In 73 days · Thu, Nov 26, 2026
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Thursday, November 26th, 2026
5200 Research Park Dr, Fitchburg WI
5K · 10K
27–40°F · low rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 2 of the last 10 years
2025
27–38°F
dry
2024
22–34°F
dry
2023
25–33°F
rain
2022
36–50°F
dry
2021
16–31°F
dry
2020
33–46°F
dry
2019
29–43°F
rain
2018
21–29°F
dry
2017
24–48°F
dry
2016
30–46°F
dry
Best months to race in Wisconsin →
About this race
Event Overview
Join us for Madison’s favorite Thanksgiving tradition — the Birdie Derby 10K Run & 5K Run/Walk Presented by Hatchery Hill Towne Center! Experience the premier Thanksgiving Day race, known for its energy, community spirit, and top-notch race day experience.
What Your Registration Includes
- Official Race Bib: You will receive an official race bib to participate in the event.
- Race Apparel: Choose between a Birdie Derby Long-Sleeved Shirt or a Lightweight tech hoodie.
- Extras: Enjoy a knit hat and KWIK TRIP GLAZERS!
- Refreshments: Receive chocolate milk, bananas, water, and Yahara Chocolate.
Additionally, fun continues at the Birdie Derby Village, which is unlike any other, providing entertainment for all. Enjoy free Oasis Cafe coffee and hot chocolate before and after the race, along with free race photos and professional timing by Sportstats on an accurately measured course.
Kids Dash
If you have a little one (2-6), they can participate in the Kids Dash, a great way to start the day! It is free with a paid adult registration.
Race Location
Fitchburg Business Park
5200 E Cheryl Pkwy, Fitchburg WI 53711
Pre-Race Packet Pickup Schedule
- Tuesday, November 24: 12pm – 7pm
- Wednesday, November 25: 7am – 2pm
Location: Hatchery Hill Town Center, 2970 Cahill Main, Suite 101, Fitchburg WI 53711. Pick up your race swag early to avoid lines on Thanksgiving morning!
Thanksgiving Day Race Schedule
- 7:00 am: Packet pick up AT PERENNIAL YOGA
- 8:00 am: Kids Dash
- 8:30 am: 10K Run Start
- 8:50 am: 5K Run Start
- 9:00 am: 5K Walk Start
Virtual Registration
Can’t make it on race day, and you don’t want to miss out on the tradition? Sign up for the virtual Birdie Derby!
What Your Virtual Registration Includes
- Race Apparel: Birdie Derby Long-Sleeved Shirt or Lightweight tech hoodie.
- Winter Hat: Receive a winter hat as part of your registration.
- Packet Shipment: Your package will be mailed the Tuesday after Thanksgiving to the address submitted during registration.
- Team Participation: Virtual participants are eligible to join in-person teams, though they do not qualify for any awards.
New for 2026
Virtual registrations received before 11:59 pm on Sunday, November 8th, will have their race shirt and hat shipped to them early. Gather your flock and get creative with team names for a chance to win VIP parking passes!
Community Support
Did you know that the Birdie Derby is the ONLY Thanksgiving race that donates 100% of proceeds? The Birdie Derby supports Active Youth Wisconsin (formerly Tri 4 Schools), a local organization creating accessible opportunities for kids to be active. Your participation funds financial aid for kids to receive shoes, bikes, swim lessons, and more, so they can participate in events and programs that help them recognize the mental and physical benefits of regular movement. Together, we're building a stronger, healthier community! Learn more about Active Youth Wisconsin here.
Race Website
For more information, visit the race website: runthederby.com
Registration Link
Register for the Birdie Derby 5k/10k Run/Walk here.
Course map
Hotels for race weekend
Live prices near the start line, Nov 25 – 27, 2026.
Train with a club
Run clubs near Fitchburg to train with before race day.
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