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2026 Thanksgiving Distance Classic

Jacksonville's Thanksgiving Distance Classic: a flat, fast half-marathon tradition with ~800 runners.

Expected Race Date

~Nov 2026

Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.

Location

Jacksonville, FL

Standout72

Quick facts

Date
around November 2026 (expected)
Location
Jacksonville, Florida
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi)
Course
Loop Course
Terrain
Road
USATF certified
Not listed

Highlights

Good For

PR FriendlyBeginner Friendly

Atmosphere

Local CommunityWell Organized

Course

Fast Flat

The Experience

On Thanksgiving morning, the Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic takes over the streets of Jacksonville, Florida. The flat, road-based course winds through the city, offering runners a fast and forgiving route ideal for personal bests. With a median field of nearly 800 finishers and a history spanning 28 editions, this race has become a cherished holiday tradition for locals and travelers alike.

About 37% of runners return year after year, reflecting the strong community loyalty the event inspires. The race starts and finishes near 9850 San Jose Boulevard, with ample post-race festivities that capture the spirit of Thanksgiving. Mild weather in the low 70s to 50s adds to the appeal, making this a standout destination for a weekend getaway or a family-friendly racing experience.

Race-provided description

Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic 9850 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL, USA - UPDATE: The race has reached its limit. Thank… - November 27, 2025

Logistics

Race Day

around November 2026 (expected)

Start Time

TBA

Start Location

Jacksonville, FL

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

road

Scenery

Urban

Difficulty

Ultra-Flat

Quality Score

Standout72
Methodology
Heritage20/20

28 years running

Size14/15

~788 finishers a year

Momentum5/5

growing or steady

Loyalty20/20

37% returning runners

Course & details3/15

4 timing sources

National draw0/10

runners from 1 state

Front-pack speed5/5

winner 1:08:01

Weather5/10

typical high 69°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

52°

Afternoon (High)

69°

Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish

0.0"

Precipitation

10 mph

Wind

76%

Humidity

Frequently asked

When is the 2026 Thanksgiving Distance Classic?

The 2026 Thanksgiving Distance Classic hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around November 2026 (expected).

Where does the 2026 Thanksgiving Distance Classic take place?

It takes place in Jacksonville, Florida.

What distances does the 2026 Thanksgiving Distance Classic offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles).

Is the 2026 Thanksgiving Distance Classic course flat and good for a PR?

The 2026 Thanksgiving Distance Classic is a ultra-flat, loop course course.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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