6 Alternatives to Watching Football on Thanksgiving Day

Tired of the pigskin? Here are other ways to pass the time

ByABC News
November 28, 2013, 9:54 AM
Dressed as turkeys and a chef, three generations of runners from the same family including, from left, Becky Arrambide, Laura Arrambide, Kat Lancaster, Sara Lancaster and Gabby Arrambide, stretch before participating in the annual Memphis Turkey Trot race in Memphis, Tenn., Nov. 22, 2012.
Dressed as turkeys and a chef, three generations of runners from the same family including, from left, Becky Arrambide, Laura Arrambide, Kat Lancaster, Sara Lancaster and Gabby Arrambide, stretch before participating in the annual Memphis Turkey Trot race in Memphis, Tenn., Nov. 22, 2012.
AP

Nov. 28, 2013— -- Television held hostage by football fanatic family members? Here are six things to do today besides watch the pigskin.

Turkey Trots

A turkey trot is a local foot race, usually a 5k, that takes place before or on Thanksgiving Day. You can walk or run, and people usually wear funny hats, like turkey behinds. It's the perfect way balance out the excessive eating that goes on during Thanksgivign dinner. The web site Running in the USA has a very helpful list of turkey trots taking place around the nation. There are 1,168 on their list so chances are there's a turkey trot near you. They have even provided links to register for individual races for many of the events.

Figure Out Your Black Friday / Cyber Monday Plan of Attack

Despite the fact that a few stores are boycotting what's known as "Grey Thursday" otherwise known as they day before Black Friday otherwise known as Thanksgiving, those same stores will be open bright and early for bargain hunters on Black Friday. And should you miss Black Friday, there's always Cyber Monday. Here's a few sales and ideas to get you started on your planning:

Tech: Holiday Tech Gifts: The Best Gadgets This Holiday Season

Travel: Best Black Friday, Cyber Monday Travel Deals

Strategize Ways Not to Gain 10 Pounds Before New Year's

With so many holiday events revolving around food and cocktails, it's easy to add on the extra pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. But that doesn't have to be the rule. Katrina Hodgson and Karena Dawn, hosts of "Toned Up," a new fitness series premiering on Bravo on Jan. 2, 2014, shared with ABC News some of their best strategies for balancing the season's indulgences with healthy choices.

Find Out What Other Americans Eat on Thanksgiving

From pumpkin lasagna to shooefly pie, there's more to Thanksgiving than turkey and stuffing. Check out ABC's guide to Thanksgiving Traditions Across America. Oh and after you've finished that you'll want to check out this turkey-stuffed doughnut.

Figure Out What to Do With Your Thanksgiving Leftovers

It's probably the last thing you want to think about as you sit on the sofa with yoru pants unbuttoned, but at some point you need to figure out what to do with all that leftover food. We've got you covered! Tune into Good Morning America on Friday to see Emeril's ideas, or check out these options to get a headstart.

Get Started on Your Taxes

Yes, it's boring. But for some, probably not as boring as football. The good news this year is that the federal tax laws are in place, unlike at the end of 2012, when Congress was still fighting over legislation.The bad news is that if you earn a lot of money, you could face some new taxes. The best news, regardless of your income level, is that you still have time -- until Dec. 31 -- to reduce your tax bill. Read up on the Top 10 Year-End Tax Moves to Make.