Cedar Rapids Turkey Trot 5K

NOV
26
2026
Celebrate Thanksgiving in downtown Cedar Rapids with a scenic 5K run along the Cedar River Trail followed by local donuts at the finish line.
Thu 26 Nov 2026
5 kilometers

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Overview

The Cedar Rapids Turkey Trot is an annual community running event held on Thanksgiving morning in downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Celebrating its 11th year, the event provides a coordinated run through city streets and along the Cedar River Trail. The race is part of a nationwide network of holiday runs, allowing participants to compare their results against a national leader board.

Route and Distances

Participants can choose between competitive and non-competitive categories. The course follows the streets of downtown Cedar Rapids and utilizes the Cedar River Trail for scenic views of the water.

  • 5 km (Chip-timed or fun run categories)
  • Kids Dash

Event Details

The event features a chip-timed 5K with a course time limit of 1 hour and 20 minutes. Runners and walkers are both permitted to participate. While dogs are not allowed on the course, strollers are permitted for those in the walking and jogging categories, provided they start at the back of the corral.

Special amenities for participants include a choice of premium event gear, such as a fleece hoodie or a long-sleeve shirt. Upon crossing the finish line, runners receive donuts provided by local bakery Donutland. The event also supports Best Buddies Iowa, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Logistics

The start and finish lines are located at 1st St SE and 6th Ave SE. Limited street parking is available nearby, though participants should account for potential delays due to race-related road closures. Packet pickup typically takes place at Lindale Mall in the days leading up to the race, with limited options available on the morning of the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

5 km
Virtual Run - 5k
5 km
Kid's Division 5k Fun Run
5 km
5k Run/walk (untimed)
5 km
5k Run/walk
5 km
5k - Extended Online Registration
5 km
5k (untimed) - Extended Online Registration
Kid's Dash - 100 Meters