Daytona Beach, FL — November 27, 2025
The roar of engines and the sight of gleaming chrome filled the air at Daytona International Speedway this Thanksgiving as the annual Turkey Run car show kicked into high gear. Despite bone-chilling winds and temperatures that dipped far below the Florida norm, thousands of enthusiasts bundled up and poured through the gates, proving once again that the Turkey Run is more than just a car show—it’s a holiday tradition.
🚗 Classic Cars Meet Cold Weather
Rows upon rows of vintage automobiles, hot rods, and custom builds lined the infield, their polished surfaces reflecting the pale winter sun. From restored 1950s Chevrolets to modern muscle cars, the event showcased the full spectrum of American automotive history. Yet, it wasn’t just the cars that caught attention—it was the sight of attendees wrapped in scarves, gloves, and heavy jackets, braving the brisk air to admire their favorite rides.
“This is the coldest Turkey Run I can remember,” said longtime participant Bill Henderson of Ormond Beach, who displayed his 1967 Mustang Fastback. “But you can’t keep us away. The cars, the people, the tradition—it’s worth every shiver.”
🦃 A Holiday Gathering
The Turkey Run, now in its 52nd year, has become a Thanksgiving weekend staple for Daytona Beach. Families, collectors, and tourists alike flock to the Speedway, turning the event into a reunion of sorts. Food vendors served steaming cups of hot cocoa alongside the usual barbecue and funnel cakes, while children darted between rows of cars, their laughter mixing with the rumble of engines.
For many, the cold weather added a unique charm. “It feels like a real northern Thanksgiving,” joked Maria Lopez, visiting from Miami. “We’re used to sweating in November, so this is a nice change—even if my hands are freezing.”
🌬️ Weather Challenges
The cold front that swept across Florida earlier in the week brought temperatures into the low 40s by morning, with gusty winds making it feel even colder. Organizers encouraged attendees to dress warmly, and many vendors adapted by offering hot drinks and heated tents. Still, the chill didn’t dampen spirits. Attendance remained strong, with early estimates suggesting tens of thousands of visitors over the holiday weekend.
🎉 Tradition Endures
For Daytona Beach, the Turkey Run is more than an automotive showcase—it’s a symbol of community resilience and celebration. Even in the face of unusual weather, the event carried on with its trademark energy. Car clubs from across the Southeast rolled in, vendors displayed rare parts and memorabilia, and the swap meet buzzed with deals and stories.
As the sun set over the Speedway, the cold lingered, but so did the warmth of tradition. The Turkey Run once again proved that no matter the weather, Daytona Beach’s love for cars—and for gathering together—remains unstoppable.