Historically the turkey trot was a popular dance that was done to fast ragtime music. Many people felt the dance was scandalous and it was banned in many places around the country. Today, Turkey Trots are more commonly walks or runs held around Thanksgiving. The first Turkey Trot Run was held in Salem in 2002, and the Salem Parks Department held their annual turkey trot on Saturday November 22, 2025. On Thanksgiving Day, Salem’s Run’ucopia will be holding a walk and run starting at Riverfront Park.