Waynesville Sunrise Rotary Turkey Trot

Experience the Waynesville Sunrise Rotary Turkey Trot 5K on November 26th as we celebrate Thanksgiving with runners, families, and friends. This beloved tradition kicks off your holiday festivities with an early morning run around picturesque Lake Junaluska, enhancing the joy of the season.
The course loops clockwise around the serene lake, offering a perfect blend of scenic views and smooth running paths. The race starts and finishes at Weldon Gym, providing convenient access to amenities and post-race celebrations.
This year marks the sixth edition with an increased capacity of 800 participants, promising a vibrant atmosphere and potential sell-out scenario well before Thanksgiving Day. Early registration is strongly encouraged to secure your spot in this festive event.
All pre-registered runners who sign up by November 4th at 1:00 PM EDT are guaranteed a race shirt tailored to their size; after that date, availability will depend on supply. For those looking for refreshments post-race, join us for drinks and snacks before the awards ceremony.
Awards await top performers across various categories including overall male and female winners, masters (40+), and age groups from 9 & Under through 75 & Over. No double dipping is allowed to ensure fair competition in each category.
Comfortable indoor restrooms are available at Weldon Gymnasium when conditions permit; additional portable toilets provide extra convenience. Dedicated race parking can be found at the Bethea Welcome Center, Center for Evangelism, York Dining Commons, and along Melody Lane’s swimming pool area. Street parking is limited to marked spaces only.
Proceeds from this event support local Haywood County initiatives such as scholarships through the Haywood Schools Foundation, Habitat for Humanity projects, and community development programs like Mountain Projects and Helene recovery efforts.
Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, lace up your shoes and join us in celebrating Thanksgiving with a Turkey Trot that promises to be both fun and memorable.