The Annual Pequot Runners Thanksgiving Day Race

For nearly five decades, the Pequot Runners Thanksgiving Day Race has been the official start to the holiday season in Fairfield County. What began as a small club run in 1978 has grown into one of Connecticut's most beloved and celebrated road races.

Join thousands of runners, walkers, and families as we come together to work up an appetite, celebrate community, and support incredible local charities. It's more than a race; it's a tradition.

A large group of runners starting a race on a rainy day, crossing a pedestrian crosswalk with overcast skies and leafless trees in the background.

Race Details & Information

Everything you need to know to be a part of the day.

Race Day Schedule

  • 6:30 AM: Race Day Registration & Packet Pickup Opens

  • 8:15 AM: 5-Mile Run & 2.6-Mile Walk Start

  • 9:30 AM (approx.): Awards Ceremony Begins

The Courses

Our scenic courses wind through the beautiful, historic neighborhoods of Southport and Fairfield.

  • 5-Mile Run: A challenging and scenic USATF-certified course featuring rolling hills that will make you earn your turkey!

  • 2.6-Mile Walk: A flat and scenic loop perfect for families, strollers, and those who prefer a more leisurely pace.

Registration

Online registration is fast, easy, and strongly encouraged!

Registration opens September 1st 2025

Packet Pickup

Save time on race morning! Pick up your bib and shirt ahead of time.

  • Location: Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, 385 Center Street, Southport

  • Dates & Times:

    • Monday, November 24th: 10:00 AM ‐ 1:00 PM, and 6:00 PM ‐ 7:30 PM

    • Tuesday, November 25th: 10:00 AM ‐ 1:00 PM, and 6:00 PM ‐ 7:30 PM

    • Wednesday, November 26th: 10:00 AM ‐ 1:00 PM, and 6:00 PM ‐ 7:30 PM

  • Race Day Pickup: Begins at 6:30 AM

Awards & Amenities

  • Awards will be given to the top three overall male and female finishers.

  • Age group awards will be presented to the top three finishers in each division.

  • Enjoy post-race refreshments, music, and a festive community atmosphere at the finish line!

Run for a Reason

This race is the largest fundraiser of the year for Pequot Runners, and the proceeds are donated back into the community. By participating, you are directly supporting local non-profits focused on youth development, community health, and human services. Thank you for helping us give back!

Get Involved!

This event is only possible with the help of our amazing community partners.

  • Volunteer: We need volunteers to help with everything from registration to water stops. It's a fun way to be part of the excitement!

  • Become a Sponsor: Showcase your business to thousands of local residents while supporting a great cause. For sponsorship opportunities, please go here

Three people standing behind a table filled with folded Thanksgiving shirts, all wearing orange shirts with a turkey graphic and event logo, smiling in a community center.
Four women running in a marathon on a rainy day near the coast, wearing athletic clothes and bib numbers, smiling and enjoying the race.
Two people dressed in lion costumes at a Pequot Runners event, standing in front of a backdrop with the event name and logo, smiling and posing.