YMCA hosts 11th annual “Burn the Bird” Thanksgiving run

FARGO, N.D (KVRR) – The people of Fargo burned some calories before their big Thanksgiving feast with the annual “Burn the Bird” run.

Before sitting down to a turkey dinner and some football, the community came out to burn some calories.

“It is the Thanksgiving day tradition for so many families in the valley; its really about coming together, having fun being a little active before we kind of tuck in for that big meal and spending the day watching some football,” says Katie McCormick of YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties.

The YMCA partnered with SoleMOTION for the 11th annual “Burn the Bird” Thanksgiving day run which is a 5K or 10K run or walk.

“I think “Burn the Bird” is different from some of the other foot races that we see. It’s really festive. You’re going to see a lot of people in turkey costumes or other Thanksgiving themed garb and it’s just fun. Run, maybe walk, do some time together with family,” said McCormick.

The route takes them all the way from the YMCA in Downtown Fargo to 17th Avenue near the Red River. It’s a great way to feel a little better when sitting down for that Thanksgiving meal.

“In North Dakota, we have to celebrate the weather no matter what and so being able to come out and be active on a beautiful, November day. What’s better than that?” said McCormick.

Proceeds from “Burn the Bird” go to benefit the LIVESTRONG program at the YMCA which helps local cancer survivors find community and improve their health.