Turkey Trot 5K at Lake Eola puts runners in calorie deficit before Thanksgiving dinner

Before gorging yourself on a hearty Thanksgiving meal, take part in an active charity benefit that reminds you of the true spirit of the holiday season.

Seniors First hosts its Turkey Trot 2017 5K at Lake Eola on Thursday, with a goal of raising $150,000 to help the elderly.

Participants can dress up in regular running gear or go all out in a turkey-inspired attire for the costume contest.

This 28-year-old local tradition benefits programs like Meals on Wheels, personal care, homemaker services and Stepping Stone Medical Equipment Bank.

Registration is $33-$38 and can be done at the event starting at 6:30 a.m. For those wanting to get some extra rest before the race, you can sign up in advance online. Costume contest judging begins at 7:00 a.m. After the winners are selected, racers will take off  at 8 a.m., with a kids' trot kicking off at 9:15 a.m. You can also sign up for a virtual run for $40 if cardio just isn't your thing or have to start cooking the turkey early and can't make it.

Last year the event drew more 5,000 runners from 35 states and four countries.

You can find out more information about the event or donate to the cause here.