Johnson City Turkey Trot 5K

Johnson City Turkey Trot 5K takes place in Johnson City, Tennessee, on Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2026, with a 5K run/walk (3.1 miles) starting at 8:30 AM. This 21st annual edition keeps to the classic Thanksgiving-morning format: a single road distance open to runners and walkers of every level.

Three-point-one miles is short enough that you can race it hard and still have the rest of the day ahead of you, which is the whole appeal of a Turkey Trot. If you are chasing a time, warm up for 15 minutes with a few strides and aim for even pacing; if you are walking or running with family, simply enjoy the morning. Newer runners can prepare in three to four weeks with short, easy runs, gradually reducing walk breaks. Late November mornings in East Tennessee can be cold, so bring layers you can shed before the start.