33rd Annual Crisis Services of North Alabama Turkey Trot 5k

The 33rd Annual Crisis Services of North Alabama Turkey Trot 5k returns to Huntsville, Alabama on November 26th, bringing together runners, walkers, strollers, and trotters for a festive Thanksgiving morning tradition. This year's event continues the legacy of supporting local community services while offering participants a scenic route through downtown Huntsville.
On race day, the crisp air and early morning light set the stage for what has become an integral part of the city’s holiday season. The streets near Spragins Hall come alive with the sounds of families gathering before dawn to take on the USATF-certified course that winds its way around familiar landmarks like the Huntsville Museum of Art, highlighting both history and progress along the route. As participants cross the finish line, they not only celebrate their personal achievements but also contribute to a cause deeply rooted in community support.
The Turkey Trot 5k has been a cornerstone event for Crisis Services of North Alabama since its inception thirty-three years ago, raising crucial funds that help provide essential crisis counseling and emergency services at no cost. Each year, hundreds gather to run or walk alongside the towering trees lining Huntsville’s streets during this typically cool November morning. The race also hosts a special Tiny Tot Turkey Trot for children ages 5 and under, featuring an adorable mascot named Tina Turkey who entertains young participants with her humorous antics as they dash across the finish line in their own mini-race at 9:00 AM sharp.
The route of this year's event follows the same path used during the HTC Twilight Run, taking runners through a mix of city parks and streets that showcase Huntsville’s unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Participants can expect to encounter slight inclines and declines as they navigate around well-known landmarks such as Big Spring International Park. The course is designed for all abilities with water stations strategically placed every mile along the way, ensuring runners stay hydrated throughout their journey.
Runners should prepare themselves for a brisk morning start under clear blue skies or perhaps light overcast conditions typical of early November in Huntsville. Average temperatures hover around 12 to 13 degrees Celsius (54-55°F) with minimal wind chill factors making it feel slightly cooler than the actual temperature reading might suggest. Humidity levels average at about 70%, which can make for a comfortable but noticeable presence of moisture in the air, especially if there is any light precipitation expected during early morning hours.

- **33rd Annual Crisis Services of North Alabama Turkey Trot 5k | 5K | fee=$30.00**
Participants interested in joining this year's event can register through the official website at [https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/Huntsville/CrisisServicesofNorthAlabamasTurkeyTrot](https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/Huntsville/CrisisServicesofNorthAlabamasTurkeyTrot). Bib and race t-shirt pickup will take place on November 24th from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., as well as on the morning of Thanksgiving, November 25th until 4:30 p.m., at Fleet Feet locations in Madison and Huntsville respectively.
On the day itself, bib pickup for registered participants will commence early at Spragins Hall starting from 6:30 a.m. sharp, providing ample time to collect your race materials before you head out onto the course by 7:45 AM when it officially closes. Age requirements are set with no minimum age limit for children in the Tiny Tot category and all others welcome above five years old.
Whether you're an avid runner or simply looking for a fun way to kick off Thanksgiving, the Crisis Services of North Alabama Turkey Trot offers something special for everyone. With its rich history spanning over three decades and strong ties to local community service organizations like Fleet Feet Sports Huntsville, this event remains more than just a race—it’s a celebration of unity and support in Huntsville on November 26th.
The 33rd Annual Crisis Services of North Alabama Turkey Trot 5k is not merely an athletic endeavor but a testament to the enduring spirit and generosity found within the community of Huntsville, Alabama.