PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. — Lace up your sneakers and hit the pavement for a local tradition before carving the turkey. The Community Chest of Port Washington and the Town of North Hempstead have officially announced the return of the 51st Annual 5-Mile Thanksgiving Day Run, scheduled for Thursday, November 26, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.
Following a record-breaking year that drew nearly 3,700 participants, organizers are gearing up to welcome an estimated 4,000 runners, joggers, and walkers this November.
"As we celebrate our 51st year of this incredible community tradition, we are thrilled to welcome runners and walkers back for an even bigger and better event," said Skip Stern, President of the Community Chest of Port Washington. "With the generous support of our title sponsor, The Dejana Foundation, and our community, every stride taken helps us provide vital funding to local non-profit organizations that support our neighbors in need right here in Port Washington."
Proceeds from the race directly benefit the Community Chest, a local non-profit grant-making organization that supports health, youth, and senior programs serving approximately 7,000 Port Washington residents.
Fast Facts for Participants & Supporters:
- When & Where: Thursday, November 26, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. Registration and course information are available at www.portchest.org
- Registration & Pricing: Early bird registration is $45 for adults and $30 for kids (ages 9–21) through October 31st (plus processing fees). Please note: Starting November 1st, registration fees will increase by $10 for adults and $5 for children. All registrants receive a commemorative, long-sleeve Race shirt.
- Race Packet Pickup: Registered runners can pick up race packets (Race Bib & shirt) on Tuesday, November 24th or Wednesday, November 25th at the Port Washington Adult Activities Center (80 Manorhaven Boulevard).
- Give Back to Local Pantries: In the spirit of Thanksgiving, the Community Chest is urging participants and community members to bring unexpired canned or dried food items and gift cards to Race Packet Pick Up to support local food pantries, including Our Lady of Fatima, St. Peter of Alcantara, and Littig House.
- Sponsorships & Volunteering: Local businesses and families interested in becoming race sponsors, or community members looking to volunteer, can contact the Community Chest office at (516) 767-2121.
The Community Chest is proud to welcome The Dejana Foundation as this year’s Title Sponsor, alongside Schneps Media as our Media Sponsor and SMUSHT as our Pie Raffle Sponsor.
The race is officially sanctioned and certified by USA Track and Field. It is co-presented by the Town of North Hempstead with vital logistical assistance from the Port Washington Police and Fire Medics, the Sands Point Police, the Nassau County Police, and the Villages of Manorhaven, Sands Point, Baxter Estates, and Port Washington North.
For more information, to register, or to become a sponsor, visit www.portchest.org or call the Community Chest at (516) 767-2121.