Charlotte Turkey Trot
Race snapshot
Race Day
36–64°F · Feels cool
Total elevation gain
Net elevation change +0 ft
Crowd Rating
Excellent spectator turnout
The Lowdown
The CPI Security Charlotte Turkey Trot is a Thanksgiving morning event at SouthPark Mall. It brings runners, walkers and families together for an 8K, 5K, 1-mile fun run and a free 50-yard Tot Trot for children 8 and under. The 8K begins at 8:10 a.m. , the 5K at 9:10 a.m. , the mile at 8 a.m. and the Tot Trot at 8:30 a.m. Organizers describe the race as a 37-year Charlotte tradition and one of North Carolina’s largest road races. Participants receive a long-sleeve cotton shirt, and finishers in the 8K, 5K and mile receive medals. The post-race gathering includes snacks, product sampling, coffee trucks and a beer garden. Packet-pickup opportunities are offered at nine Charlotte-area locations in October and November.
Questions about the Charlotte Turkey Trot 2026
When is the Charlotte Turkey Trot 2026?
Thursday, November 26, 2026.
Where is the Charlotte Turkey Trot?
Charlotte, NC, United States.
What time does the Charlotte Turkey Trot start?
The race starts at 8:10 AM, local time.
How do I enter the Charlotte Turkey Trot 2026?
Registration is open. Ways in: Online registration through RunSignup.
How much does the Charlotte Turkey Trot 2026 cost?
8K: $55. 5K: $55. 1 Mile: $35.
What is the Charlotte Turkey Trot elevation gain?
30 m (98 ft) of total elevation gain. Net elevation change: +0 m (0 ft).
What is the Charlotte Turkey Trot course like?
It passes SouthPark Mall.
What is the weather like at the Charlotte Turkey Trot?
Race-day temperatures are usually 2–18 °C (36–64 °F). Feels cool.
Where are the Charlotte Turkey Trot results?
The official 2025 results are on the organizer's site. Official results
Prepare for This Race
Running this race?
MarathonOS puts your race countdown on your Lock Screen and keeps every race-week checklist on your phone. Checklists and your race report are free for your first race.
Scan to download
Community
Race Day Photos
Share the scenery, finish-line celebrations, and behind-the-scenes snapshots.