As Thanksgiving approaches Turkey Trots — fun holiday footraces — are a popular tradition for runners nationwide. If you’re gearing up for your first Turkey Trot you may be wondering, “What time does the Turkey Trot start?”
Turkey Trot start times vary by race but most kick off early Thanksgiving morning before participants sit down to feast later that day. Typical Turkey Trot start times range from 8-10 AM, though some can be earlier or later depending on the organizers.
As a newbie trotter, make sure to research your race’s start time so you don’t miss the starting gun. Here’s a guide to Turkey Trot start times so you can gobble up those miles successfully.
Check the Race Website
The first place to confirm your Trot’s start time is the official race website. Most list key details like start time and location right on the homepage. For instance, the Buffalo YMCA Turkey Trot homepage states a 9 AM sharp start.
Race websites also often have FAQs or information pages with full race day timelines — when packet pickup opens, when the start line closes, etc. Many races close the start 30 minutes early so don’t cut it too close!
Read Pre-Race Confirmation Emails
In addition to the website, check any confirmation emails from the race director for start time reminders and logistics. Click any links provided for specifics.
For example, the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot email confirms an 8 AM start but notes that streets close at 7 AM. So read those pre-race emails thoroughly.
Research Previous Years’ Results
You can also search for results from the past race online to gauge when it typically starts. Most post details like start time and finishers from prior years.
For example, past results show the Buffalo Turkey Trot kicking off promptly at 9 AM on Thanksgiving Day 2021. Barring major changes, expect a similar 9 AM start.
Ask Locals and Running Friends
For popular local races, tap into community knowledge by asking veteran trotters about traditional start times. Reach out on social media or running forums.
Those who have participated can share insight on when the starting gun normally goes off. This word-of-mouth can confirm specifics not listed elsewhere.
Factor In Your Thanksgiving Schedule
When researching start times, balance the race kickoff with your overall Thanksgiving schedule and travel. Most trots start early so runners can finish with time to clean up and eat.
Account for extra travel time to the start on crowded Thanksgiving Day roads. Give yourself at least an hour to park, walk to the start line, check gear, warm up, and get to your corral.
Arrive Early to Confirm On-Site
If still unsure of the exact start time, arrive to the race location early Thanksgiving morning to check signage. Organizers will have the official start displayed on banners, shirts, etc.
Scoping out the in-person signs when you arrive will eliminate any start time uncertainty. You can then relax until the gun goes off.
Listen for Announcements and the National Anthem
Another way to identify the start time is by listening for announcements and the national anthem, which normally plays 10-15 minutes before the gun goes off as a final call.
When you hear the patriotic song and countdown announcements, you’ll know you only have minutes until go time!
Follow the Race Hashtag on Social Media
Lastly, follow the race hashtag on social media for real-time updates on start times and potential delays on race morning due to weather etc.
Monitoring the hashtag lets you stay informed on start logistics as organizers and participants post live updates.
Focus on the Fun
Most of all, relax and enjoy the festive holiday vibes on race morning. Turkey Trots are community feel-good events. Start times are flexible so don’t stress!
The camaraderie of trotting alongside family, friends and neighbors matters more than precise start times. Let your worries go and get ready to gobble down some miles!
Typical Turkey Trot Start Times
While Turkey Trot start times vary, here are some common kickoff times to expect:
- 8 AM
- 8:30 AM
- 9 AM
- 10 AM
Most trotters should plan to arrive at least an hour before the published start time to park, walk to the start line, check gear, warm up, and get to their corral. Build in extra buffer for potential traffic delays.
Pro tip: Listen for the national anthem, which is usually sung 10-15 minutes before the start as a final call. When you hear it, get to your corral!
Popular Turkey Trots Across the Country
Here are start times for some of the largest and most famous Turkey Trots nationwide:
YMCA Turkey Trot (Buffalo, NY)
- Start time: 9 AM sharp
- Oldest continuously held Trot, since 1896
Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot
- Start time: 8 AM
- Large Trot with costumed runners
Turkey Trot by Strategic Staffing (Detroit, MI)
- 10K Start: 7:30 AM
- 5K Start: 8:30 AM
- Unique costume tradition
Snoopy’s Turkey Trot (Santa Rosa, CA)
- Starts: 8 AM and 9 AM
- Supports Schulz Museum programs
Manchester Road Race (Manchester, CT)
- Start: 10 AM sharp
- 4.7 mile race since 1927
Enjoy Your First Turkey Trot!
As a Turkey Trot newbie, knowing the start time will ensure you’re ready to gobble down the miles on Thanksgiving morning. With a little preparation, you’ll cross that starting line on time and have a fun holiday run.
Stay relaxed, soak up the vibes, and get ready to bond with the local running community. Before you know it, you’ll be a Turkey Trot pro looking forward to this Thanksgiving tradition every year!
Quick Answers to Popular Questions
The Virtual category closes Nov. 20 and packets will be mailed on November 22nd. Mailing or virtual options are not available after Nov. 20th. No exceptions.
NO DOGS are allowed on the 5k, 10k or Widdle Wobble course.
Stroller on the course? Yes, strollers are aloud on the course. Infants in a stroller under the age of two do not need to be registered.
Change distance? Please go HERE to update race distance OR visit us at packet pick up to make the change.
Change 5k wave? Participants are encouraged to stay in the wave they are registered for. However, participants that need to change their wave start do not need to inform registration or event management.
5k awards and times with two waves? The 5k times are based on when participants cross the start line and finish line. The 5k awards will combine both waves. Overall winners will be announced on stage and age group awards will be available for pick up at the Awards Tent.
NO REFUNDS. Participants may transfer their registration to another person HERE.
Dog Jog Family Participation? All participants (humans) in the Dog Jog will receive a finisher medal and race t-shirt. Dogs will receive a bag of treats. All participants on the course must be registered.
Where do I pick up BOMBAS Socks? Visit The Midnight Mission tent in the expo to pick up BOMBAS socks.
Thanksgiving Day Schedule
ARRIVE EARLY! With so many people checking in on race morning, please arrive early to allow plenty of time to park, pick up race bib/t-shirt, and get to the start line. Race day packet pick up opens at 6:00 AM.
6:00 a.m. – Packet Pick Up Opens for the 5k , 10k, and One Mile Dog Jog located in Grand Park.
7:30 a.m. – Dog Jog Start
8:00 a.m. – 1st Wave / 5k Start – no dogs on this course allowed.
8:15 a.m. – 2nd Wave / 5k Start – no dogs on this course allowed.
9:00 a.m. – 10k Start – no dogs on this course allowed.
9:15 a.m. – 5k Awards for Overall Winners on Stage. Age group awards are available for pick up at the Awards Tent.
9:15 a.m. – Packet Pick Up Open for Widdle Wobble located in Grand Park.
10:00 a.m. – 10k Awards for Overall Winners on Stage. Age group awards are available for be pick up at the Awards Tent.
10:15 a.m. – Widdle Wobble Start – no dogs on this course allowed.
11:00 a.m. – Course Closed
5 Tips to Prep for a Turkey Trot or Holiday Run
FAQ
How early should I get to Turkey Trot?
Q: How early do I need to be there? A: If you attend packet pick up we suggest you arrive 20-25 min prior your start time. If you’re picking up your packet or registering race morning, you should allow 30-40 min. Traffic can be unpredictable with everyone trying to arrive at 7:30 into a small campus.
What time does the Detroit Turkey Trot start?
Starting times: 10K and Mile: 7:30 a.m., 5K: 8:30 a.m.
What time does Dallas Turkey Trot start?
TIMED – 8 Mile or 5K Run/Walk Closed
The TIMED start takes off at 8:30 am or 9:00 am and will include an exclusive, timed Participant Corral for this 8 mile or 5K run/walk. Only timed participants will be allowed in this area prior to the 8:30 am start time.
When did the Turkey Trot start?
| Name | Location | Inaugural race |
|---|---|---|
| Dana Point Turkey Trot | Dana Point, California | 1977 |
| Feaster Five Road Race | Andover, Massachusetts | 1988 |
| Hyde Park Pilgrim Run | Kansas City, Missouri | |
| Invesco QQQ Half Marathon | Atlanta, Georgia |
What is the YMCA Turkey Trot?
Open to ages 4 – 99. Join us in celebrating the running of the 130th annual YMCA Turkey Trot. The YMCA Turkey Trot is an 8K (4.97 mile) road race held annually on Thanksgiving morning in the City of Buffalo. Known to be the oldest consecutively run footrace in the WORLD, the YMCA Turkey Trot is celebrating its 129th start this November!
What is the S3 Turkey Trot?
The Strategic Staffing Solutions Turkey Trot kick off America’s Thanksgiving Parade presented by Gardner White. The S3 Turkey Trot has been a tradition in Detroit for over 40 years! Much more than a variety of races (10k/5k/1 mile and combo events), thousands of participants dress in costumes for the event.
What is YMCA Buffalo Niagara’s Turkey Trot?
The Turkey Trot is YMCA Buffalo Niagara’s largest fundraising event. Proceeds raised help fund YMCA Buffalo Niagara’s work to provide safe, affordable childcare, keep all kids safe around water, combat hunger and food insecurity, close the achievement gap, and ensure health equity for all.
When is YMCA Buffalo Niagara Turkey Trot 2025?
Like this page and invite your friends on Facebook. The 130th Annual YMCA Buffalo Niagara Turkey Trot is on Thursday November 27, 2025 to Sunday November 30, 2025.
Who participated in the 2024 YMCA Turkey Trot?
Thank you to the 14,000+ participants in the 2024 YMCA Turkey Trot. From our trotters to volunteers, everyone who participated in this historic tradition makes a real change in our community. We hope you all had a wonderful time and we can’t wait to see you again in 2025! Am I registered? To look up your registration, click here.