Mesa Turkey Trot

On the crisp morning of November 26, 2026, runners and their families will gather at Red Mountain Park in East Mesa for the long-standing tradition of Arizona's Original Thanksgiving Day Community Race Event—the 58th Annual Mesa Turkey Trot. This beloved race offers a warm family atmosphere with three distinct options: a competitive 10K, an equally engaging 5K, and a fun-filled one-mile run designed to welcome participants of all ages.
The event kicks off at dawn when the mile-long Fun Run begins at 8 AM for families looking to enjoy a relaxed start before tackling more challenging distances. At 8:20 AM, serious runners will head out on the scenic route around Red Mountain Park for the 10K race, followed by the 5K starting just twenty minutes later at 8:40 AM.
The races are professionally timed and chip-timed with real-time results provided by StartLine Racing. Participants can expect to receive a custom event finisher's medal as well as a tech t-shirt for each distance run, adding an extra layer of excitement and memorabilia to the day’s events.
For those who prefer to socialize before heading out onto the course, there is a pre-race "Athlete's Brunch" offering granola bars, fruit, water, and other essentials starting at 6:30 AM. The race itself takes place on paved roads that wind through Red Mountain Park’s scenic landscapes, providing runners with picturesque views of the surrounding area.
The event also includes male and female age group awards for top three finishers in all age groups (excluding virtual participants) from ages 8 to over 75 years old. This ensures everyone has a chance at recognition regardless of their pace or experience level.
Registration is crucial, as no exceptions will be made once the race sells out. Participants are encouraged to register early and take advantage of multiple packet pick-up opportunities on November 24th through November 26th to avoid last-minute rush.
On race day, parking will be available at Red Mountain High School across from Red Mountain Park. The event is wheelchair and stroller-friendly but requires participants in these categories to start at the back of the pack for safety reasons. Leashed pets are welcome too, provided they follow similar starting guidelines.
After crossing the finish line, runners can look forward to a celebratory atmosphere with awards given out around 9:30 AM as well as opportunities to volunteer and help make this community event even more special. The Mesa Turkey Trot is not just about running—it’s an experience that celebrates family, fitness, and the spirit of Thanksgiving in Arizona's heartland.
Join us at Red Mountain Park for a day filled with joyous competition, beautiful scenery, and heartfelt camaraderie.