North Shore Turkey Trot
Race snapshot
Race Day
34–43°F · Feels cold
Total elevation gain
Net elevation change +16 ft
Participants
Medium-sized race
Crowd Rating
Excellent spectator turnout
The Lowdown
The North Shore Turkey Trot is a Thanksgiving Day tradition in Highland Park, Illinois, drawing runners and walkers to the city's North Shore neighborhoods for a 5K, a 10K, and a Kids' Trot. First run in 1978, the event has grown into one of the largest Thanksgiving Day races in the Chicago area, with roughly 4,000 participants in recent editions. Both the 5K and the 10K start at 8:00 a.m. from St. Johns Ave. and Central Ave. in downtown Highland Park, following two USATF-certified, single-loop courses closed to traffic that pass the Ravine, the Lake Michigan lakefront, and the downtown district before finishing at St. Johns Ave. and Elm. The Kids' Trot starts later at 10:00 a.m., with age-group waves for 2-4, 5-6, and 7-10 year-olds. Registered 5K and 10K runners receive an exclusive knit hoodie and a Thanksgiving-themed finisher's medal, plus free finisher photos; a virtual option is also offered. Afterward, the Turkey Trot Tailgate serves warm apple cider and pie with live music and games. A portion of race proceeds benefits the Highland Park Community Foundation.
Questions about the North Shore Turkey Trot 2026
When is the North Shore Turkey Trot 2026?
Thursday, November 26, 2026.
Where is the North Shore Turkey Trot?
Highland Park, Illinois, United States.
What time does the North Shore Turkey Trot start?
The race starts at 8:00 AM, local time.
What is the North Shore Turkey Trot time limit?
1 hour 28 minutes.
How do I enter the North Shore Turkey Trot 2026?
Registration is open. Ways in: Online registration via northshoreturkeytrot.com; Virtual participation option available for those not attending in person.
How much does the North Shore Turkey Trot 2026 cost?
10K: $54. 5K: $44. Kids' Trot: $20.
What is the North Shore Turkey Trot elevation gain?
40 m (131 ft) of total elevation gain. Net elevation change: +5 m (16 ft).
What is the North Shore Turkey Trot course like?
It passes The Ravine, Lake Michigan lakefront and Downtown Highland Park district.
What is the weather like at the North Shore Turkey Trot?
Race-day temperatures are usually 1–6 °C (34–43 °F). Feels cold.
How many runners does the North Shore Turkey Trot have?
4,000 participants. Medium-sized race.
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