FAQs
Have questions about the Sewickley Turkey Trot 5K? You’re in the right place. This FAQ covers everything you need to know before race day—registration details, packet pickup, start times, parking, course logistics, safety guidelines, timing, awards, and how your participation supports the YMCA’s Faith In Action program. Use this guide to prepare for a fun, safe, and memorable Thanksgiving morning at the Sewickley Turkey Trot.
Registration
Q: What does my registration fee include?
Your registration includes our 2025 Turkey Trot swag, race bib, a fully supported 5K course, post-race snacks, and access to the awards ceremony.
Q: Can I register on Thanksgiving morning?
Yes. Although we encourage participants to register in advance, race-day registration is available. Please arrive with extra time to complete your registration and reach the start line before 8:30 a.m.
Q: Is the race for all ages and abilities?
Yes. The Sewickley Turkey Trot is designed for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Walkers should begin toward the back of the start area and stay to the side of the route to give runners a clear path.
Q: Are strollers allowed in the race?
Yes! Strollers are welcome. For everyone’s safety, we recommend lining up near the back of the start area—along with walkers—to keep the course clear for runners.
Q: Can I bring my dog to the race?
We love dogs, but for the safety of all participants and due to the size of the event, we ask that pets stay at home.
Q: Will the race be canceled due to weather?
No. The Sewickley Turkey Trot is a rain, snow, or shine event.
Packet Pickup
Q: When and where can I pick up my race packet?
Packet pickup will take place on Wednesday, November 26, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Sewickley Valley YMCA Walter J. Brannon Community Activity Center, located in the upper parking lot on the YMCA campus on Blackburn Road. (Look for the turkey!) Race-day pickup is also available from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning.
Q: Can I pick up packets for friends or family members?
Yes. You may pick up packets for friends and family.
Q: Can I pick up my packet on race morning?
Yes. Race-day packet pickup is available on Thanksgiving morning from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. However, we strongly recommend picking up on Wednesday to avoid long lines and race-morning delays.
Q: Can I pick up my packet outside the designated times?
No. Due to record-high registration, participants cannot pick up packets outside the posted pickup windows.
Q: If I miss packet pickup, can I pick it up on race day?
Yes. Packet pickup is open on Thanksgiving morning from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. We strongly recommend picking up your packet on Wednesday to avoid race-day lines.
Race Day Details
Q: What is the schedule for race day?
- 07:00 a.m. — Race-day registration & packet pickup opens
- 08:30 a.m. — Timed 5K begins
- 09:20 a.m. — Awards ceremony
Please arrive one hour before the Turkey Trot to secure parking and reach the start line on time.
Q: Where is the start line?
The race begins at War Memorial Park, 811 Blackburn Road, Sewickley, PA and the race course runs through the streets of Sewickley.
Q: What do I do after the race?
Enjoy water and snacks, check your results on your phone, pick up your award if applicable, and celebrate the start of your Thanksgiving Day with us!
Q: Will there be a bag drop?
No. For security reasons, we do not offer a bag drop. Please leave valuables at home.
Course Logistics
Q: Where do I go once I park?
Head to War Memorial Park to stretch, enjoy the music, and visit our sponsor tables while you wait for your event to begin.
Q: Will there be support along the course?
Yes. A water stop is located near the halfway point at the Sewickley Borough Building. Mile markers and race-day volunteers will also help keep you on the correct route.
Q: How do I exit the finish area after I complete the race?
After finishing, please exit by walking across the field and through the YMCA upper parking lot directly below War Memorial Park. For safety reasons, participants cannot exit onto Blackburn Road.
Q: How is traffic managed during the race?
Sewickley Borough Police and our volunteers will be stationed throughout the course to stop traffic and ensure participant safety. While limited public traffic may be present, please follow all volunteer directions.
Parking
Q: Where can I park on race morning?
Free parking is available in the Heritage Valley Parking Garage, accessible from the Blackburn Road entrance across from the YMCA. Gates will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. for participant entry. Once the race begins, the main garage gates will close, and a volunteer will direct you to a parking spot to help maximize available space.
Q: Can I park in the Sewickley Valley YMCA lots?
No. Parking in the Sewickley Valley YMCA upper and lower lots is not available on race morning. Please use the Heritage Valley Parking Garage via the Blackburn Road entrance between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.
Q: How do I exit the parking garage after the race?
All vehicles must exit through the Locust Street exit. Participants will not be permitted to exit onto Blackburn Road. One lane of Blackburn Road is reserved for race participants, while the other must remain open for hospital access. Volunteers will assist with traffic flow as participants leave.
Q: What is the safest way to walk to and from the start/finish area?
For your safety, please walk through the YMCA upper parking lot, past the Turkey and Community Activity Center, to reach the starting line. After completing the race, all participants must exit by crossing the field and walking through the YMCA upper parking lot directly below War Memorial Park.
Timing, Awards, and Swag
Q: How will I be timed?
Your race bib includes a disposable timing chip. To be officially timed, wear the bib on the front of your clothing and make sure it is visible and not covered by layers.
Q: Who will receive awards?
The Sewickley Turkey Trot has awards and swag! Medals are awarded to:
- The top three male and female finishers in each age group
- The overall male and female winners
Age groups: 12 & under, 13–15, 16–19, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, and 70+.
Q: Can I exchange my t-shirt size?
No. Due to record-high registration, participants cannot exchange shirt sizes or pick up packets outside the posted pickup windows.
Mission & Impact
Q: Who does the Turkey Trot support?
Your participation supports Faith In Action, a free community outreach program of the Sewickley Valley YMCA. The program provides volunteer drivers who help older adults remain independent by offering transportation to medical appointments and treatments, plus referrals for essential community services.
Need more information?
If you need additional information about the Sewickley Turkey Trot 5K—registration, course details, or volunteering—please contact the Sewickley Valley YMCA at 412-741-9622. Our team is here to help you have an enjoyable Turkey Trot experience!
