Birdie Derby
November 27, 2025
Madison's Favorite Thanksgiving Tradition - this 5k/10k run/walk provides options for all ages and is the only event that keeps 100% of proceeds local.
Accessible, inclusive programs and events for lifelong health.
Join us Thanksgiving morning for the Birdie Derby — a fun-filled run/walk event for the whole family, from the 10K to the Kids Dash!
Birdie Derby is a fun-filled community event produced by Active Youth Wisconsin, whose dedicated volunteers work hard year-round to make your entire experience exceptional! There are options for everyone! Join us as a walker or runner in the 5K or 10K, start a Team and run with friends, or have your little ones participate in the Kids Dash! We’ve listed important information below to help you through the process of registering, arriving on race day, and many other details of our events.
Pre-Race Packet Pickup Schedule
Nov 25, 12pm – 7pm
Nov 26, 7am – 2pm
Perennial Yoga, 5500 E Cheryl Pkwy Suite 101, Fitchburg, WI 53711
Thanksgiving Day Race Schedule
8:00 am Kids Dash
8:30 am 10K Run Start
8:50 am 5K Run Start
9:00 am 5K Walk Start
Note: If running with a stroller in the 5k, you MUST line up in the Runner Stroller Wave, before the walkers. If walking with a stroller, you can be anywhere in the Walk staging area.
Wheelchair racers will start approximately 2 minutes ahead of the 10K start.
Please remember to bring your QR code or email confirmation (paper or electronic) for faster pick-up.
Fitchburg Business Park, 5500 E Cheryl Pkwy, Fitchburg, WI 53711
Did you know that some Wisconsin physical education budgets are less than $100? That's why all proceeds of Birdie Derby support the Grants 4 Schools program. Teachers, schools, and community centers receive grants to support health and wellness initiatives inside and outside the classroom. You can learn more about Active Youth Wisconsin programs here.
Join us for the annual Kids Dash presented by Casa de Corazon, a free 100-yard race just for kids!
Ages 2-6
Starts at 8am
Untimed
Separate FREE registration includes an official Birdie Derby bib and finisher medal
Kids ages 4-6 can register for both the Kids Dash AND the Birdie Derby 5K/10K for only $9!
Before the Race:
First you will need to pick up their race bib IN PERSON when you pick up your own. Pick up is on the Tuesday or Wednesday before the race (Nov. 25-26) at Birdie Derby headquarters (Perennial Yoga) or Thanksgiving morning at the registration tent.
It’s a good idea to show up early—the Kids Dash will start at 8am SHARP! You can find parking, then get some hot chocolate or coffee.
Race info:
Make sure your little runner has their race bib attached to the front of them and is visible—this is the way they will receive their medal. The bigger kids can head up front, and the smaller kids in back. You can find the race route on the Village Map.
Volunteers will be there to provide medals to all finishers with a bib!
If you’re staying for the big race, kids ages 4-6 are welcome to run the 5k for only $9 and get the goody bag and long-sleeve shirt—register them here.
Kids 3 and under can can join parents in a stroller for the 5K and do not need to be registered (line up in the stroller wave).
NOTE: All children under age 10 should be accompanied by a guardian during the race. Any lost kids should report to the Registration tent.
Packet pick-up for the Annual Birdie Derby is available Tuesday and Wednesday during the week of the race and on race day.
Pre-Race Packet Pick-up
November 25, 12:00-7:00PM
November 26, 7:00AM – 2:00PM
Location: Perennial Yoga, 5500 E Cheryl Pkwy Suite 101, Fitchburg, WI 53711
Packets Will Include
Race bib, event shirt, swag item, and goody bag. Participants are encouraged to pick up their packets during this special two-day window–it will save time on race morning.
Important Things to Know About Packet Pick-up
Have your registration QR code ready for fast check-in!
You may pick up a race packet/s for another participant(s). Remember, to bring your email confirmation for faster pick-up.
You may not exchange shirt sizes until after the race is over and only if inventory is available.
Team Captains or representatives must pick up the full team. There are no team changes allowed.
Race Day Packet Pick up
Location: Perrenial Yoga/on site registration tent
Date: November 27, 2025
Pick up: 7:15 am – 8:30 am
Results will be posted on berbeederby.com by 6 p.m. on race day. Awards will be available for pick up at Fleet Feet the Tuesday following Thanksgiving. Please reach out to birdiederby@activeyouthwisconsin.org to make other arrangements.
Individuals
• Top three male, female, and non-binary finishers overall
• Top male and female finisher per age group
Teams
• Top three teams (average time of first five finishers) (5k/10k)
• Largest corporate team
• Largest family/friend team
Additional categories
• Top male and female wheelchair finishers (5K/10K)
• Oldest overall male (5k/10k)
• Oldest overall female (5k/10k)
NOTE: To be eligible for team awards, at least five members must be registered under the same race category. Teams are eligible to win under both race categories (10K and 5K) only if at least five members are registered under both race categories. If your team does not wish to compete for awards you still must have five team members but you are free to have these members in any or all race categories.
Age Groups
14 or under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75+
Participant Perks
All pre-registered runners and walkers who pick up their numbers at packet pick up Nov. 26-27 will receive:
Birdie Derby soft-cotton, long-sleeved t-shirt (OR a cozy crewneck upgrade)
Winter hat
Free photos by Focal Flame Photography
Pre race coffee and hot chocolate
KWIK TRIP GLAZERS!
And more post race snacks and refreshments!
Goody Bag stuffed with items donated by our generous sponsors
Registration
The Birdie Derby offers easy online registration, and a full range of amenities for its participants:
Pre-race activities
Post-race: Food tent with complimentary snacks
Complimentary “swag” that includes a long sleeve t-shirt, goodies and a special gift (to be announced soon!)
Free downloadable photos from Focal Flame Photography
An accurately measured course
Ample, free parking and easy accessibility to the race course
2025 Birdie Derby
Individual Fees/Deadlines
Early Bird(ie) $35 per individual
General Registration $40 per individual
Late Registration $45 per individual
Day-Of Registration $50 per individual
* Discounts cannot be applied to children’s pricing
**Military service receives a discount upon registration
Team Deadlines
Team registration closes on 11/1/2025. This deadline is necessary to ensure proper registration within race categories and to allow sufficient time for team processing and T-shirt printing (we’d hate to rush and spell your name wrong on the back of the shirt). We won’t accept any team member category changes or team member additions after this date.
Payment Methods
Credit cards only for online registration; checks and cash also accepted at Birdie Derby headquarters during race week.
Don’t forget to sign up for Participant Tracking to instantly receive your results!
2020 Berbee Derby was a virtual run. No result times were recorded.
Run with a team or run alone – same price
The option to participate on a team is one of the most fun and unique parts of Birdie Derby! We have made the process to manage a team as simple as it can get.
Here’s how it works…
Each team must select a “Team Captain”. This team captain does just a bit of organizing to recruit members.
Team Management Features (accessed through your RunSignUp account):
Share Team Page — Once you register and create your team, you have a Team Page you can share. Upload a picture and share on Facebook, Twitter and email. Friends and family will be directed to the page where they can see who else is on the team (if you share that info), they can join and even share with others.
Receive instant email notifications when a new team member signs up.
View Team Roster (full member listing).
Communicate directly with members on team-specific details (i.e. where to pick up team packets, where to meet on race day etc.)
Who Can Form a Team?
Any group, organization, or business can form teams for the Birdie Derby and receive their team name printed on the back of their Birdie Derby T-Shirt. Team registration will close on November 1, 2025 at 11:59PM. Teams must have at least 5 participants.
Team members may run virtually, though we will not collect times for virtual runners, and their team will not qualify for an award. If you are planning to participate as a virtual team member, you are not guaranteed delivery of your shirt and special gift by Thanksgiving Day.
Note: There is a limit of 40 characters for team names. (And please keep it clean—this is a family event!)
TO BE CATEGORIZED AS A TEAM, YOU MUST HAVE 5 OR MORE MEMBERS
If your team is not complete by the November 1st deadline, each member will be registered as an individual. No refunds.
TOP 3 TEAMS ARE AWARDED IN THE 10K AND 5K RUN
Average of first five finishers on team. At least five members must be registered under the same race category (10k or 5k).
Register to volunteer here.
Our racers tell us over and over again that we have the best volunteers! We couldn’t agree more and are so fortunate to have a fantastic community of people who volunteer with the Birdie Derby.You can help us by becoming a volunteer. We have positions both before and on Thanksgiving Day.
Race Promoters (Pre-Race)
Do you like talking to people in the community? Do you enjoy prize wheels? Do you look good in a turkey costume? Berbee staff members are hoping to talk to new audiences this fall to introduce them to the race. Duties may include putting up posters in businesses, staffing a table at Farmer’s Markets and festivals, soliciting items, sharing on social media, recruiting teams – or bring your own promotional ideas. We’d love to hear them! Click here to contact us.
Team Processing (Pre-race)
We love our teams, many of which have been with us since the beginning. As a Team Processing volunteer, you will cross-check team t-shirts and bibs with team rosters to create individual team member packets, place packets in team boxes, and sort them alphabetically for pickup. A high level of attention to detail is required and it is a somewhat physical task. Since this activity works in groups, it would be an excellent opportunity for family or friends to volunteer together.Goodie Bag
Inventory Specialists (Pre-Race)
OK, so we made up a fancy title! There is a super dedicated group of volunteers that have been coming in and stuffing our goodie bags for years. They are fast at the assembly line process! You would be working to keep all the items stocked on the assembly tables and move large boxes of completed bags. If you are quick on your feet, able to lift and carry boxes, and have good attention to your surroundings, you’ll be perfect.
Packet Pick-up Agent (Pre-Race)
As a pre-race day packet pick-up volunteer, you will check in participants, assign race bibs, and hand out goodie bags and t-shirts. The ability to use an iPad (or similar technology) and effectively communicate is required. (Currently, this position is only open to Singlewire employees.)
Packet Pick-up Runner (Pre-Race)
As a pre-race day packet pickup runner, you will bring t-shirts to the Packet Pick Up Agents and keep the inventory of goodie bags stocked at the Registration table. This job requires walking and standing for the majority of the shift.
Packet Pick-up Greeter (Pre-Race)
At our headquarters, you will sit at the front desk, greet our racers and make sure they find their way to the Packet Pick-Up area.
Birdie Derby Store (Pre- and Race Day)
Everybody loves merch! Especially when it’s turkey-themed. Sell Derby-related products to all our fans using a credit card reader.
Race Day Parking Leads (Pre- and Day of Race)
Our Parking Captain is amazing! He is looking for one or two people to take on more responsibility. Maybe you’ve volunteered with the parking crew in the past and had a great time. Or you’re brand new and think an orange safety vest is a bold fashion statement. You’ll help strategize parking plans, place signage, and lead and train other volunteers. Click here to contact us if you’re interested.
Mailing Assistants (Pre- and Post-Race)
The Birdie Derby is so awesome that people want to participate even if they can’t be here in person. Help staff mail t-shirts and goodie bag items to our virtual racers and medals to our winners. Attention to detail is a must. Click here to contact us if you’re interested.
Food Tent (Race Day)
One of the best jobs – distribute our delectable treats to runners after the finish line. Help set up, stock and replenish, and clean up the food tent.
Photo Station (Race Day)
Make people feel like superstars – play paparazzi for the day. You will direct race finishers in and out of the photo booth areas, encouraging individuals, families, and groups to get their pictures taken. Energy, a loud voice, and an outgoing spirit are helpful.Parking and Traffic (Race Day)
You will direct traffic into the Berbee Derby lots and around the race grounds and make sure VIP parkers find their correct areas.
Start/Finish Line/Kids Dash (Race Day)
If you like being busy, this is your job. First, you’ll send our littlest gobblers, ages 2-6, off for the 100-yard Kid’s Dash and distribute medals to each one at the finish. Then you will prepare runners and walkers for the race start by dividing 10k and 5k runners/walkers into waves. Finally switch to the finish line to congratulate and guide them through the finish area. You will also be responsible for distributing post-race water at the finish area. It’s fast-paced, but so much fun.
Registration Tent Agents (Race Day)
As a Day of Race Packet Pickup volunteer, you will assign race bibs, distribute t-shirts, and assist pre-registered participants with questions, as well as help day-of registrants complete the process. Comfort using an iPad or similar device is a plus. The ability to stand for a long period is a must. Help pack up supplies after the race. This job is inside a heated tent.
Coffee/Cocoa (Race Day)
One of the best jobs on a chilly day. Stay warm with cozy beverages as you maintain a stock of supplies in the Coffee & Hot Cocoa tent. Finish the day by helping to clean up the Coffee & Hot Cocoa area.
Course Marshal (Race Day)
Help our participants go down the right path. Course Marshals direct runners and walkers along the course and provide encouragement to them throughout the race.
Water Station Attendants (Race Day)
As a Water Stop volunteer, you will provide runners and walkers with water along the course, restock and maintain water stations, and assist in water station clean-up after the race. And of course, cheer loudly. It’s a great job for families or groups that want to work as a team.
Clean-up (Race Day)
Being a good neighbor is important to us. Clean-Up volunteers assist in post-event cleanup around the race grounds and Birdie Derby lots.
Benefits of Volunteering
All volunteers receive a free Birdie Derby winter hat, plus a chance to win some fabulous prizes. You could win gift cards from some amazing sponsors. (To be eligible, you must sign up and perform a volunteer job. All confirmed volunteers who perform their assigned jobs will be entered in the post-race raffle. The winners will be randomly selected, notified by email, and we will arrange for winners to receive their prizes.)
Plus, and more importantly, you are going to get tons of good feels for helping our runners, walkers, and spectators enjoy an exciting day of fun. Some of our volunteers come to learn more about the race. Some come to support the Active Youth Wisconsin’s mission. Did you know that 100% of the proceeds from the Birdie Derby go to the Madison-based Active Youth Wisconsin? Active Youth Wisconsin creates accessible opportunities for kids to be active, helping them recognize the mental and physical benefits that regular movement provides. Ready to sign up? Click the link and register for open positions. Make it even more fun by bringing family and friends.
If you are interested in taking on a more leadership role with the Derby, take the next step by clicking here to contact us. Tell us a little about yourself. Help us grow our team and stay a strong contributing member of the community.
100% of proceeds supports financial aid and the Grants 4 Schools program. The Grants 4 Schools program provides financial support to school-based wellness initiatives that promote student well-being. Each fall, we accept applications from teachers, students, and community members who have ideas for projects that can positively influence their students’ overall wellness. Since 2011, Tri 4 Schools has donated over half million dollars to over 200 schools.
