Florida's Thanksgiving morning race tradition runs deep. From Jacksonville turkey trots to half marathons along the St. Johns River, here are the best Florida Thanksgiving races to run this November.
Thanksgiving morning and a 5K go together in Florida like turkey and stuffing. Whether you are running to earn your meal, to keep a streak alive, or just to spend the holiday with Jacksonville's running community, there is a race for you. Here are the best Thanksgiving races and turkey trots happening across Florida in 2026.
Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic — Jacksonville
Thanksgiving morning | Jacksonville, FL
Jacksonville's premier Thanksgiving race. The Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic draws thousands of runners to the streets of Jacksonville every Thanksgiving morning for a half marathon and 5K through some of the city's most scenic neighborhoods. Sponsored by Community First Credit Union, the race has become a holiday institution for Northeast Florida runners. The half marathon is a favorite for runners targeting a fall PR before winter training begins, and the 5K keeps the whole family involved. Sign up early — this one fills fast.
Tony's Turkey Trot — Jacksonville
Thanksgiving morning | Jacksonville, FL
Tony's Turkey Trot is one of Jacksonville's most festive Thanksgiving morning 5Ks, with costumes encouraged and the atmosphere firmly set to holiday mode. The flat, fast course is welcoming to runners and walkers of all paces, and the pre-race energy — full of turkey outfits, pilgrim hats, and enthusiastic families — is a tradition that keeps growing every year. A great choice if you want the community experience without the half marathon commitment.
Atlantic Beach Turkey Trot — Atlantic Beach
Thanksgiving morning | Atlantic Beach, FL
Running a turkey trot on the beach on Thanksgiving morning might be the most Florida thing possible. The Atlantic Beach Turkey Trot brings the Jacksonville Beaches community together for a Thanksgiving 5K along the coast, with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop and post-race celebration that sets the tone for the whole holiday. A shorter distance, a festive crowd, and ocean air make this one of the most enjoyable Thanksgiving races in Northeast Florida.
Omni Turkey Trot 5K — Fernandina Beach
Thanksgiving morning | Fernandina Beach, FL
Amelia Island's Thanksgiving morning tradition. The Omni Turkey Trot 5K is a well-organized, festive race through the historic streets of Fernandina Beach, one of Florida's most charming small cities. Costumes are always in full force, the course is flat and fast, and the finish line on Amelia Island is hard to beat.
Thanksgiving Races Across Florida
Thanksgiving turkey trots happen across the entire state, from the Panhandle to the Keys. Use the November race filter on Run Florida Run to find a Thanksgiving race near you, or browse by city to see what is happening in your area.
Tips for Running a Turkey Trot
- Dress for the occasion. Turkey costumes, pilgrim hats, and inflatable turkey suits are all fair game at turkey trots. Lean into it.
- Register in advance. Thanksgiving morning races fill up weeks ahead of time. Most sell out before November.
- Start easy. If you have been eating well all week, your legs may feel heavier than usual. Start conservatively and enjoy the race.
- Bring the family. Most turkey trots offer a 5K and a 1-mile fun run, making them genuinely family-friendly events.
Browse all Jacksonville races or use the Run Florida Run event search to find a Thanksgiving race near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there Thanksgiving races in Jacksonville, FL? expand_more
Yes. Jacksonville hosts multiple Thanksgiving morning races, including the Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic (half marathon and 5K) and Tony's Turkey Trot (5K). Atlantic Beach also hosts a popular Thanksgiving 5K along the coast.
What is the Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic? expand_more
The Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic is Jacksonville's largest Thanksgiving race, offering a half marathon and 5K through the streets of Jacksonville every Thanksgiving morning. It is sponsored by Community First Credit Union and draws thousands of runners each year.
When do Thanksgiving races in Florida sell out? expand_more
Most Florida turkey trots and Thanksgiving morning races sell out several weeks before Thanksgiving. If you are targeting a specific race, register as early as possible — popular events like the Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic fill up fast.
What should I wear to a turkey trot? expand_more
Turkey costumes, pilgrim hats, and Thanksgiving-themed outfits are all encouraged at most turkey trots. Underneath the costume, dress in light, moisture-wicking running clothes appropriate for Florida November morning temperatures, which typically range from the low 50s to mid-60s at race time.
Are there half marathons on Thanksgiving in Florida? expand_more
Yes. The Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic in Jacksonville offers a half marathon on Thanksgiving morning. Several other Florida races also offer longer distances on or around Thanksgiving weekend.