Four races hit the streets of Cornelius, Davidson and Huntersville on Thanksgiving morning, Nov. 26, giving Lake Norman runners and walkers a reason to lace up before the big meal.
The races anchor a week of holiday dining, volunteering and seasonal events across all three towns, according to Visit Lake Norman.
Turkey Trots on Nov. 26
The 20th Annual IDNutrition Lake Norman Half Marathon Turkey Trot 10K and 5K starts at Life Fellowship Church, 20010 Chartown Drive in Cornelius. The half marathon begins at 7:30 a.m., the 10K at 7:35 a.m. and the 5K at 7:40 a.m., according to Huntersville Today. Walkers and strollers are welcome. Every runner brings one non-perishable food item for the Human Health Project. Race-day packet pickup opens at 6:30 a.m.
The 15th Annual Angels and Sparrows Thanksgiving Family 5K takes off at 8 a.m. outside Fleet Feet Sports, 16620 Cranlyn Road in Birkdale Village, Huntersville. Pre-race music, donuts, coffee and hot chocolate begin at 7 a.m. The untimed race costs $25 through Eventbrite. Strollers and dogs are welcome. Angels and Sparrows provides food security and educational support to local families.
The Davidson Turkey Trot starts at 8 a.m. at Davidson Village Green, 119 South Main St. The family-friendly 5K run/walk winds through downtown Davidson, and proceeds support local and regional nonprofits.
The Northstone Turkey Trot begins at 7 a.m. at 15801 Northstone Drive in Huntersville. Runners can choose a timed 5K ($20), an untimed 5K (free) or a Kids Fun Run for ages 7 and under. Proceeds go to A Giving Spirit Foundation, which provides financial assistance to Charlotte-area mothers facing a medical crisis.
Where to eat
Several restaurants plan Thanksgiving Day service. North Harbor Club in Davidson serves a three-course prix fixe menu from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with lake views. Reservations are recommended.
Red Rocks Cafe in Birkdale Village, Huntersville, offers an à la carte Thanksgiving menu from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Al's Bar & Grille in Cornelius stays open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Thanksgiving.
The Guesthouse in Huntersville plans a Thanksgiving menu at $89 per person, with limited hours and seating. The restaurant is also open the Tuesday and Wednesday before the holiday.
For takeout, Midwood Smokehouse in Huntersville offers whole smoked turkey, ham and sides for pickup before Thanksgiving. Mac's Speed Shop in Cornelius offers smoked turkey and sides to go on Wednesday, Nov. 25.
Give back
The Kiwanis Club of Lake Norman hosts its 30th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner Packing Day at 8 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 23, at 9815 Rose Commons Drive in Huntersville, behind Publix. Volunteers help pack more than 450 dinners for families in need, according to Visit Lake Norman. Each dinner feeds four or five people.
Coming up
Davidson Farmers Market: The season's last Saturday market is Nov. 21, 9 a.m. to noon, at 120 South Main St. in Davidson. Nearly 50 vendors sell produce, meats, breads and baked goods.
Birkdale on Ice: The outdoor rink at Birkdale Village opens Nov. 21 and runs through Jan. 10, 2027. Tickets cost $18 for a 75-minute session. Season passes are $120. Advance reservations are recommended.
Light Up Cornelius: The annual Christmas tree lighting runs 4 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 28, in downtown Cornelius, with children's activities, food, cookie decorating and a visit from Santa.
