Tom-A-Hawk Turkey Trot 5k

Tom-A-Hawk Turkey Trot 5k is held in Aurora, Illinois, on November 21, 2026. It is a single 5K road race (3.1 miles) starting at 8:00 a.m., part of the Thanksgiving-season turkey trot tradition.

Whether you are racing or jogging it with the family, the 5K rewards a little preparation. Beginners can follow a simple six-week plan that alternates walking and running until 30 minutes of continuous running feels easy. If you are after a fast time, add one interval session a week, such as six to eight repeats of two to three minutes at a hard but controlled effort, and finish your training with a couple of easy days so your legs are fresh. On race morning, a warm-up jog and a few strides will help you handle the first mile, which tends to feel fast in cold air. An 8:00 a.m. start means a light breakfast early and plenty of time to get to the start area.