Fairhaven Bar Keeps Turkey Trot Tradition Alive and Thriving With Complimentary Coffee and Donuts

For the past decade, Fairhaven’s Thanksgiving Turkey Trot has been more than just a 5K; it’s a celebration of community, charity and tradition, thanks in part to Matt Cebula, owner of Rasputin’s Tavern.

Every Thanksgiving morning, Cebula opens his doors early at 122 Main Street to welcome Turkey Trot participants, their families, and the public for complimentary coffee and donuts.

It’s his way of spreading holiday cheer and showing appreciation for his loyal patrons, all while supporting a worthy cause.

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“It’s our way of giving back to those who are helping the community,” Cebula said. “People appreciate it and enjoy it. It also helps to grow the Trot and keep the tradition alive. The more people are participating (in the trot), the more the food pantry benefits.”

The fun begins the night before Thanksgiving, often referred to as "Thanksgiving Eve," one of the busiest social nights of the year. After a late-night crowd, Cebula reopens around 9 a.m. Thanksgiving morning to give out free coffee and donuts to refuel the runners after they've crossed the finish line.

The Fairhaven Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, an annual 5K fun run, raises funds and food for local organizations like Shepherd's Pantry and the Southeastern Massachusetts Educational Collaborative (SMEC). Since 2010, the event has generated over $80,000 and collected thousands of pounds of canned goods for local food pantries.

This year, the Turkey Trot will take place on Thursday, November 28, at 8 a.m. starting at Cushman Park. Runners will weave through Green Street and Fort Phoenix before looping back to the park for the finish.

Registration costs $25 and remains open online until November 26, with day-of registration available at the SMEC Building on Bridge Street. The first 400 adult registrants will receive a commemorative t-shirt, and participants are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to help “Stuff-a-Truck” for Shepherd’s Pantry.

Whether you’re running, volunteering, or simply enjoying a post-run Bloody Mary at Rasputin’s Tavern, the Fairhaven Turkey Trot continues to be a holiday staple that brings the community together for a cause that truly embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving.