Car enthusiasts and classic automobile lovers from all over the country know that the Daytona Turkey Run is the place to be each November. This legendary event, held at the Daytona International Speedway, is the largest classic car show and swap meet in the USA — a Thanksgiving weekend tradition that has become synonymous with family, fun, and the roar of engines.
But how did it all begin? Let’s take a cruise back in time to see how the Turkey Run grew from a small local gathering into one of the nation’s premier automotive celebrations.
The Beginning: A Father, A Son, and a Dream
The Turkey Run was born out of a simple yet powerful idea — a place where every car lover was welcome. It all started in November 1973 when Stu Sarjeant and his four-year-old son, Jim, tried to enter their 1923 Ford T-Bucket Hot Rod into the Ormond Beach Gaslight Parade. Unfortunately, they were turned away because modified cars, like Hot Rods, weren’t allowed.
Jim, disappointed, asked his dad if they could create their own parade next year — and that simple question sparked an idea that would grow into something much bigger than either could have imagined. The following year, in 1974, the very first Turkey Run took place with just 45 cars in the parking lot of the Howard Johnson Hotel across from Bellair Plaza.
From Humble Beginnings to National Recognition
By 1976, the newly formed Daytona Beach Street Rods Club, with only five members, helped grow the event even more. It moved to Bellair Plaza, added live bluegrass music, charity raffles, and doubled participation.
As interest exploded, the event shifted to Seabreeze High School in 1982 — a turning point that introduced the beloved swap meet, where enthusiasts could buy, sell, and trade rare auto parts. By 1987, over 900 cars participated, prompting another move to the Daytona Beach Airport, and just two years later, to its now-iconic home — the Daytona International Speedway.
This move in 1989 solidified the Turkey Run as a true national event, perfectly blending Daytona Beach’s racing heritage with classic car culture.
The Growth of a Tradition: The Birth of the Spring Turkey Run
As popularity soared, organizers launched a second event — the Spring Daytona Turkey Run — in 1990. It quickly became another favorite, giving car lovers two opportunities a year to come together and celebrate their passion.
Today, the Fall Daytona Turkey Run attracts nearly 7,000 vintage, classic, muscle, race cars, and trucks, while the Spring event draws over 2,000 vehicles each year.
The event now features:
- A massive swap meet filled with rare and hard-to-find auto parts
- A car corral for buying and selling classic vehicles
- Live entertainment and celebrity appearances
- Thousands of spectators and collectors from across the nation
The Turkey Run Today: A Must-See Fall Event in Daytona Beach
From its small beginnings in 1974 to today’s massive four-day showcase, the Daytona Turkey Run continues to celebrate automotive artistry and community spirit.
If you’re heading to the Fall Turkey Run 2025 (November 27–30, 2025), make the most of your stay by pairing the action of the Speedway with the tranquility of the beach.
Stay at Max Beach Resort – Your Oceanfront Escape After the Show
After a full day of cars, chrome, and classics, unwind in comfort at Max Beach Resort, just a short drive from the Speedway.
Why Stay With Us:
• Spacious condo-style residences with full kitchens and oceanfront terraces
• Easy access to the Daytona International Speedway
• Venn Bar Beachside Eatery — the perfect place to relax and refuel
• Breathtaking sunrises and sunsets right from your balcony
Experience the best of Daytona Beach this Thanksgiving weekend. Book your stay today and make your Turkey Run getaway one to remember!
For more details about the Daytona Turkey Run, visit www.turkeyrun.com.
