St. Louis Turkey Trot 5K & 8K 2026

The St. Louis Turkey Trot 5K & 8K is a Thanksgiving morning run and walk in Downtown St. Louis, featuring a free half-mile youth race for kids 12 and under. It is designed for families and runners alike: strollers are permitted, wheelchair athletes begin just before the 5K field, and dogs are not allowed on the course. Participants are requested to bring canned food when picking up their race number; donations benefit Food Outreach, a St. Louis group providing nutritional support to individuals with cancer or HIV/AIDS. The downtown 5K incorporates sections of the route used by one of the nation's largest Thanksgiving parades. Runners will pass Citygarden, Busch Stadium, the Stifel Opera House, and Purina’s campus, finishing at Soldier’s Memorial with the Gateway Arch visible. The morning also offers a post-race pancake breakfast from Chris Cakes of St. Louis for 5K and kids-run participants. Swag options may include long-sleeve shirts, pom beanies, or gift cards, with unclaimed packet items given to charity partners.