GraceWorks Ministries expects more than 4,700 runners and walkers at its 27th annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, Nov. 26, at Meridian Cool Springs in Franklin.

The event, one of Williamson County's longest-running holiday traditions, offers three races: a 10K run, a 5K walk/run and a Kids' Turkey Chase for children age 9 and under. All proceeds support GraceWorks' food, shelter and support programs for families in need, according to the nonprofit's event page.

Alicia Bell, CEO of GraceWorks Ministries, said in a FranklinIs report that the funds raised at the event provide care to neighbors facing difficult circumstances.

Race day schedule

The morning starts early at 5000 Meridian Blvd. Registration is available at turkeytrotfranklin.com.

  • 6:15 a.m. Race-day registration opens
  • 7 a.m. 10K starts
  • 8 a.m. 5K starts
  • 9 a.m. Kids' Turkey Chase starts
  • 9:30 a.m. Course cleared by the City of Franklin

Race corrals will sort runners by pace, a feature organizers added in response to requests from faster runners, according to the event registration site. Strollers are welcome on the course, but the city prohibits bikes, rollerblades, skateboards, scooters and dogs.

Registration and cost

Registration fees are $50 for the 10K, $45 for the 5K and $15 for the Kids' Turkey Chase. Teams of four or more adults receive a $5 discount per registration. Organizers note that fees have not changed from last year, though online prices now include processing fees under a Tennessee law requiring up-front pricing.

All registration fees are nonrefundable. Participants must register online before picking up a bib and T-shirt on race day.

Packet pickup

VIP packet pickup costs $10 and includes a 20% discount at Fleet Feet stores in Brentwood and Cool Springs. VIP pickup runs Monday, Nov. 23, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. at both Fleet Feet locations.

General packet pickup is free on Wednesday, Nov. 25, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on race morning from 6:30 to 7:55 a.m. at 5000 Meridian Blvd.

Fundraising and sponsors

Participants can raise additional money through peer-to-peer fundraising. Those who raise or donate at least $150 earn a limited-edition "Love thy Neighbor" T-shirt, according to the registration site.

Jackson Financial Inc. is the presenting sponsor. Niya Moon, corporate philanthropy manager at Jackson Financial, said in the FranklinIs report that the sponsorship supports families in Williamson County.

Upcoming community dates

  • Nov. 23: VIP packet pickup at Fleet Feet Cool Springs and Fleet Feet Brentwood, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 25: General packet pickup at 5000 Meridian Blvd., 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Nov. 26: 27th annual GraceWorks Turkey Trot, Meridian Cool Springs, starting at 7 a.m.