Each year, the Fox River Trail Runners host the Fox and the Turkey Run, a four-mile jaunt along the scenic Fox River and through neighborhood streets that starts and finishes at Houston Street in downtown Batavia. Fox River Trail Runners also offers a one-mile youth run.

The races are part of the Fox River Trail Runners Circuit, but they’re also open to the general public, and it’s a fun way to work up an appetite prior to the big meal and family celebrations.

Best of all, proceeds from the event benefit the Interfaith Food Pantry, whose mission is to provide food relief to the economically disadvantaged residents of Batavia and Batavia Township. “We strive to help with a hand up — not a hand out,” their website says.

Organizers ask that you consider an additional donation and bring a nonperishable food item on race day.

Race Day registration will begin at 6:30 a.m. and will close promptly at 7:15 a.m. for the youth mile and at 8 a.m. for the four-mile race. Registration is at the Peg Bond Center, 151 Island Ave., Batavia.

As of Friday, Nov. 14, about 70 percent of the open spots have been filled, so don’t delay if you want to take part. You can register today by clicking this link. Online registration is open until Nov. 25.

For details, visit the Fox River Trail Runners website.