A Thanksgiving Tradition That Gives Back Kick off your Thanksgiving morning with one of Arlington's favorite traditions! Join more than 4,000 runners, walkers, families, neighbors, and friends on Thursday, November 26, 2026 , as we celebrate the 21st Annual Arlington Turkey Trot . Beginning near Lyon Park Community Center, the 5K winds through the beautiful neighborhoods of Lyon Park and Ashton Heights before bringing everyone together for a morning filled with community spirit, gratitude, and plenty of Thanksgiving fun. But the Arlington Turkey Trot is about much more than crossing the finish line. Hosted by Arlington Bridge Builders , the Turkey Trot brings our community together to support local nonprofits serving Arlington residents every day. Since the race began in 2006, participants, sponsors, volunteers, donors, and community partners have helped raise more than $2 million to strengthen our community. Supporting Arlington Nonprofits Every registration helps make a difference right here in Arlington. Proceeds from the Arlington Turkey Trot benefit ten local nonprofits working every day to improve the lives of our neighbors: Arlington Free Clinic Arlington Neighborhood Village Aspire Afterschool Learning The Clothesline for Arlington Kids Culpepper Garden Kitchen of Purpose OAR of Arlington, Alexandria & Falls Church PathForward Project Belong Shirlington Employment and Education Center (SEEC) Whether you're chasing a personal best, pushing a stroller, walking with family, or showing up in your favorite turkey costume, there's a place for everyone at the Arlington Turkey Trot. Together, we're turning Thanksgiving morning into something even more meaningful by investing in a healthier, stronger, and more connected Arlington community. REGISTRATION FEES: Adults - $50 Children (6-17) - $25 Children (5 & under) - no charge (Run Sign UP is the registration platform) All Runners will receive an Arlington Turkey Trot full-color cotton T-shirt and custom timing bib with registration. You can upgrade to a long-sleeved, performance T-shirt at the end of registration for an additional $20. Every registered participant receives: Official Arlington Turkey Trot commemorative T-shirt Custom race bib with professional chip timing Post-race refreshments provided by Good Company Doughnuts All children 10 and under receive a medal - upon finishing please remember the medals are for the children only. The opportunity to support ten Arlington nonprofits serving our community Looking for performance apparel? Upgrade to a long-sleeve performance shirt during registration for an additional $20. Packet Pickup: Christ Church of Arlington 3020 N. Pershing Dr, Arlington, VA 22201 Tuesday, November 24, 12-8 pm Wednesday, November 25, 12-6 pm Thursday, November 26, 6:30-8 am (note the race starts at 8 am) Can't Join Us on Thanksgiving? You can still make a difference. If you won't be in town for Thanksgiving or aren't able to participate in this year's Arlington Turkey Trot, we invite you to support our mission with a tax-deductible donation. Every dollar helps fund the ten Arlington nonprofits benefiting from this year's event and supports programs that strengthen our community year-round. Make your tax-deductible donation here .
Course & Travel Notes
Plan for typical November weather in Arlington with temperatures ranging from a high of 58°F to a low of 42°F, and bring rain gear since about 28% of days see measurable precipitation during this time of year. The race takes place at a modest elevation of 256 feet, so altitude adjustment is not a concern. Since sunrise occurs at 7:03 AM and the race starts at 8:00 AM on November 26th, you'll have light available from the start. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is conveniently located just 3.5 miles from the venue, making it an easy arrival option for travelers.
⛰️ 256 ft elevation☀️ Typically 58°F / 42°F · 28% chance of rain✈️ Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) — 3.5 mi
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Arlington, VA. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for November 26.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Arlington, VA.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Arlington Turkey Trot 5K 2026 — Arlington, VA?
Arlington Turkey Trot 5K 2026 — Arlington, VA takes place on November 26, 2026. The race is held in Arlington, Virginia.
Where is Arlington Turkey Trot 5K 2026 — Arlington, VA held?
Arlington Turkey Trot 5K 2026 — Arlington, VA is held at 3020 N Pershing Dr in Arlington, Virginia.
Where can I find hotels near Arlington Turkey Trot 5K 2026 — Arlington, VA?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Arlington. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
