For more information call (313) 247-4149 or visit www.theparade.org/turkeytrot/index

As long as our 20,000 participant limit has not been reached, late registration is also done in the Michigan Hall at Cobo Center on November 21st from noon – 7:00PM, and on Thanksgiving morning from 6AM – 7AM (cash or check only – NO credit cards).

What time does the course close?
Because of the Parade, the entire course must be clear by 9:45AM. The starting line closes at 8:20 AM

Do people really wear costumes?
Last year over 1,000 runners and walkers wore costumes. It’s what makes the race “The Parade before the Parade!”
Wearing costumes for the Turkey Trot is an honored tradition and highly encouraged! Prizes are given for originality and execution. Team themes are especially welcome. Costumes, while encouraged, are not required.

Do you offer Gear Check?
Yes. You can check in your sweats and other items in the Gear Check area located in Michigan Hall adjacent to packet pick-up.

How can I meet my family after the race?
There will be a family reunion area with alphabetized signage located next to Gear Check inside Cobo’s Michigan room.

Is there food after the race?
Water will now be available just past the finish line.
The food area will be located at the westside of the Michigan room in Cobo Center. We will continue to offer a variety of fun food after the race. You can smell the popcorn when you walk into the hall!

Are strollers allowed on the course?
Yes, we do allow people to run with baby joggers or strollers but we ask that you start in the back of the pack for your safety and the safety of others.

Can I run with my dog?
Yes, but please be mindful of interfering with other runners. There will be doggie water stops next to the runner water stops and doggie treats at the finish line.

Are skateboards, rollerblades, scooters or bikes allowed?
No. These modes of covering the course are a safety issue; please keep these items off the course.

Is there entertainment on the course?
Cheer groups are being added to the course. You’ll also see our giant inflatables at the major turns and two fun stations besides the water stops. Say “hi” to the volunteers at the Christmas Cookie and Candy Cane stations. And look for the giant big heads at the start and finish lines.

If I am injured and/or cannot attend the event can I get a refund or transfer my entry to someone else? We have a no refund, transfer or deferment policy for all race entries. You can pick up your shirt.

Can I run in more than one race?
The 5K and 10K races are run simultaneously. They share the same course for the first 2.5 miles. Many participants run the Mashed Potato Mile with their families, or as a warm up for the longer race. Just remember there are only 15 minutes separating the start of the Mile and the first wave of the 5K/10K. 5K and 10K participants do not need to pay an additional fee for the Mashed Potato Mile. You cannot run the 5/10km if you only signed up for the mile.

What is the Mashed Potato Mile?
We are encouraging kids 12 and under and adults over 65 to participate in this one mile fun run/walk that starts at 7:30AM in front of Cobo Center at the top of the ramp on Washington & Jefferson. A token award will handed out to all finishers.

Can I walk in an event, or do I have to be a runner?
Walkers are definitely encouraged to participate in the 5km walk that starts at 8:10am. Just remember, that because of the start of the Parade, the course must be cleared by 9:45AM.
I paid for parade tickets (Grandstand Seating) when I registered, where are the tickets? Where are the seats?

If you registered on-line your tickets will be mailed to you with a map to the grandstand location. Tickets are also available at the satellite locations and at Cobo Center registration. Turkey Trot Grandstand seating is usually on the west side of Woodward at Grand Circus Park . We will have special Turkey Trot Grandstand Greeters to direct you when you arrive near the reserved section.

How do I know if I am registered?
A confirmation will be sent via email within 24 hours after you’ve registered. The Turkey Trot web site will also list your bib number; show which event you signed for and your tech shirt size.

Can I switch races?
Yes, to help in the registration and results process we request that you pick a race. However, you can switch to either race by following the course you want and crossing the timing mats designated for the 5km or the 10km.

Will the race continue give out tech shirts?
Yes, they are a crowd favorite! The pumpkin and purple shirt (in men’s and women’s cut) will be a mock turtle neck for men and V-neck for women.

I ordered the wrong size t-shirt, or would prefer a different size, can I exchange it?
Exchanges will not be available until after the race, and only if any shirts are remaining. Go to the pre- registration area to see if they have shirts in your size. Note: The Turkey Trot web site registration page has a chart to help you determine the correct size. Note 2: For an extra $2, 2XL shirts will now be available.

Am I guaranteed a t-shirt?
If you’ve signed up before November 1, you will be guaranteed a shirt.

How far is the 5km/10km start from Cobo Hall?
About five blocks from the Cobo Center lobby. Walk east on Jefferson to Woodward and its one block north from there.