Mark your calendars for Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 26, 2026 — the Edwardsville Turkey Trot is back.

Now in its 17th year, the Turkey Trot has grown into a cherished holiday tradition for local families and those visiting loved ones in town. Participation regularly tops 1,400 runners, and 2025 set a record with 1,863 — making it one of the largest 5Ks in the region, if not the largest.

This year's event returns to the scenic campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, a beautiful backdrop for kicking off your Thanksgiving celebration. Whether you race for a personal best, jog with the kids, or stroll the course with friends, everyone is welcome — this is a fun run and walk for all ages and abilities. So grab your family, gather your friends, and join a tradition that gives back to the community we love.

Where & when

• 8:00 AM Kids: Fun Run
• 8:30 AM: 5K Fun Run & Walk it, walk it, or trot it — every pace welcome
• 9:30 AM: Award Ceremony Held indoors

Location: SIUE Lot F, beside the SIUE Student Fitness Center.

Age group awards

Turkey trophies go to the top finishers in each of the categories below.

• Top 3 Overall: Male & female
• Top Masters: Male & female, ages 40+
• Top 3 by Age Group: Across every bracket listed below

Age group brackets: 10 & Under, 11–14, 15–19, 20–24, 25–29, 30–34, 35–39, 40–44, 45–49, 50–54, 55–59, 60–64, 65–69, 70+

Event swag

Choose your swag when you register — and register by November 21 to guarantee it.

• Option 1: Custom LED Belt Bag - A sleek, slim Wrenn & Rae running belt with expandable storage and built-in fiber-optic LED light.
• Option 2: Embroidered Beanie - A cozy slate-blue waffle-knit beanie with the 2026 event logo.

Note: One size, unisex fit for the beanie.

Join us on Thanksgiving morning

Bring the whole family. Run it, walk it, and start the holiday with a tradition that gives back.