PORTAGE, IN — September 2026 — The Portage Township YMCA will host its 26th Annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 26, 2026, bringing runners, walkers, families and community members together for a holiday tradition that supports local families in need.
The Turkey Trot will begin at 8:00 a.m. with a FREE 1K Kids non-competitive fun run, followed by the professionally timed 5K at 8:30 a.m. The 5K is open to runners and walkers, with walkers and strollers beginning immediately following the 5K runners. The event will take place at the Portage Township YMCA, 3100 Willowcreek Road in Portage.
More than a race, the Turkey Trot is an opportunity for the community to start Thanksgiving by giving back. All proceeds from 5K entry fees benefit the YMCA’s Annual Campaign, which provides financial assistance to individuals and families in the community so they can access YMCA programs and services.
“Thanksgiving is a time to come together and recognize the people and organizations that make our community stronger,” said Shannon Burhans, CEO & President of the Portage Township YMCA. “The Turkey Trot gives families a fun way to start their holiday while also helping make sure our neighbors have access to the programs and resources they need. Every registration helps us continue to say yes when someone in our community needs support.”
The 5K includes a long-sleeve event shirt and custom finisher medal. Shirts are guaranteed for participants who register by November 1, 2026, with additional shirts available for purchase through November 1, while supplies last.
Awards will be presented to the top overall male and female finishers and the top three male and female finishers in each age group: 4–7, 8–10, 11–14, 15–19, 20–24, 25–29, 30–34, 35–39, 40–44, 45–49, 50–54, 55–59, and 60 and up.
Free child watch will also be available during the race, making it easier for parents and caregivers to participate.
Race-day packet pickup and day-of registration begin at 7:00 a.m. The 1K Kids Run will begin at 8:00 a.m., with participants lining up at 7:50 a.m. The 5K will begin at 8:30 a.m., with runners lining up at 8:20 a.m. Awards are scheduled for approximately 9:15 a.m.
Participants looking to prepare for the race can also register for the YMCA’s Couch to Course training group. The eight-week program meets Saturdays from 8:00–9:00 a.m. at the YMCA from October 1 through November 21, 2026.
Register for the Turkey Trot
Registration, complete race information and details about the Couch to Course training group are available at:
ymcaofportage.org/turkey-trot/
26th Annual Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 26, 2026
Portage Township YMCA | 3100 Willowcreek Road, Portage, IN
8:00 a.m. — FREE Kids 1K
8:30 a.m. — Professionally Timed 5K
About the Portage Township YMCA
The Portage Township YMCA is a nonprofit organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
Serving individuals and families throughout Portage Township, Union Township and eastern Lake County, the Portage Y provides opportunities for people of all ages and abilities through youth programs, childcare, fitness and wellness programs, sports, food programs, community initiatives and financial assistance. The Y believes everyone should have the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive, regardless of their ability to pay.
The Portage Township YMCA is located at 3100 Willowcreek Road in Portage, Indiana. For more information, visit ymcaofportage.org or call 219-762-9622.
