New Salem Children's Center Turkey Trot

New Salem Children's Center Turkey Trot is held in Petersburg, Illinois, on November 14, 2026. The morning begins with an untimed fun run at 10:00 AM (distance not specified), followed by the 5K run/walk at 11:00 AM. The hour between the two starts makes it easy for families to take part in the fun run first and then line up for the 5K.

Turkey trots are the classic low-key fall race, and this one suits anyone from first-timers to regulars looking for a hard 3.1 miles before Thanksgiving. Newer runners can prepare with eight weeks of three short runs per week. If you plan to run both events, treat the fun run as your warm-up and save your effort for the 5K. Walkers are welcome on the 5K, so a steady-pace goal works just as well as a time goal, and the 11:00 AM start leaves room for a proper breakfast.