2026 Turkey Trot Info

 

This year marks our 18th annual 5k race on Thanksgiving morning, which has grown to be the largest Turkey Trot in NH with over 3,000 runners, so we really know what we are doing. Join us for a fun morning to start your holiday!

 

Date: Thursday, November 26, 2026 (Thanksgiving morning)

 

Race Start: 8:30 AM sharp

 

Location: Strawberry Banke, Portsmouth, NH, for registration

               

Pierce Island Boat Launch for the race start

 

Cost: $30* per adult (20+)

          $20* (13-19)

          $10* 12 & under

          (no cost for stroller passengers)

*Registration fees increase $5 on 10/31/2026

 

Bib Pickup: Wednesday, November 25th, from 3 PM to 6 PM at Little Harbor School, Portsmouth (MAP)

Also, Race Day starting at 7 AM at Strawbery Banke near the start

(but it is much easier on Wednesday PM)

 

Course Map (Click here for MapMyRun Map)

 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

 

Can I pick up other people’s bibs and t-shirts for them?

Yes! Just make sure they know and want you to. On Wednesday, we will have a lookup board to help you find their names and numbers. You can pick up as many as you want. Just make sure you give the correct number to the right person, please!

 

Where do we park?

There is no parking right at the start, but because it is a holiday, street parking is free and plentiful all over Portsmouth. (https://www.portsmouthnh.gov/publicworks/parkportsmouth/parking-locations-map-pricing)

 

Do you have electronic timing?

Yes! We are proud to work with Millennium Running, one of the premier companies in the US. Every runner/walker receives a time quickly after they finish. Your time does not start until you cross the mat, so unless you are very fast, do not crowd toward the front of the pack. 

 

Do you have prizes?

We award free entries for next year to the top overall finishers and a choice of merchandise in age-group categories. We don't have an awards ceremony, because everyone wants to head out for the holiday. Millennium delivers quick results, but if you think you qualify, come check it out at the table. 

 

Do you have T-shirts?

Everyone who registers before October 15th gets a short-sleeve tech t-shirt. We also have other swag for purchase, like previous year’s t-shirts, hats, and socks. They can be purchased ahead of time when registering or also on bib pickup day.

 

Do you have food?

We have water, coffee, and bananas. We have learned that nobody wants to eat our food when they are headed out to eat a Thanksgiving feast.

 

Are there bathrooms available?

We have port-a-potties at both Strawbery Banke and on Pierce Island. They do get busy, so try not to wait until the last minute. And they will be freezing - it is November in New Hampshire!

 

Do you have water stations?

Yes, we have two strategically placed water stations to quench your thirst and give you encouragement as you blaze past. 

 

Do you allow walkers?

Definitely! Our last finishers last year came across in just over an hour. We politely ask that you try to finish before 75 minutes, so we can get our volunteers home for Thanksgiving.

 

Can I run with a stroller?

Yes, but we ask that you start at the back of the race because you are wide and hard to pass. Starting at the back does not affect your time, which only begins when you cross the mat. You will impress everyone you pass, pushing your triplets.

 

Can I run with my dog?

Sadly, No. It is not permitted under our agreement with Portsmouth. Besides, it is a boisterous event that would stress any dog. Please leave them at home on the couch with a supply of treats.

 

Can I run with headphones?

We won’t stop you, but it is never a good idea to run a race with headphones. You can’t hear other runners, instructions, or hazards (we try to eliminate most of those!)

 

Are there cars on the course?

We have over 40 marshals and police out on the course to try to isolate the runners from car traffic. However, it is a quirky old city with lots of streets and driveways, so watch for the occasional rogue car. Keep your wits about you, and this is another reason to not wear headphones.

 

Should I wear a costume?

If the feeling hits you, please do! Who doesn't love a Thanksgiving-themed costume, like a turkey on your head! Occasionally, we might give out a prize or two to a particularly good outfit!

 

My friend is not registered. Can he still run with me?

No, definitely not. We have designed this race and are permitted for a certain number of runners. Bandits don't sign the waiver and don't support our deserving charities. Nobody likes bandits!

 

 

Do you have a coat check/bag check?

No. That would be way too hard to keep track of, and we would probably lose your stuff. Please leave anything you can’t run with in your car.

 

Is there any place to stay warm until the race starts?

No. Please dress appropriately. That is part of the charm of demonstrating your tough New England side, running outside in November! 

 

Is the race rain or shine?

In New Hampshire, we are tough. It has to be severe and a matter of safety (blizzard, hurricane, zombie apocalypse) before we will cancel. We do not have a rain date. Remember, this is for charity. If we have to cancel, we will feel very bad, but will still send your money to our charities. 

 

I can’t make it to the race. Can I give someone else my number?

No. You signed the liability waiver, and they did not. Besides, your number helps us identify you if you have any issues and to categorize you by age group.

 

I can’t make it to the race. Can I get a refund?

No. This is for charity. Thank you for your donation.

 

I can’t make it to the race. Can you mail me my t-shirt?

No. This is for charity. Thank you for your donation.

 

I have another question...

Email us at seacoastrotary@gmail.com