Run a Thanksgiving 5K in Alley Pond Park Before the Feast
A three-lap 5K on Thanksgiving morning in Alley Pond Park, with a free kids dash at 9:30 and bib pickup from 9.
🦃 Thursday's Race
🏃 The 10 AM Start
Park at the Alley Pond Picnic Area in Oakland Gardens (11364), where start and finish meet. The 5K starts at 10:00 AM on Thanksgiving morning, rain or shine, running three timed loops through the woods. The free Kiddie Dash starts at 9:30. In-person bib pickup opens at 9:00 AM, and restrooms are a short walk away. Photo: 2025 edition.
🚗 Parking and Buses
Parking is at the Alley Pond Picnic Area lot. By transit, Q27 and Q88 buses stop at Springfield Blvd & 76th Ave (5-minute walk); or take Q46/Q48 from the E/F train to Union Tpke & Springfield Blvd (12-minute walk). MTA buses run Sunday schedules on Thanksgiving Day. The three Queens parks at the end of this guide are 2 to 6 miles away and open 6 AM to 9 PM daily.
💰 What It Costs
Entry is $33.80 before November 8, $36.91 from November 8, and $38.98 on race day ($3.80 fee included). Register by Nov 7 to save on race entry. Fees are non-refundable and not transferable between years. Skipping the shirt takes $5 off, while XX-Large adds $3. Mailing a bib costs $10.35 (must register 10 days ahead). Informal bag check is available without organizer liability. Optional donations benefit the Never Stop Running Foundation (501(c)(3)). Sign up directly on the official elitefeats page.
