5K Run/Walk

Welcome to the YMCA Dallas Turkey Trot 5K, an annual Thanksgiving tradition in the heart of Dallas, Texas. This event has been going strong for over 50 years, and we are thrilled to invite you to participate. Whether you're a seasoned runner, a first-timer, or just looking for a fun family walk to start the day, the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot 5K is perfect for you. The certified 5K course begins at City Hall on Young Street, heads into Deep Ellum, travels through the heart of downtown on Main St, then ends on Young Street in front of Pioneer Plaza and the Dallas Police Memorial.

The Turkey Trot 5K is a family-friendly event that is perfect for all ages and fitness levels. Whether you're an experienced runner or just starting out, this race is an excellent opportunity to challenge yourself and have fun while doing it.

The race takes place on Thanksgiving morning, making it the perfect way to kick off your holiday festivities. You'll get to enjoy the crisp fall weather and the beautiful scenery of Dallas as you run through the city streets.

In addition to being a fun event, the Turkey Trot 5K also supports a great cause. Proceeds from the race go towards supporting the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas and its mission to strengthen communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

We encourage all participants to come dressed in their best turkey-themed attire! There will also be post-race festivities, including food, music, and activities for the whole family to enjoy.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for the YMCA Dallas Turkey Trot 5K today and join us for a morning of fun, fitness, and giving back to the community. We can't wait to see you at the starting line!

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5K Run/Walk FAQs

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Q: Is there assistance available if I can’t do the whole course?
A: Yes, we have paramedics, radio operators and police officers patrolling the course. If you need assistance, just ask a volunteer or an officer for help. We also have water stops and restrooms located on the course.

Q: Do you need to be timed to receive an award?
A: Yes, only runners/wheelchair racers with a timed bib are eligible to receive age group and overall prizes/awards.

Q: Are there Finisher Medals?
A: There will be a limited number of finisher medals at both the 8-mile and 5K finish lines. We cannot guarantee that every participant will receive a medal.

Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Yes, well-socialized, non-aggressive dogs are welcome at the Trot. Dogs may come as spectators with their owners or they may participate in the Trot by completing a Dog Registration and receiving a Turkey Trot dog bandanna. Dogs will not be permitted in the Timed Runner Corral. Dog owners are solely responsible for their pets’ actions and must agree to follow the Dog/Stroller Policy* for the safety of all participants. *Please see Dog/Stroller Policy below.

*Dog/Stroller Policy:

Participants with dogs and/or strollers are not permitted in the Timed Runner Corral.
Participants with dogs and/or strollers should line up at the back of the run/walk pack.  Let the runners get up ahead so all may enjoy the course safely.
We recommend participants with dogs and/or strollers walk the course, however if you choose to run the course with your dog/stroller, please use extreme caution for the safety of your child,your dog and others running around you. We want all pups, kids and participants to complete the course safely.
Only dogs who are well-socialized with other dogs and people should be brought to the Trot.  For the safety of all, please use your good judgment knowing your dog’s personality and behaviors.
Dog owner/handlers must be 18 years of age or older.
Dog owners/handlers may only be responsible for one dog at a time during the Trot.
All dogs must be on an appropriate leash at all times.  Fixed length/static leashes not longer than 3 feet should be used to prevent a hazard to other participants.
Dog owner/handler is expected to be a responsible dog owner, provide appropriate water and pick up after their pet at all times.

Timed Runner FAQs

Q: Is there a charge if I choose to be timed?
A: Yes. The price difference of $5 is reflected in the registration fee.

Q: Is there a corral for timed runners?
A: The Timed Runner Corral will open at 7:30 a.m. and close at 8:25 a.m. or once it is at capacity, whichever comes first. We highly recommend that Timed runners arrive and line up early for the 8:30 start time if they want to qualify for overall awards. To allow for physical distancing before the race, the timed corral has a limit of around 900 people. Your timed run doesn't begin until you cross the start line, and you must be timed to be eligible for overall and age group awards. Age group awards are based on time from start to finish, and will not be affected by your actual start time.

Q: I’m a timed runner, can I run with my dog or stroller?
A: Dogs/Strollers are prohibited from the timed runner corral. You can run with a pup or stroller and still qualify for age group awards but you will have to line up toward the back of the run/walk pack.

*Dog/Stroller Policy:
Participants with dogs and/or strollers are not permitted in the Timed Runner Corral.
Participants with dogs and/or strollers should line up at the back of the run/walk pack. Let the runners get up ahead so all may enjoy the course safely.
We recommend participants with dogs and/or strollers walk the course, however if you choose to run the course with your dog/stroller, please use extreme caution for the safety of your child, your dog and others running around you. We want all pups, kids and participants to complete the course safely.
Only dogs who are well-socialized with other dogs and people should be brought to the Trot. For the safety of all, please use your good judgment knowing your dog’s personality and behaviors.
Dog owner/handlers must be 18 years of age or older.
Dog owners/handlers may only be responsible for one dog at a time during the Trot.
All dogs must be on an appropriate leash at all times. Fixed length/static leashes not longer than 3 feet should be used to prevent a hazard to other participants.
Dog owner/handler is expected to be a responsible dog owner, provide appropriate water and pick up after their pet at all times.

Q: Do you need to be timed to receive an award?
A: Yes, only runners with a timed bib are eligible to receive age group and overall prizes/awards.

Q: Are there Finisher Medals?
A: There will be a limited number of finisher medals at both the 8-mile and 5K finish lines. We cannot guarantee that every participant will receive a medal.