In 47 days · Thu, Nov 26, 2026
Don't let race day sneak up
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Thursday, November 26th, 2026
2400 Aversboro Rd, Garner NC
5K · 1 Mile
41–58°F · low rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 1 of the last 10 years
2025
61–73°F
dry
2024
50–68°F
dry
2023
38–53°F
dry
2022
41–60°F
dry
2021
38–53°F
rain
2020
59–70°F
dry
2019
38–62°F
dry
2018
44–62°F
dry
2017
40–57°F
dry
2016
43–58°F
dry
Best months to race in North Carolina →
Race-day forecast says layers
41°F at the start.
Gloves, ear warmers, throwaway layers, hand warmers — delivered before race day.
About this race
For race info (parking, packet pick up, awards, the day's agenda), click on "RACE INFO" on the menu!!
What is the Freedom Ride Rescue Turkey Day 5K?
The Freedom Ride Rescue Turkey Day 5K is the annual Thanksgiving Day race held in Garner’s White Deer and Lake Benson Parks. Family and friends, both human and canine, gather to enjoy a brisk holiday morning run or walk through the parks to help raise money in support of Freedom Ride Rescue's mission to help abandoned, neglected and abused animals in North Carolina.
Race options include 5K and a 1M Fun Run. Both the 5K and 1M courses are relatively flat paved trails with some gravel/dirt paths for the 5K route. The seasonal beauty of these two parks is spectacular.
Thanksgiving themed costumes, decorated wagons, strollers and baby joggers are encouraged. Well socialized dogs are welcome on a 6’ or shorter leash - retractable leashes are not permitted. Virtual 'racers' are welcome to support us from a far and will receive a race shirt while supplies last!
Since its inception, The Freedom Ride Rescue Turkey Day 5K has been a very popular and well attended event. The first year was capped at 500 participants, and we sold out. In 2025, we had over 1000 registrations! For our 10th annual, we are hoping to break that record!!
Registration fees increase as race day approaches, so register early!
Course map
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Run clubs near Garner to train with before race day.
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