The Des Moines Turkey Trot

Race Overview

Named as one of the "Top Turkey Trots In The Country" by Runners World Magazine, the Des Moines Turkey Trot is Iowa's largest Thanksgiving Day Tradition.

Race Experience

The run is like a highlight reel of Des Moines so get ready to experience downtown Des Moines, or show it off to your visiting family and friends, while burning off some holiday carbs.

Start Line

• Location: Athletes will start their Thanksgiving run with the Des Moines Courthouse as their backdrop in the heart of the Court Ave Entertainment District.
• Course: Both 5K and 5-mile runners will make their way across the Des Moines River and through the center of the Historic East Village.
• Scenery: A slight uphill will run athletes around the whole of the State Capitol Complex which offers the most famous view of downtown Des Moines.
• Finish: From there, it's downhill for home!

5 Mile Course

5 Mile Athletes will finish their holiday "tour" with a scenic jaunt to the Botanical Center before returning across the Women's Achievement Bridge and finishing by running through the heart of downtown.

Event Details

Join us for a memorable race on 2025-11-27 at 208 Court Ave, Des Moines, IA.

For more information and to register, visit: The Des Moines Turkey Trot.