Looking back on Daytona’s 38th Annual Spring Turkey Run

The 38th Annual Opener Continues to Bring the Heat!

Daytona sure knows how to open up the show season in style! You may have seen our coverage of the Fall Turkey Run in the past, and the Spring Turkey Run continues for its 38th year now. Not quite as large as the fall event but just as much fun is the spring version, which uses the same format that begins with a marvelous collection of custom and classic vehicles parked on the infield of the Daytona International Speedway.

MoChecking out the imaginative approaches used by thousands of builders is a treat for any enthusiast. Move to the center of the track and you will find hundreds of swap meet vendors, happy to help you with your latest restoration project. From the smallest cotter pins to blown V-8s on stands, they make it easy to take home what you need. If you’re looking to buy or trade, the Turkey Run Car Corral has hundreds of vehicles to choose from with sellers eager to make a sale. If all that walking developed a thirst, check out the Hops & Hoods Craft Beer Festival on Saturday and sample brews from local breweries. Food options were everywhere, ranging from classic fair favorites to delicious local treats. If you needed a souvenir of the event, Artisan Alley showcased wares from  local artisans and crafters. This combination of events is a format that’s tailor-made for enthusiasts—but there’s more.

Everyone hopes to win the 2024 raffle car, and this year a high-performance 1996 Camaro Z-28/SS featuring a Lingenfelter Special Edition Supercharged 383 V-8 that pumps out a healthy 500hp was up for grabs. Raffle proceeds always benefit Volusia County charities. If your energy levels hold up, make plans to visit Turkey Run Nites, the free evening car show outside the track sponsored by the Daytona Beach Street Rods. Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. is the opportunity many enthusiasts wait for, eager to take a ceremonial lap and experience the 31-degree banking of the legendary Daytona International Speedway. If you happen to be in town over the Thanksgiving weekend, put the November Turkey Run on your calendar, November 28 through December 1, 2024.

For more information on either the fall or spring event, go to www.turkeyrun.com.


 

Photo Credit: Joe Greeves