Asheville Turkey Trot
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Event Overview
The Asheville Turkey Trot is an annual running event held on Thanksgiving Day in downtown Asheville, North Carolina. The 2026 edition marks the 26th year of this holiday tradition. The event includes two distinct distances for participants:
- 5k (3.1 miles)
- 1 mile (Gobble Wobble Fun Run)
A portion of the proceeds from the event is donated to the MANNA Food Bank. Participants can register in advance or on the morning of the event at Pack Square Park. For those who register after November 1, race shirts are not guaranteed.
Course Layout
The 5k course begins on Woodfin Street in front of the Downtown YMCA. The route proceeds through several downtown streets, including Central Avenue, East Chestnut Street, and Charlotte Street. Runners pass through Evelyn Place and Murdock Street, where a water station is located. The path continues onto Hillside Street and North Liberty Street before returning via Orange Street and Central Avenue. The final stretch follows Woodfin and Oak Street toward a traffic circle, leading to the finish line at Pack Square Park.
The 1 mile Fun Run also starts on Woodfin Street. The course utilizes a shorter loop involving Central Avenue, Orange Street, South Liberty Street, and Elm Street before merging back onto the main route toward the finish line at Pack Square Park.
Safety and Logistics
Professional timing services are provided for the races. For safety reasons, dogs and pets are not permitted on the course as the roads are not completely closed to traffic. Packet pickup is available both the day before the event at a designated location and on the morning of the race at Pack Square Park. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
