2026 Kent Turkey Trot

Kent Turkey Trot 2026 in Kent, Ohio, United States on Thursday, November 26th, is a family event with both a 5K RUN/WALK and a Fun Walk/Run taking place Thanksgiving morning at 9:00am. The Fun Run/Walk starts earlier, just under 800 meters long to get the day off to an easy start. The 5K Run/Walk commences fifteen minutes later at 9:15am with awards given out by 10:15am.
On race morning, runners will find themselves in a cozy and familiar setting. Kent, Ohio, is known for its well-preserved small-town charm. The skies on Thanksgiving day are usually clear to partly cloudy, offering temperatures that hover around the chilly side but not too harsh—averaging 6.1°C with minimal snowfall of just 0.1mm. Runners should expect firm and slightly soft trail conditions due to potential morning dew or light frost from the night before.
The course is a testament to Kent's community spirit, featuring a mix of paved roads and well-maintained paths that wind through the city’s parks and residential areas. The route starts at Kent Park and Rec Shelter House on Middlebury Rd., offering runners a picturesque but not overly challenging terrain. There are no steep climbs or descents; instead, the elevation is mostly flat with minimal changes to keep everyone comfortable.
Kent Turkey Trot has been running for several years now, establishing itself as a beloved tradition among locals and visitors alike. In 2025, it attracted over 1000 participants, making it one of the region’s largest Thanksgiving Day races. The event not only offers runners an opportunity to compete but also supports local causes through proceeds from registration fees.
Registration for Kent Turkey Trot can be completed online at https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Kent/KentTurkeyTrot. Early packet pick-up and late registrations are available on Wednesday, November 25th, between 3:00pm to 6:00pm at Kent Park and Rec Shelter House located at 601 Middlebury Rd., Kent, OH 44240. Race day packets can be picked up from 7:30am to 9:00am on Thursday, November 26th, also at the same location.
Parked across the street from the Shelter House and Fred Fuller Park, participants will find ample space for parking their vehicles. The event is sold out with only 1400 spots available—1000 pre-registered runners and an additional 400 spaces reserved for race day entries. Runners who register early can look forward to a Winter Beanie Hat or Soft Crew Sweatshirt, while the first 900 participants will receive T-shirts during their Fun Walk/Run.
Awards are given out in various categories including age groups from 14U and above as well as overall top three male and female finishers. Medals go to the top 20 Fun Run winners with ribbons for all other Finishers, ensuring a fun day of competition and camaraderie among participants.
Kent Turkey Trot is an event that matters because it brings together families and friends in celebration of Thanksgiving Day while supporting local initiatives through its proceeds. Don’t miss this opportunity to run alongside your loved ones on such a meaningful occasion.