Madison Turkey Trot
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Madison Turkey Trot
The Madison Turkey Trot is scheduled for November 26, 2026 in Madison, Wisconsin, at the Alliant Energy Center. The 2026 edition is noted as the 12th annual running of this Thanksgiving morning event. The event includes a 5K race and a Kids Dash, and it is chip timed with timing chips integrated into participant bibs. The posted course time limit for the 5K is 1 hour 20 minutes.
Postfinish amenities include donuts from Greenbush Bakery and a commemorative finisher medal. Participants select participant gear from event options, including a classic t shirt or an upgraded thin tec soft polyester pullover; a premium fleece hoodie or long sleeve option has also been offered. Packet mailing is available for a fee and virtual packets typically arrive one to two weeks after race day. Virtual participation is supported and results from local events are aggregated into a national Thankful Turkey leader board.
The event supports United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Dane County and lists volunteer roles such as water stations, participant check in, and course marshaling; volunteers receive an event shirt. Practical notes include free parking at the Alliant Energy Center (enter from Rimrock Road), no event parking at Olin Park, water at all aid stations, no gear check on site, and a rule that dogs are not allowed while strollers are permitted for walkers and joggers with a guardian waiver. Awards are given to the top three male and female finishers in each age group and overall; kids who run the dash receive a finisher award. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
