Catonsville Turkey Trot 2026: Thanksgiving 5K Near Arbutus
30 October 2026
The Catonsville Turkey Trot is back for its 22nd year on Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 26, 2026, at Catonsville High School, just up the road from Arbutus. There is a 1 mile family fun run at 8:10 a.m. and a 5K at 8:30 a.m., and every dollar raised goes to the Catonsville High School cross country program and the causes it supports.
When and where is the Catonsville Turkey Trot?
The 22nd Annual CHS XC Turkey Trot starts on the campus of Catonsville High School at 421 Bloomsbury Avenue in Catonsville. From most of Arbutus it is a short drive up Rolling Road.
Both races are chip timed and run cross country style on grass and campus paths. The 5K is two loops of the same course, with a different first 400 meters, so be sure to finish both loops.
| Race | Start time | Course | Price through Oct 30 | Price after Oct 30 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Mile Family Fun Run | 8:10 a.m. | One loop, cross country style | $27.50 (includes fee) | $32.80 |
| 5K | 8:30 a.m. | Two loops, cross country style | $32.80 (includes fee) | $43.40 |
Prices are from the race's RunSignup page. They go up after 11:59 p.m. on Friday, October 30, so if you are on the fence, today is the day to sign up.
Why is this race such a Catonsville tradition?
What I love about this one is where the money goes. The organizers say 100% of the proceeds go to the CHS cross country team for uniforms, training tools and travel, and to the community causes the team supports. Over the years that has included local scholarships and relief funds.
It also feels like a neighborhood reunion. You see families in matching turkey hats, college kids home for the holiday and grandparents cheering by the tennis courts. Kids 13 and under in the fun run get a participation ribbon, and there are random prize drawings for everyone.
What is the Battle of the Schools?
Catonsville High School feeder schools can compete in the Battle of the Schools. When you register, pick your school in the drop down menu under the Battle of the Schools heading.
The school with the most registered participants wins $150 for its PTA and a wellness event for its teachers and staff. You do not have to be a current student, so parents, alumni and friends can all sign up for their favorite school. Details are on the Battle of the Schools page.
What should I know before race morning?
- Packet pickup: Wednesday, November 25, 4 to 8 p.m., or race morning 7 to 7:45 a.m., in the Catonsville High School cafeteria. The organizers highly recommend Wednesday.
- Race day sign up: closes promptly at 7:45 a.m.
- Parking: by the cafeteria, at the front of the building and in the lot off Valley Road.
- Restrooms: inside the cafeteria.
- No strollers or dogs: the course can't handle them in either race.
- Bibs: pin yours on your outermost layer, and don't swap bibs with anyone.
After the race, you will have plenty of time to get home and get the turkey in the oven. If you need to know what is open and closed that day, see my post on Baltimore County holiday closings for November.
What does this mean if you are moving to Arbutus?
Traditions like this are a big part of why people fall for this corner of Baltimore County. Arbutus, Catonsville and Halethorpe really do feel like one community, and holiday mornings like this one are when you meet your neighbors. If you are new in town, my Moving to Arbutus guide is a great place to start, and the Catonsville Sunday Farmers Market is open through November 22 if you want to pick up some local goodies for your Thanksgiving table.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2026 Catonsville Turkey Trot?
The 22nd Annual CHS XC Turkey Trot is Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 26, 2026. The 1 mile fun run starts at 8:10 a.m. and the 5K starts at 8:30 a.m.
Where does the Catonsville Turkey Trot start?
Both races start and finish at Catonsville High School, 421 Bloomsbury Avenue in Catonsville. The finish is on the open field by the tennis courts.
How much does it cost to run the Catonsville Turkey Trot?
Through 11:59 p.m. on October 30, the fun run is $27.50 and the 5K is $32.80, including fees. After that, the fun run is $32.80 and the 5K is $43.40.
Can I bring my dog or a stroller to the Turkey Trot?
No, strollers and pets are not allowed in either race. The cross country course cannot accommodate them.
Where does the Turkey Trot money go?
The organizers say 100% of the proceeds go to the Catonsville High School cross country program. That includes uniforms, training tools, travel and the community causes the team supports.
Disclaimer: This post is based on information from the Catonsville Turkey Trot website and the race's RunSignup page as of 30 October 2026. Prices and details can change, so please check the race website before you go.
Ready to Find Your Place Near Arbutus?
Whether you are lacing up for the Turkey Trot or just dreaming about your first home in this neighborhood, I would love to help you find the right spot. I work with lots of first-time buyers and I am happy to answer any question, big or small. Call or text me at 443-421-6855.
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