Madison Turkey Trot 5k

Madison Turkey Trot 5k is a 5K run and walk (3.1 miles) held in Madison, Wisconsin, on Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2026. No start time is listed for this edition, and the organizers note that event details may change, so it is worth confirming the schedule as the date approaches. The format is simple: one distance, open to runners and walkers, on the holiday morning.

A Thanksgiving 5K in Wisconsin is first and foremost a cold-weather race. Plan on a hat, gloves and a wind-resistant layer, and warm up with ten minutes of easy jogging rather than standing still at the start. If you are running for a time, four to six weeks of steady easy mileage with one weekly session of short repeats at goal pace will have you ready. If you are walking or jogging with family, a couple of comfortable 3-mile outings beforehand are plenty. Either way, the short distance means you will be back indoors well before the holiday meal.