The 22nd Annual Cape Fear Habitat Turkey Trot takes place Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 26, 2026, at Live Oak Bank Pavilion in downtown Wilmington. Formerly the Wrightsville Beach Turkey Trot, the race has moved downtown for 2026 due to construction at the beach. The untimed 1 Mile run/walk starts at 8:00 AM and the timed 5K starts at 8:30 AM, both along the Cape Fear River. Registration is $40 for either distance, with prices increasing after September 8, and runners can also register at packet pickup or on race morning.
Costumes are encouraged. Racer costume judging runs 7:30 to 8:30 AM at the Costume Contest Tent, with a separate pet costume contest, and winners announced at 9:15 AM. Pets cannot race but are welcome in the park at the start and finish. Street parking is free downtown on Thanksgiving.
All proceeds benefit Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity, building homes in New Hanover, Pender, and Duplin Counties. Last year's race raised enough to build a home.
Wilmington's major outdoor amphitheater on the riverfront downtown with 7,500-person capacity. Where bigger national touring acts play when they come through - concerts, festivals, and …