It may only be September, but around Kingfish Bay, it’s never too early to start talking about one of our favorite Thanksgiving traditions: the Calabash Turkey Trot.
We’ve been part of this event for many years now, and it honestly never gets old. Maybe we’re a little biased because the race runs right through our neighborhood. Pun absolutely intended.
The 12th Annual Calabash Turkey Trot takes place Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 26, 2026, bringing runners, walkers, volunteers and spectators together for a fun start to the holiday. Organized by Coastal Race Productions, the event includes a 10K, 5K and 1-mile race, plus a Three-Race Challenge for those ambitious enough to complete all three.
The 10K kicks things off at 7:00 a.m., followed by the 5K at 8:30 a.m. and the 1-mile race at 9:15 a.m. Both the 5K and 10K courses are certified, and walkers are welcome within the posted time limits. And because this is Thanksgiving, participants can look forward to pumpkin pie near the Calabash waterfront after crossing the finish line.
You can find registration, pricing and complete race-day information on the official Calabash Turkey Trot website.
Our Favorite Part? The Race Comes Through Kingfish Bay
The 5K and 10K courses actually wind through Kingfish Bay, which turns Thanksgiving morning into something of a neighborhood event.
Over the years, we’ve loved seeing residents participate in just about every way possible. Some lace up their shoes and join the race. Others volunteer to help keep things moving smoothly. And then there are our course-side supporters, who come outside with coffee, encouragement and some pretty fantastic homemade signs.
You don’t have to be a runner to be part of the fun. The Calabash Turkey Trot also depends on volunteers for course support, water stations and other race-day needs. If running or walking isn’t for you, signing up to volunteer is another great way to get involved. Or simply make a sign and cheer. We fully support that option, too.
A Little Slice of Life in Calabash
One of the things we love about living in Calabash, NC is that community traditions like this are part of the experience. Thanksgiving morning isn’t just happening somewhere across town. At Kingfish Bay, the race literally comes to our front door.
It’s a small example of what makes living here special. Kingfish Bay may be a private gated community, but our residents are very much connected to the larger Calabash community around us. So whether you plan to run the 10K, walk the 5K, volunteer along the course or stand outside with a truly excellent sign, we hope you’ll join us this Thanksgiving.
Register or learn more about the 2026 Calabash Turkey Trot.
P.S. Have you seen this year’s medals?! 🏅🏴☠️
This year is an extra-special one for Coastal Race Productions, as the 12th Annual Calabash Turkey Trot will mark their 100th race! To celebrate, they’re digging up some special treasure, and judging by this year’s pirate-inspired medals, they understood the assignment. Whether you’re running the 1 Mile, 5K, 10K or taking on the full Three-Race Challenge, these might be some of our favorite medals yet.
One more reason to join us Thanksgiving morning! Will we see you on the course!?
