2026 River Vale Run 4 the Love and Fitness with Friends Turkey Trot Charity 5K

The Township of River Vale sponsors this event.

The vision of Run 4 the Love LLC and Fitness with Friends is to help communities become healthy, fit, and happy by providing coaching, clinics and classes for everyone, young and old. They first held a 5K race in River Vale in the fall of 2022. Now they want River Vale, with its picturesque streets, small hometown feel, and vibrant community spirit, to be the star of this 3.1-mile journey at their second annual Turkey Trot.

• A healthy start to the holidays: Running (or walking!) the Turkey Trot is the perfect way to kick off Thanksgiving. You'll feel energized, burn some calories, and head into the big meal guilt-free.
• Fun for all ages and abilities: Whether you're a seasoned runner, a casual jogger, or just want to stroll with family, the Turkey Trot welcomes everyone. Strollers, costumes, and festive spirit are highly encouraged.
• Community spirit: This race is about bringing neighbors, friends, and families together. The organizers hope the Trot becomes a local tradition that creates lasting memories.
• Support a great cause: Proceeds from the event go to the Helping Hand Food Pantry of Hillsdale. Every step you take makes a difference for people in need right here in our community.
• Prizes and festive fun: Age group awards. Plus, you'll enjoy music, cheering, and a warm community atmosphere.
• A tradition to keep: Once you've done it, you'll want to come back year after year. The Turkey Trot is the type of tradition that kids, families, and friends look forward to every holiday season.

This is a race for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities and perfect for the entire family.

The race starts at Mark Lane Sports Complex. Registration begins at 7:00 am and the race begins at 8:00 am.

Registration fees

• Adult: $25
• Child: $15

On 11/1 the fee increases to $35 for adults and $20 per child.

Registrants receive a commemorative River Vale Turkey Trot T-shirt. To be guaranteed a shirt, register by 11/15. Registrations after 11/15 depend on how many late registrations are received.

This run will be timed electronically and entered into our database.

Prizes: 5 prizes will be awarded.

• $100 Visa gift card for 1st place male adult racer
• $100 Visa gift card for 1st place female adult racer
• $100 Visa gift card for 1st place 13 and under female racer
• $100 Visa gift card for 1st place 13 and under male racer
• $100 Visa gift card for 1st River Vale resident

Proceeds will be donated to The Helping Hand Food Pantry.

The Helping Hand Food Pantry is a non-profit charitable organization granted 501(C)(3) status by the IRS. It is entirely staffed by volunteers and relies on private donations, grocery stores, fundraisers, food drives, and grants to serve those in need. It currently serves approximately 1252 neighbors every month, including senior citizens, the disabled, active military members, and veterans.

The pantry is open on Monday evenings and the first Saturday morning of every month. Donations are accepted during these times, or non-perishable foods can be placed in the covered outdoor receptacles at any time. The pantry serves community members from the towns of Emerson, Hillsdale, Oradell, Montvale, River Vale, Washington Township, Westwood, and Woodcliff Lake.

The Spring Fling 5Ks, Town Day 5Ks, Shamrock Run 5K, and last year's inaugural Turkey Trot have allowed the organizers to donate over $8000 to this organization.