What Time Does the Turkey Trot Start? A Runner’s Guide

Are you gearing up to run in a Turkey Trot race this Thanksgiving season? As one of the most popular Turkey Day traditions nationwide these fun holiday footraces attract runners of all levels to pound the pavement on the morning of Thanksgiving. But if it’s your first time trotting you may be wondering – what time does the Turkey Trot start?

Turkey Trots can vary in start times based on the race, but most kick off in the early morning hours before participants sit down for their big Thanksgiving feasts later that day. Typical Turkey Trot start times range from 8AM to 10AM, though some can be earlier or later depending on the city and race organizers.

As a Turkey Trot newbie, make sure to do your research ahead of time so you know exactly when to arrive to the start line Here’s a runner’s guide to Turkey Trot start times so you can gobble up those miles without missing the kickoff.

Check the Race Website

The first place to look when determining your Turkey Trot start time is the official race website. Most will have a homepage with key race day details including the start time and location. For example, the YMCA Turkey Trot in Buffalo, NY lists a start time of 9AM sharp right on the event homepage.

Race websites also typically include an FAQ section or race day information page with logistics. Look for timelines that cover when gear check opens, when the starting line closes, etc. Many races close the start 15-30 minutes prior so don’t cut it too close!

Read Pre-Race Emails

In addition to the race website, check any pre-race emails or confirmations sent by the race director. These often include important reminders about start times, packet pickup times, parking instructions and more. Make sure to click any links provided for full details.

For example, the registration confirmation for the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot reminds participants that the race kicks off at 8AM but streets close at 7AM. So be sure to read those pre-race emails thoroughly.

Scope Out Previous Year’s Results

Another trick is to look up results from the previous year’s Turkey Trot online. Search the race name and year and you’ll typically find details like start time and finishers listed. This gives you an idea of when the race typically kicks off each year.

For instance, results show the 2021 YMCA Buffalo Niagara Turkey Trot started promptly at 9AM on Thanksgiving morning. Assuming the start time doesn’t change much year to year, you can expect a 9AM kickoff.

Ask Around Locally

If it’s a well-known local race, see if any running friends or acquaintances in the area know the typical start time. Reach out on social media or running forums to tap into the collective knowledge.

Veteran trotters will have the inside scoop on when the starting gun goes off. This word-of-mouth insight can confirm or fill in gaps about start times not listed.

Plan Your Thanksgiving Schedule

When determining Turkey Trot start times, make sure to balance the race kickoff with your Thanksgiving Day schedule. Most trots start early so runners can get home with enough time to shower, rest, and enjoy a Thanksgiving meal after finishing.

Think about travel time to the race start and build in extra buffer. Expect crowded streets and parking areas on race morning. Give yourself at least an hour to park, walk to the start area, check gear, warm up, and get to the starting corral. Earlier is better to avoid last minute stress!

Arrive Early for an On-Site Confirm

If still in doubt of the exact start time, your best bet is to arrive to the race location extra early on Thanksgiving morning to check signage. Race organizers will have the official start time displayed on banners, bibs, posters, etc.

Scoping out the in-person signs as soon as you arrive will alleviate any uncertainty. Then you can relax until the starting gun goes off.

Listen for Announcements and National Anthem

Another way to identify the start time on race morning is to listen for announcements over the loudspeaker and for the national anthem. Most Turkey Trots play the anthem 10-15 minutes prior to the start as a final call for runners to get in their corrals.

When you hear the patriotic tune and countdown announcements, you’ll know you have only minutes until go-time!

Follow the Turkey Trot Hashtag

Lastly, follow the race hashtag on social media for real time updates on Thanksgiving morning. Race organizers and participants will post updates letting you know when the starting line opens, if the start is delayed, and when the race kicks off.

Monitoring the hashtag is a great way to stay in the loop on start times and any potential delays due to weather or other factors.

Enjoy the Fun Run Vibes

Above all, relax and soak up the festive vibes on race morning. Part of the fun of Turkey Trots is gathering with the local running community to celebrate the holiday over a few fun miles.

Listen for the start time but don’t stress! Turkey Trots are informal, family-friendly affairs. Start times are guidelines more than rigid rules. The memories made trotting with friends and neighbors are what matter most.

Whether you’re chasing a new PR or trotting in costume, Turkey Trots offer the ultimate way to kick off Thanksgiving on the right foot. Just arrive early, keep an ear out for the start time, and get ready to gobble down some miles before your feast!