Lewiston’s Turkey Ball Game Celebrates 50th Year at New Venue

The annual Turkey Ball basketball game, a beloved tradition in Lewiston, is moving to a new venue this year as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. The game will take place at the Schweitzer Clubhouse, previously known as Booth Hall, located at 819 12th St. in downtown Lewiston. This change was necessary as the usual location, the Orchards Clubhouse, is not available for the event.

The doors will open at 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning, with the game set to start at 8:30 a.m.. All members of the community are invited to join in the festivities, which have brought together families and friends for decades.

The tradition of Turkey Ball began in 1975 when Steve Forge and a group of friends decided to organize a basketball game on Thanksgiving morning. Since then, the event has been held every year, with the exception of one year during the COVID-19 pandemic, when gatherings were restricted. Forge recently shared insights about the history and significance of Turkey Ball in an episode of the Lewiston Tribune Podcast, available at bit.ly/43QiI3X.

As this cherished community event approaches its milestone anniversary, it promises to be a memorable occasion for both participants and spectators alike. The Turkey Ball game not only celebrates the sport but also fosters a spirit of togetherness that has defined this gathering for fifty years.