When Kimberly Flodin learned about the Windham Turkey Trot – the annual Thanksgiving Day run and walk in her neighborhood that benefits Shepherd’s Food Pantry – she didn’t think she could participate and still get her holiday meal ready.

But with the purchase of a smoker to cook the family’s turkey through the night and some good planning, she found her family could join in the fun and still feed about 15 people in her home.

Since 2004, participating in the trot has been a family holiday tradition for the Flodins.

“It’s a fun way to celebrate Thanksgiving,” said Kimberly, adding that the trot represents what the holiday is all about – gathering with people and showing goodwill. “It’s a tremendous amount of fun. We look forward to it.”

The 3- and 5-mile walk and run draws participants of all kinds and ages – not just walkers and runners, but also bike riders, rollerbladers, moms and dads pushing strollers, kids in wagons, even people with llamas.

The event is held rain, snow, or shine. Snow fell two years ago, but that didn’t stop Kimberly’s 83-year-old mother from walking in the trot just two months after having heart surgery. She enjoyed it.

Even before the Flodins began participating, they supported the cause. Kimberly would give organizer Louise Peltz a check.

The event has grown since it began in 1995. Last year’s event drew a record 527 participants and raised $6,431. The fundraiser has to date collected $21,444.

It is an unofficial race but there are mile markers. Participants are encouraged to bring a watch for accurate timing. Hot chocolate and Munchkins are served at the end.

“It’s well known, so people come from all parts of town,” said Kimberly’s son, Harrison.

The trot has been a Thanksgiving tradition for the Yergeau family, too. In the 10 years they’ve lived in town, Kim and Glen Yergeau and their two sons have missed the trot only once, when one of their daughters, Cassie, was performing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City with the rest of the Salem High School marching band.

“It has the whole appeal of ‘get your turkey in the oven and come and join us,’” Yergeau said.

Kim runs in the trot, while Glen walks. Spencer and Cameron, who used to ride their bikes, now run, too. Cassie and the Yergeau’s other daughter, Nicole, both in their early 20s, have participated in some of the events.

The event, Kim said, is a good way to get some fresh air and exercise, support an important cause, and see neighbors and friends. “It’s very much a social thing,” Yergeau said. “We have friends there and our kids have friends there.”

If you are not able to participate and would like to make a tax-deductible donation to the food pantry, make your check out to Shepherd’s Pantry and mail it to Louise Peltz, 70 Blossom Road, Windham, NH 03087.