NorthStone Turkey Trot 2026: Gobble Up Some Good!
What to expect.
Thanksgiving morning in Huntersville comes with a little fresh air, a lot of community spirit, and one very good excuse to eat an extra slice of pie.
The NorthStone Turkey Trot returns on Thursday, November 26, 2026, inviting families, runners, walkers, and little gobblers to kick off the holiday with a neighborhood 5K and Kids' Fun Run.
And here's something we especially love: you can participate for free!
Whether you're chasing a personal best or simply looking for a fun way to start Thanksgiving with the family, NorthStone makes it easy to join the tradition.
Huffin' & Puffin' for Turkey & Stuffin'
That's the official motto, and we couldn't have said it better ourselves.
The NorthStone Turkey Trot winds through the NorthStone neighborhood in Huntersville, giving participants a chance to enjoy a crisp November morning before the day's feasting begins.
The 5K is open to runners and walkers, with both timed and untimed options.
Want an official finish time and a race shirt? There's an option for that.
Just want to enjoy a Thanksgiving morning walk with friends and family? You can do that for free.
No pressure. No fancy running shoes required. Just show up ready to move.
Little Turkeys Welcome!
The morning begins with a Kids' Fun Run at 8 AM, open to children ages 7 and younger.
And every little runner gets a finisher medal!
Parents can choose between a free registration or a $12 option that includes a race T-shirt.
It's a fun way to introduce younger kids to running—and give them something to show off at Thanksgiving dinner.
Race Day Schedule
The 5K starts near the NorthStone club entrance and follows a neighborhood route along NorthStone Drive and Willingdon Drive before returning to the starting area.
Free to Run. Even Better to Give.
The NorthStone Turkey Trot offers four registration options:
Race T-shirts are guaranteed for eligible paid registrations made by November 10, according to the event description. Check the registration page for current availability and registration deadlines.
Organizers encourage everyone to register in advance, even if they're choosing a free option, so they can plan for attendance and have enough medals for the kids.
Register for the NorthStone Turkey Trot →
Running for Moms Who Need a Helping Hand
Here's what makes this Turkey Trot particularly meaningful.
100% of event proceeds benefit A Giving Spirit Foundation, a Lake Norman-based nonprofit that provides financial assistance to Charlotte-area mothers facing medical crises.
When serious illness strikes, everyday expenses don't stop.
The foundation helps mothers and their families manage essential costs such as medical bills, groceries, utilities, and rent during incredibly difficult times.
Since 2008, the organization reports providing nearly $400,000 in grants to women and families in need.
It's a beautiful reminder that Thanksgiving is about more than what's on our own tables.
Even if you choose the free race option, consider making a donation during registration or on race morning.
A Little Friendly Competition
For runners looking to make their Thanksgiving morning a competitive one, the timed 5K includes awards for the top overall male and female finishers, along with age-group recognition.
The Kids' Fun Run is all about participation, with a finisher medal for every child.
And for everyone else?
The reward is knowing you've started Thanksgiving doing something good for yourself and your neighbors.
LKN Life Tip: This is one of the best-value Thanksgiving traditions around Lake Norman because the untimed 5K and Kids' Fun Run are completely free. Register the little ones ahead of time so organizers can reserve their medals, and consider donating to A Giving Spirit Foundation. A little generosity is a wonderful way to start Thanksgiving!
Ready to Trot?
Online registration is advertised through November 25, although individual registration categories may close earlier.
The organizers welcome participants who show up on Thanksgiving morning for the free, untimed 5K, but timing-chip registration won't be available that day.
Bring the family, wear something festive if you're feeling ambitious, and enjoy a morning of movement and giving back.
The turkey can wait another hour.
NorthStone Turkey Trot — Official Registration & Details →
Common Questions
When is the NorthStone Turkey Trot 2026?
Thursday, November 26, 2026, on Thanksgiving morning. The Kids' Fun Run begins at 8 AM, and the 5K starts at 8:30 AM.
Where is the NorthStone Turkey Trot?
The race takes place at NorthStone, 15801 Northstone Drive, Huntersville, NC 28078. The 5K starts near the club entrance.
Is the NorthStone Turkey Trot free?
Yes! The untimed 5K Run/Walk and Kids' Fun Run are free. Paid options are available for participants who want a race T-shirt or official timing.
How much does the timed 5K cost?
The timed 5K costs $20 and includes a timing chip and race T-shirt. Registration processing fees may apply.
Can I walk the NorthStone Turkey Trot?
Absolutely! The 5K welcomes walkers as well as runners. You can participate in the free untimed event.
Is there a race for children?
Yes! The Kids' Fun Run starts at 8 AM and is open to children ages 7 and younger.
Do children receive medals?
Yes. Every participant in the Kids' Fun Run receives a finisher medal, including children registered for the free option.
Do I have to register in advance?
Advance registration is strongly encouraged, particularly for children, so organizers can plan for medals and attendance. The event also welcomes walk-up participants for the free untimed 5K.
Do I need to live in NorthStone to participate?
The event is publicly advertised with registration open to participants. No NorthStone residency requirement is stated in the event information.
What charity does the NorthStone Turkey Trot support?
The event benefits A Giving Spirit Foundation, a Lake Norman nonprofit that helps mothers facing medical crises pay for essential family expenses.
Can I donate without running?
Yes. Donations can be made through the event registration page, even if you don't participate in the race.
When does packet pickup begin?
Packet pickup begins at 7 AM on Thanksgiving morning.
Where can I register?
Visit the official NorthStone Turkey Trot registration page.