Lake Norman Races by Epic Sports Marketing
Half marathons, 10Ks and 5Ks around Lake Norman and Charlotte, organized by the same local team since 2000.
2026–27 Race Calendar
Four races, one season. Pick a date and lock in your spot.
Lake Norman Turkey Trot · Thu, Nov 26, 2026
Half marathon 7:30 AM, 10K 7:35 AM, 5K 7:40 AM at Life Fellowship Church, Cornelius.
Turkey Trot
Thanksgiving morning in Cornelius. Our biggest race of the year.
Elf Classic
Virtual. Run your miles anywhere in December.
Forest Run
Shaded paved roads in Lake Norman State Park.
Run our halves across the season and chase series awards. No separate fee.
What runners say
Real words from real finishers.
“Best one in the 18-year history of the Lake Norman Turkey Trot.”Erik J. · Turkey Trot
“Well marked, had no issues.”Fernanda H. · Lake Norman runner
“Great race. Great vibes.”Donald C. · Turkey Trot
Not running? Work with us.
Local businesses and event organizers use the same team that runs our races.
Sponsor or advertise
Put your business in front of about 2,500 Lake Norman runners and their families each season.
- Race-day signage and booth space
- Logo on shirts, emails and the website
- Banner ads on this site
Hosting your own race?
Turnkey event management, race timing, or just the gear. Charlotte and Lake Norman.
- Race timing and results
- Finish line arch, race clock and PA rentals
- Free 15-minute Zoom to plan your event
Questions
Quick answers about Lake Norman races.
What races are near Lake Norman this season?
The Turkey Trot (Nov 26, 2026, Cornelius), the virtual Elf Classic (Dec 1–31, 2026), Wildman (Mar 6, 2027, Mooresville) and Forest Run (Jun 5, 2027, Lake Norman State Park).
Is there a Thanksgiving half marathon near Charlotte?
Yes. The Lake Norman Turkey Trot in Cornelius has a half marathon, 10K and 5K on Thanksgiving morning, about 20 minutes north of Charlotte.
Are your races good for first-timers?
Yes. Every race has a 5K, and first-time half marathoners get a pep talk at the start line.
Who organizes these races?
Epic Sports Marketing, a Mooresville race company that has organized and timed races in the Lake Norman and Charlotte area since 2000.