The Thanksgiving Day morn in University City sees the city come alive with a flurry of activity and anticipation as runners and walkers prepare for the annual University City Turkey Trot. The race begins early on the morning of Thursday’s holiday, inviting participants to lace up their shoes and hit the streets of Charlotte just before dawn breaks. This year marks the 13th running of this beloved community event, which has grown in both size and significance over the years.
The course winds through the heart of University City, offering a picturesque journey that captures the essence of fall in North Carolina. On race day, expect a clear autumn sky with temperatures ranging from 6.9°C to 17.5°C, making for comfortable conditions as runners traverse firm and slightly soft terrain. The light is golden and serene; the air crisp and invigorating, filled with the scent of fallen leaves and the hum of community spirit. Local residents and students alike gather along the course, creating a vibrant atmosphere that makes this race more than just a run – it's an integral part of Charlotte’s Thanksgiving Day traditions.
University City Turkey Trot has been running for 13 years now, making it one of the longest-standing events in the region. The race benefits Sickle Cell Partners of the Carolinas (SCPOC), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting patients and families affected by sickle cell disease. Every year, hundreds of participants come together not only to support this cause but also for the fun of running alongside friends old and new.
2026 University City Turkey Trot
3.1K • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $32.00
2026 University City Turkey Trot Fun Run
1K • Start: 08:45:00 • Fee: $32.00
Course & Conditions
The course is a 5K run/walk that takes runners through University City’s residential areas, offering a mix of firm and slightly soft terrain. The route follows well-maintained streets with minimal traffic on race day, making it accessible for both experienced runners and casual walkers.
At the start line, participants will find the Race Director standing alongside local volunteers, ready to welcome everyone onto the course. After crossing the finish line, runners can enjoy a mini feast featuring food, drinks, games, and music. The route includes several aid stations along its path to keep energy levels up throughout the race.
Weather on Thanksgiving Day in Charlotte is typically mild with an average temperature of 12.2°C (feels like), minimal wind at about 10 km/h, and a comfortable humidity level around 63%. Runners should prepare for clear skies that allow plenty of sunshine, which can reach up to 8 hours and 15 minutes.
Logistics
Register early by visiting https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Charlotte/UniversityCityTurkeyTrot5K before Monday, November 6, 2026 at noon. Early registration ensures you secure your free turkey-themed tee shirt. Fees for the race are $32.00 per participant.
Bib pickup is available on Saturday, November 21 from 10:30am to 5pm and Wednesday, November 25 from 10:30am to 3pm at Run For Your Life University located at 1816 E Arbors Drive, Charlotte, NC 28262. There is no packet pick-up or race day registration.
Start the race at 3024 Prosperity Church Road, Charlotte, NC 28269. The event welcomes runners of all ages and abilities; however, participants must be at least 15 years old to register individually. First-timers are encouraged to sign up early to ensure a smooth experience.
Closing
Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2026 at 8AM marks the University City Turkey Trot Charlotte, North Carolina, United States event – an unforgettable community gathering that brings together runners and walkers for fun and charity. Join us this year as we support Sickle Cell Partners of the Carolinas and celebrate the spirit of giving during the holiday season.
