Early Bird Turkey Trot 5K, 10K, 15K, & Half Marathon 2026

The Early Bird Turkey Trot takes place on the Saturday before Thanksgiving in Kennesaw and Marietta, offering in-person 5K, 10K, 15K, and half marathon races. The same distances are available virtually, allowing participation remotely. This event is part of the Five Star NTP race series and serves as an early iteration of the organizer’s Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, providing an opportunity to run before the holiday. The race originated from a Five Star NTP custom of offering a complimentary 5K entry to returning runners: those who completed any of the organizer’s races between early December and mid-November qualify for one in-person Turkey Trot 5K entry. Participants not qualifying can still register for a modest fee. Shirts, hoodies, and finisher medals are available as optional purchases, not included automatically. The event relies on local charity and volunteer assistance, with a charity partner receiving donations and volunteers earning free future races for their morning's work.