Thanksgiving in Pittsburgh means family, food, football, and, of course, the annual Turkey Trot! Before digging into the turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, why not lace up your sneakers and kick off the holiday by giving back to the community?
The 36th Annual YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh Turkey Trot presented by UPMC Health Plan returns on Thursday, November 26, 2026, bringing Pittsburghers together for a Thanksgiving morning filled with fitness, family fun, and a whole lot of heart.
Hosted by the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh and P3R, this beloved holiday tradition is about much more than crossing the finish line. Participants help support local efforts to address food insecurity, making it a meaningful way to celebrate the season of giving.
And here’s something extra to be thankful for: Made in PGH readers can save 20% on registration with promo code MADEINPGH20!
More Than a Race: Families Helping Families
For 36 years, the YMCA Turkey Trot has brought Pittsburghers together around a simple but powerful idea: Families Helping Families.
While participants enjoy a festive morning of running, walking, and making memories, they’re also helping address food insecurity throughout Greater Pittsburgh.
Proceeds from the event benefit YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh food pantry programs and the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, supporting efforts to help neighbors access the food they need.
And the impact goes well beyond Thanksgiving morning. Since 2020, the YMCA has distributed more than 120 tons of food to local neighborhoods through its food-security efforts.
Participants are encouraged to bring nonperishable food donations to packet pickup or on race day to support the Peoples Gas Food Drive.
It’s a reminder that a little movement can go a long way. Whether you’re running for a personal best, walking alongside family, or participating for the first time, you can be part of a community tradition that gives back.
There’s a Turkey Trot for Everyone!
You don’t have to be an experienced runner to join the fun! With four race options, the YMCA Turkey Trot welcomes everyone from competitive runners to families looking for a festive way to start Thanksgiving morning.
5 Mile presented by FedEx — 7:30 AM
Ready to work up an appetite? Take on the five-mile course and get your Thanksgiving morning off to an energetic start!
Double Gobble presented by Huntington Bank — 7:30 AM
Feeling extra ambitious? The Double Gobble challenges participants to complete both the 5 Mile and 5K events. Finish both distances and receive a festive candle from Chez Lapin!
5K presented by UPMC Health Plan — 8:30 AM
A great option for runners and walkers who want to enjoy the holiday atmosphere while supporting an important cause.
1 Mile Family Fun Run presented by Busy Beaver — 9:30 AM
Bring the whole crew! This option is perfect for little ones, parents, grandparents, and anyone looking for a shorter distance. Strollers and dogs are welcome in this event only; participants with either should line up at the back of the corral.
All registered participants receive a race bib, long-sleeve shirt, and finisher medal to commemorate the morning.
Family-Friendly Fun That Won’t Break the Bank
One of the best parts about the YMCA Turkey Trot? It’s designed to make participating as a family more affordable.
Kids ages 4 and younger can participate for free, although registration is still required. Participants ages 5–18 receive 50% off their chosen race distance.
Participants must be at least 12 years old to enter the 5 Mile or Double Gobble. There is no minimum age for the 5K or 1 Mile Family Fun Run.
Whether you’re introducing your little ones to their first race or gathering the extended family for a holiday outing, there’s an option for nearly everyone. And let’s be real—getting everyone moving before Thanksgiving dinner might just make that second helping of mashed potatoes taste even better!
Save 20% on Registration with Made in PGH!
Ready to trot for a good cause? We’ve got a special deal to help you get started!
The YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh is offering Made in PGH readers 20% off Turkey Trot registration. Use promo code MADEINPGH20 when registering.
REGISTER FOR THE 2026 YMCA TURKEY TROT: https://p3r.org/races/ymca-turkey-trot
Start Thanksgiving by Giving Back
Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, togetherness, and giving back—and the YMCA Turkey Trot brings all three together in one memorable morning.
Whether you’re racing, enjoying a walk with loved ones, or cheering on friends and family, you can take part in something bigger. So gather your favorite people, bundle up for a November morning in Pittsburgh, and make some memories before the holiday festivities begin!
After all, there’s no better way to start Thanksgiving than by helping your neighbors.
Event Details
What: 36th Annual YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh Turkey Trot presented by UPMC Health Plan
When: Thursday, November 26, 2026
Start times: 7:30–9:30 AM, depending on distance
Who: Runners, walkers, and families; age requirements vary by race
Benefiting: YMCA food pantry programs and Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank
Made in PGH discount: 20% off registration with code MADEINPGH20
Registration: https://p3r.org/races/ymca-turkey-trot
Let’s make those Thanksgiving miles matter, Pittsburgh!
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
