YMCA Buffalo Niagara Turkey Trot
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About the race
The YMCA Turkey Trot is an annual Thanksgiving Day footrace in Buffalo, New York. It is an 8-kilometer (4.97 mile) event that attracts more than 14,000 runners, joggers, and walkers of all ages and abilities. In 2026 the race marks its 131st consecutive running and is described as the oldest consecutively run footrace in the world.
The Turkey Trot is YMCA Buffalo Niagara’s largest fundraising event. Proceeds support YMCA programs that prepare youth for success, prevent drownings, increase social connections, and improve community health.
For 2026 the event uses a new single-lap course that starts and ends at the Buffalo Convention Center while preserving the original route’s second half down Delaware Avenue; the course remains the full 8 kilometers. The change was made to provide indoor warm spaces, restrooms at the Convention Center, easier day-of packet pick-up, and improved spectator viewing. Parking and drop-off operations are centered around the Buffalo Convention Center and shuttle options are being explored.
Registration is tiered by date with fees increasing as the event approaches; fees are non-refundable and include online processing and a commemorative 2026 Turkey Trot t-shirt (shirt sizes not guaranteed after October 9). Pre-race packet pick-up is available at the Independent Health Family YMCA on November 23–25, with additional morning packet distribution near the start on race day. Water is provided at the finish and inside the Convention Center only. A trail bus follows the back of the pack and medical aid is located at the Convention Center. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
