Thanksgiving in Mercer County has a way of bringing people together—and not just around the dinner table. Before the ovens heat up and the parade begins, locals and visitors alike lace up their running shoes for a beloved holiday tradition: the Gobble Wobble 5K at Buhl Park in Hermitage.
Now in its 38th year, this annual event combines the joy of movement, community spirit, and a chance to support local conservation efforts—all set against one of Mercer County’s most scenic backdrops.
There’s something special about joining a crowd of smiling faces on a crisp November morning. Steam rises from coffee cups, families pose for quick pre-race photos, and colorful running gear stands out against the park’s late-autumn hues.
The Gobble Wobble isn’t just for serious runners—it’s for everyone. You’ll find groups of friends walking the course together, parents pushing strollers, and even a few costumed turkeys jogging toward the finish line. The energy is lighthearted, the pace is whatever feels right, and the atmosphere sets a positive tone for the rest of the day.
Buhl Park is one of Mercer County’s treasures, and the race course makes the most of it. Starting and finishing near Shelter 4 across from the Buhl Casino, the 5K winds past open fields, around Lake Julia, and through tree-lined paths that showcase the park’s natural beauty.
The route includes a mix of gentle hills and flat stretches—enough variety to keep things interesting without feeling overwhelming.
Online registration is strongly encouraged.
Pre-registration is available online for $10 per person through November 25, with race-day registration for $15. T-shirts can be pre-ordered (by November 11) and picked up—along with bibs—on Wednesday evening, November 26, from 5:00 to 7:30 PM at the Buhl Park Casino.
For details, course maps, and registration links, visit gobblewobblerace.com.
All proceeds from the Gobble Wobble benefit Shenango River Watchers, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the Shenango River watershed. Your participation helps to preserve the natural spaces that make this region so inviting for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Even if you’re not racing, you can still get involved—donate, sponsor, or cheer on participants as they make their way through the park.
Once you’ve crossed the finish line (and earned that second slice of pie), spend the rest of the day enjoying what Mercer County has to offer.
Stop in Hermitage for coffee and a light breakfast.
Stroll through Sharon and check out local shops and holiday displays.
If you’re visiting from out of town, make it a long weekend—there are cozy inns and family-friendly hotels nearby, plus plenty of small-town charm to explore.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best, walking with loved ones, or just soaking in the festive atmosphere, the Gobble Wobble 5K is a Mercer County Thanksgiving tradition that connects people through movement, nature, and gratitude.
This year, start your holiday with a deep breath of fresh air and a short jog through Buhl Park—it’s the perfect reminder of how good it feels to move, give back, and be part of something local.
