CPI Security Charlotte Turkey Trot

The largest road race in North Carolina, more than 12,000 people, on Thanksgiving morning at SouthPark Mall. There is an 8K, a 5K run or walk, a one mile fun run and a free Tot Trot for kids eight and under, so every generation of the family can do something. Finishers get medals and adults of age get a beer at the finish. It has been a Charlotte tradition for 37 years and it is regularly named one of the best turkey trots in the country.

The course starts next to the mall and finishes in front of Symphony Park, and the whole thing is over by late morning, which leaves plenty of time to get home for the meal. A lot of families make it the annual reunion point for out of town relatives and old classmates.

What to expect

• 8K, 5K, one mile fun run and a Tot Trot
• Start and finish at SouthPark Mall
• More than 12,000 participants, the biggest race in the state
• Finisher medals, post race festival and a beer for adults
• Free for kids eight and under

Schedule

• 8 a.m. 8K and 5K start
• Later morning 1 mile and Tot Trot
• Post race Festival in the mall lot

Plan your visit

Registration opens Sept. 1. Packet pickups run in October and November at SouthPark, Birkdale, Fort Mill, Matthews, Myers Park, Pineville and Waverly. Get there by 7:15 a.m. for parking.

Good to know

• Park in the SouthPark Mall decks and lots; they open early on race day.
• Costumes are common. Turkey hats, pilgrim gear and full bird suits all show up.
• Dress in layers you can shed; Thanksgiving mornings range from 30 degrees to 60.