The Des Moines Turkey Trot
- Date Thu 27th November 2025 - Thu 4th December 2025
- Time 9:00AM CST
- Location Des Moines, Iowa
- Price $17.58 - $160.98
- Races 4 races
- Distances 5km
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Event summary
Join the excitement at the Des Moines Turkey Trot, taking place from November 27 to December 4, 2025, in the vibrant city of Des Moines, Polk County. Recognized as one of the "Top Turkey Trots in the Country" by Runners World Magazine, this festive event has become Iowa's largest Thanksgiving Day tradition. Participants can choose between a scenic 5K or a challenging 5-mile race, both of which showcase the beauty and charm of downtown Des Moines.
Starting at the iconic Des Moines Courthouse, runners will traverse through the picturesque Court Ave Entertainment District, cross the Des Moines River, and enjoy the sights of the Historic East Village. The course features a thrilling uphill route around the stunning State Capitol Complex, offering breathtaking views of the skyline. As they make their way back, 5-mile participants will enjoy a delightful detour to the Botanical Center before crossing the Women's Achievement Bridge and finishing in the heart of downtown. Don't miss out on this exhilarating holiday run that not only helps you burn off those holiday calories but also creates unforgettable memories with family and friends!
Starting at the iconic Des Moines Courthouse, runners will traverse through the picturesque Court Ave Entertainment District, cross the Des Moines River, and enjoy the sights of the Historic East Village. The course features a thrilling uphill route around the stunning State Capitol Complex, offering breathtaking views of the skyline. As they make their way back, 5-mile participants will enjoy a delightful detour to the Botanical Center before crossing the Women's Achievement Bridge and finishing in the heart of downtown. Don't miss out on this exhilarating holiday run that not only helps you burn off those holiday calories but also creates unforgettable memories with family and friends!
Organiser's Description
Named as one of the "Top Turkey Trots In The Country" by Runners World Magazine, the Des Moines Turkey Trot is Iowa's largest Thanksgiving Day Tradition.
The run is like a highlight reel of Des Moines so get ready to experience downtown Des Moines, or show it off to your visiting family and friends, while burning off some holiday carbs.
Athletes will start their Thanksgiving run with the Des Moines Courthouse as their backdrop in the heart of the Court Ave Entertainment District. From there, both 5K and 5-mile runners will make their way across the Des Moines River and through the center of the Historic East Village. A slight uphill will run athletes around the whole of the State Capitol Complex which offers the most famous view of downtown Des Moines. From there, it's downhill for home!
5 Mile Athletes will finish their holiday "tour" with a scenic jaunt to the Botanical Center before returning across the Women's Achievement Bridge and finishing by running through the heart of downtown.
The run is like a highlight reel of Des Moines so get ready to experience downtown Des Moines, or show it off to your visiting family and friends, while burning off some holiday carbs.
Athletes will start their Thanksgiving run with the Des Moines Courthouse as their backdrop in the heart of the Court Ave Entertainment District. From there, both 5K and 5-mile runners will make their way across the Des Moines River and through the center of the Historic East Village. A slight uphill will run athletes around the whole of the State Capitol Complex which offers the most famous view of downtown Des Moines. From there, it's downhill for home!
5 Mile Athletes will finish their holiday "tour" with a scenic jaunt to the Botanical Center before returning across the Women's Achievement Bridge and finishing by running through the heart of downtown.
Races
-
The Des Moines Turkey Trot 5K + 5 Mile
Incl. $4.07 Fee
Thu 27th November 2025 (9:00AM CST)
$42.07
Athletes will start their Thanksgiving run with the Des Moines Courthouse as their backdrop in the heart of the Court Ave District. From there, both 5K and 5-mile runners will make their way across the Des Moines River and through the center of the Historic East Village. A slight uphill will run athletes around the whole of the State Capitol Complex which offers the most famous view of downtown Des Moines. From there, it's downhill for home! -
Family of 4 Turkey Trot Entry
Incl. $10.98 Fee
Thu 27th November 2025 (9:00AM CST)
$160.98
-
Des Moines Turkey Trot - Tot Trot
Incl. $2.58 Fee
Thu 27th November 2025 (10:15AM CST)
$17.58
-
Virtual Des Moines Turkey Trot
Incl. $4.01 Fee
$41.01
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