Birdie Derby 5k/10k Run/Walk

Birdie Derby 5k/10k Run/Walk

Join us for Madison’s favorite Thanksgiving tradition — the Birdie Derby 10K Run & 5K Run/Walk! 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: Standard race identification for participants.
• Birdie Derby Apparel: Long-Sleeved Shirt OR Lightweight tech hoodie.
• Knit Hat: A cozy accessory for the chilly weather!
• Delicious Treats: KWIK TRIP GLAZERS, Chocolate milk, bananas, water, and Yahara Chocolate.

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.

Virtual Participation

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!

• Virtual Shirt: Birdie Derby Long-Sleeved Shirt (OR crewneck upgrade).
• Winter Hat: A cozy addition for the virtual runners.
• Packet Shipping: Your race packet will be mailed the Tuesday after Thanksgiving to the address submitted during registration.
• Team Eligibility: Virtual participants are eligible to join in-person teams.

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. You, your family, and friends can proudly wear your Birdie finery and join the tradition from wherever you are on Thanksgiving Day!

Introducing the Birdie Brackets! The clever team names are one of the things that make the Birdie Derby unique. All teams with 5 or more members signed up by the deadline (11:59 pm on Sunday, November 8th) are eligible for consideration.

Registration Changes

Any changes to registrations must be completed before Monday, November 23, 2026. No changes from in-person to virtual are accepted after this time.

Community Impact

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.

Learn more about Active Youth Wisconsin here.

Race Information

Race Website: runthederby.com

Race Location:
Fitchburg Business Park
5200 Research Park Dr, Fitchburg, WI 53711

Pre-Race Packet Pickup Schedule

Tuesday, November 24 - 12pm – 7pm
Wednesday, November 25 - 7am – 2pm
Location: TBA

Pick up your race swag early - no need to wait in line on Thanksgiving morning or carry your goodie bag with you while you race!

Thanksgiving Day Race Schedule

8:00 am - Kids Dash
8:30 am - 10K Run Start
8:50 am - 5K Run Start
9:00 am - 5K Walk Start