer 3.25 mile trek with elevation changes. The Three Caves Trailhead serves as the starting point this year, and dogs on leashes are welcome to join the adventure. Bring your water bottle and camera to capture the beautiful mountain scenery before heading home to feast.

Community at the Table

Madison showcased its community spirit earlier in the season with Gather Madison at Homeplace Park, where residents shared a free meal at one long communal table. Though this event happened before Thanksgiving, it set the tone for the season’s spirit of togetherness. Madison Visionary Partners organized the celebration, complete with live music, a photo booth, and children’s activities.

Making Your Own Magic

Without a traditional parade to attend, families can create their own Thanksgiving morning traditions. Sign up for the Turkey Trot months in advance, as this popular event fills quickly. Arrive early to snag good parking at Spragins Hall, and dress in layers since November mornings can be chilly. After your race or hike, many local restaurants offer special Thanksgiving menus if you want to skip cooking, or head home to start your own feast.

While Madison and Huntsville may not have parade floats rolling down Main Street, they’ve built something better: active, inclusive traditions that bring neighbors together before gathering around the table to give thanks.