Daytona Turkey Run 2026: Dates, Tickets, Schedule, Cars, and Events

Every Thanksgiving weekend, thousands of car lovers pack their bags and head to one of Florida’s most iconic events. The Daytona Turkey Run 2026 promises to be bigger and better than ever. Set against the legendary backdrop of Daytona International Speedway, this four-day celebration of classic cars, community, and culture is a must-attend for families, collectors, and motorsport fans alike.

Whether you are a seasoned visitor or a first-timer, this complete guide covers everything you need to know — from dates and tickets to cars, events, and insider tips for making the most of your trip.

What Is the Daytona Turkey Run?

The Daytona Turkey Run is the largest combined car show, swap meet, and car corral in the United States. Started in 1974 by Stu Sarjeant, it began with just 45 classic street rods on display. Today, it has grown into a massive annual tradition that draws over 100,000 visitors across four action-packed days.

The event takes place in the infield of Daytona International Speedway — widely known as the “World Center of Racing.” Over the decades, it has donated more than $19 million in profits to charitable organizations and local community programs. Therefore, attending the event is not just fun; it also supports meaningful causes.

Daytona Turkey Run 2026: Dates and Location

The 53rd Annual Daytona Turkey Run takes place from November 25 to November 29, 2026. The event kicks off on Thanksgiving Day and runs through Sunday of the same weekend.

The speedway’s infield covers approximately 480 acres of outdoor space. Everything happens outside, which makes it a refreshing, open-air experience for all attendees.

Ticket Prices and Admission

Tickets are affordable and straightforward. General admission is available at the gate during show days or online approximately two months before the event opens. Children 11 and under always get in free, which makes this an ideal family outing.

Parking is free throughout the event, which is a welcome perk for large groups and families traveling with gear. Additionally, no scoring or awards are handed out at the show, which keeps the atmosphere relaxed and welcoming for everyone.

Daily Schedule and Show Hours

Show hours remain consistent across most of the event, with a slightly shorter finish on Sunday.

It is a good idea to arrive early each day. Cars begin entering the infield in the early morning hours. Watching them roll into position is a spectacular sight in itself.

Cars on Display: What to Expect

The heart of the event is its jaw-dropping collection of vehicles. Over 7,000 vintage, classic, custom, and muscle cars are on display for show and sale. Additionally, the Car Corral section features over 1,200 special collector cars available for private purchase or trade.

The variety is remarkable. You might walk past a perfectly restored 1957 Cadillac 62 Series, then stop in front of a 1948 Packard Woody Wagon, and moments later admire a 1962 Triumph TR3A. The show includes:

• Classic American muscle cars: Mustangs, Camaros, Chargers, and Challengers
• Iconic Corvettes and rare Vipers and Prowlers
• Vintage trucks and custom street rods
• Foreign and domestic exotic cars of all eras
• Pre-1980 collector cars across every category

There are no judges, no trophies, and no pressure. Owners simply bring their vehicles, share their stories, and let the cars do the talking. However, the quality on display is consistently show-worthy. Many participants travel from across the United States and even internationally to be part of this event.

The Swap Meet: A Treasure Hunt for Car Lovers

The swap meet is one of the most beloved sections of the event. With over 2,500 vendor spaces, it is a true treasure hunt for anyone who loves classic cars, auto parts, and hard-to-find accessories.

Vendors come from all over the country. They sell everything from rare engine components and vintage chrome accessories to classic car memorabilia, tools, signage, and automotive art. Whether you are restoring a muscle car or just looking for an unusual gift, the swap meet has something for you.

Additionally, sellers and buyers often strike deals on the spot. The informal atmosphere makes negotiation easy and fun. Therefore, it is worth bringing cash for quick transactions throughout the grounds.

Artisan Alley: More Than Just Cars

Not everyone at the Turkey Run is a gearhead, and that is perfectly fine. Artisan Alley offers a charming crafts bazaar filled with handmade goods, wearable art, home décor, jewelry, and unique fashion items. It adds a completely different flavor to the event.

Local and regional artisans set up their booths and create a lively, colorful marketplace. This section is especially popular with family members who want to browse while others explore the car corral. It is a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts ahead of the holiday season.

Food, Entertainment, and Live Music

Hungry attendees will find no shortage of options. A full midway of food vendors lines the infield, serving everything from classic American fair food to regional Florida flavors. Grilled meats, funnel cakes, fresh lemonade, and hearty plates are easy to find throughout the grounds.

Entertainment is woven throughout the event each day. Live music adds energy to the atmosphere and gives visitors a chance to relax between exploring the different sections. The combination of sights, sounds, and smells makes the entire experience feel like a true celebration.

In recent years, the event has also featured a craft beer festival — known as Hops and Hoods — typically held on Saturday. This popular addition brings together local breweries and car enthusiasts in a festive, adult-friendly setting. Visitors should check the official schedule at turkeyrun.com closer to the event for confirmed details.

Car Corral: Buy, Sell, and Trade

The Car Corral is a separate section where private owners list their collector vehicles for direct sale or trade. Over 1,200 cars are typically available in this area. Buyers can inspect vehicles up close, speak directly with owners, and negotiate deals in person.

This section is popular with serious collectors who are looking to add to their garages or sell vehicles from their existing collections. However, casual visitors are also welcome to browse. Seeing such a wide range of vehicles in one place is an experience in itself.

A Brief History: 53 Years of Turkey Run Tradition

The Daytona Turkey Run began in 1974. In its very first year, just 45 classic street rods gathered for a modest show. The event grew steadily throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

By 1989, it had found its permanent home in the infield of Daytona International Speedway. Today, the show has grown into a major national event. It happens twice a year — once during Thanksgiving weekend and again on the fourth weekend of March (the Spring Turkey Run). The November edition is the larger and more iconic of the two.

Over its history, the event has contributed more than $19 million to charitable organizations. The Daytona Beach Street Rods, who organize the event, have long been committed to giving back to the community through raffle cars and charitable donations.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Planning ahead makes a big difference at an event this size. Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your visit:

• Arrive early: Gates open at 8 AM, and the best parking and viewing spots fill up fast.
• Wear comfortable shoes: The infield is vast, and you will walk a great deal throughout the day.
• Bring cash: Many swap meet vendors prefer cash, and it speeds up purchases significantly.
• Dress for the weather: Late November in Daytona Beach can be warm during the day but cool in the evening. Layers work best.
• Stay nearby: Daytona Beach has a wide range of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. However, they book up quickly during Thanksgiving weekend, so reserve early.
• Check the official website: Closer to the event, the organizers update schedules, featured cars, and special guest announcements at turkeyrun.com.
• Take breaks: The event is large and exciting, so pacing yourself allows you to enjoy every section without feeling rushed.

Getting to Daytona International Speedway

Daytona International Speedway is easy to reach from several major Florida cities. It sits just off Interstate 95 and International Speedway Boulevard, making it accessible from most directions.

Daytona Beach also has its own regional airport, and Orlando International Airport is approximately one hour away for those flying in. Free parking is available on-site throughout the event, so driving is often the most convenient option.

Why the Daytona Turkey Run Is Worth Attending

Events of this scale are rare. The Turkey Run combines automotive history, art, community, entertainment, and family fun in one place. It is one of the few car-related events that genuinely has something for every type of visitor.

However, beyond the cars and swap meet tables, there is something more at work here. The Turkey Run feels like a shared celebration. People come together around a love of classic vehicles, American craftsmanship, and the holiday spirit of Thanksgiving. Additionally, the proceeds benefit local charities, which means your ticket purchase contributes to the community.

For car enthusiasts, it is a dream weekend. For families, it is a memorable holiday tradition. And for first-time visitors, it is the kind of event that quickly becomes an annual must-do.

Conclusion

The Daytona Turkey Run 2026 runs from November 25 to November 29 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. Now in its 53rd year, it remains the largest combined car show, swap meet, and car corral in the United States. The event features over 7,000 vehicles, 2,500 swap meet spaces, Artisan Alley, live entertainment, food vendors, and the popular Car Corral for buying and selling collector vehicles.

Admission is affordable, parking is free, and children under 12 get in at no cost. The show runs daily from 8 AM, with Sunday closing earlier at 2 PM. Whether you are a lifelong car enthusiast or simply looking for a fun Thanksgiving weekend activity, this event offers an experience unlike anything else in the country.

Plan ahead, arrive early, and come ready to explore one of Florida’s most beloved annual traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the Daytona Turkey Run 2026?

The 2026 event runs from November 25 to November 29, 2026, beginning on Thanksgiving Day and continuing through Sunday at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida.

How much does it cost to attend the Daytona Turkey Run 2026?

Admission is $20 per day from Thursday through Saturday and $15 on Sunday. Children aged 11 and under are admitted free of charge. Parking is also free for all attendees.

Where is the Daytona Turkey Run held?

The event takes place in the infield of Daytona International Speedway, located at 1801 West International Speedway Boulevard, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114.

Can I bring my classic car to the Daytona Turkey Run?

Yes. Car owners can register their vehicles to participate in the show or car corral. Information on how to enter a car is available at www.turkeyrun.com or by calling 386-255-7355.

Is the Daytona Turkey Run family-friendly?

Absolutely. The event is designed for all ages. Children under 12 enter free, and there are plenty of activities beyond the car show — including Artisan Alley, food vendors, and live entertainment — that appeal to every member of the family.

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