Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash
When is Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash?
Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash takes place on Thursday, November 26, 2026 in Indianapolis, IN.
What distances does Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash offer?
Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash offers 3 events: 2.6 Mile Mini Gobbler Run/Walk, 4.3 Mile Full Gobbler Run/Walk, #OuttaTownDashAround Virtual Race.
| Event | Distance | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.6 Mile Mini Gobbler Run/Walk | 2.6 mi | $35.00 | Register |
| 4.3 Mile Full Gobbler Run/Walk | 4.3 mi | $35.00 | Register |
| #OuttaTownDashAround Virtual Race | 4.3 mi | $35.00 | Register |
How much does Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash cost?
Registration for Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash starts at $35.00. Prices vary by event distance.
Where is Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash held?
Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash is held in Indianapolis, IN at 1115 Broad Ripple Ave..
About Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash
24th annual Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash, co-presented by Huntington Bank and Lucas Oil!
Thanksgiving morning run/walk to help those experiencing homelessness
9:00am start time
Broad Ripple (Indianapolis, IN)
All proceeds provide programs and services for men, women, and children experiencing homelessness in our community.
Move your feet so others can eat!®
Courses:
4.3 mile "Full Gobbler" course
2.6 mile "Mini Gobbler" course, sponsored by Barnes and Thornburg
Virtual "OuttaTownDashAround" option!
Fun for the whole family!
Pricing

#OuttaTownDashAround Virtual Race
2018 News Coverage
2024 WTHR Commercial
2024 WTHR Event Info
A Favorite Tradition
About Wheeler Mission

Who We Are
Wheeler is a non-denominational, Christian, social services organization, which provides critically needed goods and services to individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, and need in Central and South Central Indiana without regard to race, color, sexual orientation, creed, national origin, or religion.
Our Mission
To provide Christ-centered programs and services for individuals experiencing homelessness and those in need.
Our Vision
To see every man, woman, and child we serve equipped to be productive citizens who enjoy lasting success in Christ.
Adam's Story
Apply to be a 2025 Ambassador!
Are you ready to inspire your community and make a difference? The Drumstick Dash Ambassador Program is your chance to spread the word about Indiana’s favorite Thanksgiving tradition! We’re looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our team and help promote the Dash. Ambassadors will enjoy exclusive perks, connect with fellow supporters, and play a vital role in supporting Wheeler Mission’s life-transforming services. Click here to view all the Drumstick Dash Ambassador Responsibilities and Perks! Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a social media pro, or simply passionate about helping those in need, this is your opportunity to make an impact.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY—don’t miss your chance to dash with purpose!
Become a Sponsor
As an official sponsor, you will have the opportunity to enjoy custom promotions and activations before, during, and after the Drumstick Dash. The Drumstick Dash was the 4th largest Thanksgiving race in the country in 2024, and is also one of the largest running events in the state of Indiana, with over 15,000 participants. All proceeds from event sponsorships support Wheeler Mission in providing help, hope, and healing for those experiencing homelessness.


For more information, email Sponsorship@WheelerMission.org
Become a Vendor
There are multiple ways to be involved at the Drumstick Dash as a vendor, putting your brand in front of over 15,000 attendees. See additional details below regarding booth opportunities at the Expo & Packet Pick-up and Race Day, as well as our virtual swag bag.
Booth at the Expo + Packet Pick-up
November 26th | 9am-6pm | Ag/Hort Building at the Indiana State Fairgrounds
10’x10’ booth: $700
10’x20’ booth: $1,200


Booth Post-Race in Food Court
November 27th | 7:30am-12pm | Broad Ripple
10’x10 booth: $500

On-Course Activation
November 27th | 7:30am-12pm | Broad Ripple
$500

Virtual Swag Bag Ad
Sent to all event participants and volunteers on Monday of Thanksgiving week
$500

For more information, contact us at Sponsorship@WheelerMission.org.
Cameron's Story - WTHR
Cancellation Policy
The Drumstick Dash is owned and operated by Wheeler Mission and 100% of the event proceeds support programs and services to our neighbors experiencing homelessness, hunger, and addiction. Wheeler relies on the income from this event, therefore, refunds are not available.
You can, however, transfer your registration to our Virtual Race and run wherever you are (email us at info@drumstickdash.org to do so) AND you'll receive the cool race shirt in the mail!
In the event that our in-person race must be cancelled, all registrations will automatically be moved to our Virtual Race.
Church Insert
Want to help promote the Drumstick Dash at your church? Click below to download a double-sided insert that can be included in your weekly church bulletin!
Church Screen Image
Corral Map
Course Map
Both courses finish along Broad Ripple Ave!
The main course distance is 4.3 miles. There is a short course (sponsored by Barnes & Thornburg) opportunity of 2.6 miles. Both events are timed. The course is fairly flat with one water station.
The course routes and distances are subject to change due to possible construction.
Check out our 2025 Course Map!

Dave Calabro
We want to celebrate the one and only Dave Calabro and all he has done for Wheeler Mission.
Dave has spent many years joining us for the Drumstick Dash and we will forever be thankful for his contributions and support of Wheeler Mission.
Congratulations on your retirement, you deserve it! Read more about Dave Calabro’s retirement.

DD Ambassador Info Sheet
Donation + Fundraising Info
Donor Advised Funds
Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) are a wonderful way to support and encourage Drumstick Dash participants while benefiting Wheeler Mission. Not only will you encourage your Dasher by giving, but you’ll also make a tremendous impact on the lives of people experiencing homelessness in our community. Grants made to Wheeler Mission through DAFs will be used “where most needed” to help provide nourishing meals, safe shelter, and other essential care to their guests in need.
Clients of some of the largest Donor Advised Funds can easily make a designation by conveniently clicking on the box of their Fund below. If your DAF is not listed, please connect with them directly to get the process started.
When making your gift, please indicate Drumstick Dash and the name of the person fundraising who you are supporting in the designation, and your gift will be credited to his or her personal fundraising page once Wheeler receives the check. You may also need to include Wheeler Mission’s Federal Tax I.D. Number: 35-0888771.
For more information, please contact Jeff Boxell, Wheeler Mission's Senior Director of Donor Relations, at 317.635.3575 or JeffBoxell@wheelermission.org.
THANK YOU for your generous gift during this exceptional time to help our neighbors experiencing homelessness!
Entertainment
Start Line Concert
2000 & Late will be joining us as our 2025 pre-start concert band!

Sponsored by Blonde Entertainment
Thank you Presenting Sponsor of Entertainment, Ambetter Health

On-Course Entertainment
Be on the lookout for some local radio stations and Studio 77 DJs along the course to keep you hyped up!

Event Info
Join us on Thanksgiving for the 23rd annual Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash
co-presented by Huntington Bank and Lucas Oil!
Thanksgiving morning run/walk to help those experiencing homelessness
9:00AM start time in Broad Ripple (Indianapolis, IN)
All proceeds provide programs and services for men, women, and children experiencing homelessness in our community.
Fun for the whole family!
Courses:
4.3 mile "Full Gobbler" course
2.6 mile "Mini Gobbler" course, sponsored by Barnes & Thornburg
Virtual option available
The Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash made the top 100 largest running event list in the country in 2024! It was #3 in the state of Indiana and #75 in the nation with 15,149 registrants and 11,277 finishers.
Expo + Packet Pick-up
2025 Expo + Packet Pick-up
Indiana State Fairgrounds
Ag/Hort Building
Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Expo: 9am - 6pm
Packet Pickup: 9am - 6:30pm

There are three options for packet pickup:
1) Pick up at Expo (11/26 at Indiana State Fairgrounds) - FREE
2) Packet Mailing - $9.99 (available through 11/11)
3) Pick up on Race Day (11/27 at Traders Point Christian Church Midtown) - $5.00
Packet Pickup option is chosen as an add-on during registration.
Expo + Packet Pickup
Expo + Packet Pickup FAQs
Q: Can I pick up my packet before the expo?
A: No. Wednesday, November 26th from 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM is the earliest you can pick your packet up.
Q: What information do I need to pick up my packet?
A: Our timer will send out emails with QR codes at 8:30am on 11/26 for each registrant. If you happen to not get that email, we can check you in with first and last name.
Q: Will there be packet pick-up on race day?
A: Yes. Packets can be picked up at in Broad Ripple (Traders Point Christian Church Midtown) on race day for $5 per person. This option can be added on during registration. If you were planning to pick up your packet at the expo but ended up being unable to, you can pay the $5 on race day and pick it up then.
Q: If I selected to pick up my packet on race day during registration, can I come to the Expo/Packet Pickup at the Indiana State Fairgrounds on 11/26 instead?
A: Yes, absolutely!
Q: If I was unable to pick up my packet at the Expo/Packet Pickup, can I still pick it up on race day?
A: Yes. Packets can be picked up in Broad Ripple (Traders Point Christian Church Midtown) on race day for $5 per person.
Q: Can someone else pick up my packet/can I pick up someone else's packet?
A: Yes!
Q: What information is needed to pick up my (and/or other's) packet(s)?
A: The QR code that was sent in your confirmation email and in a recent reminder email. If you do not have this QR code, we can search by First and Last name as well as DOB (just in case!) for anyone who's packet you are picking up.
Q: I forgot my bib on race day, where can I get a new one?
A: You can come to the help desk (big white tent next to Einstein Bagels) on race day and we will assign you a new one.
Q: I paid for shipping. Where is my shirt.
A: We have outsourced the shipping of shirts this year to a local company and continually sent lists to them for them to ship out. Once your items ship, you should receive a tracking link in an email from tracking@shipstation.com
Q: Can I still pay to have my packet shipped?
A: Yes, the option to have your packet shipped to you will be available for you to add on to your registration through 11/11 so we can make sure everyone receives their items in time for race day.
Q: Will I have to pay to enter the Indiana State Fairgrounds?
A: No. If there is a gate attendant, tell them you are there for the Drumstick Dash Expo and you won't need to pay!
Expo Map + Vendors
Expo Map + Vendors
Expo Parking Map
Expo Parking Map
FAQ
Pre-race FAQ
Q: When and where does the race start?
A: 9:00AM on Broad Ripple Ave. at the entrance of Broad Ripple Park (1426 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220)
Q: Where does the race end?
A: On Broad Ripple Ave, just east of the Monon (1021 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220)
Q: When and where do I pick up my race packet?
A: There are three options for packet pickup:
1) Pick up at Expo (11/26 at Indiana State Fairgrounds) - FREE
2) Packet Mailing (available through 11/11) - $9.99
3) Pick up on Race Day (11/27 at Traders Point Christian Church midtown from 7:30am-8:30am) - $5.00
Q: How do I choose/change my packet pickup option?
A: Packet Pickup option is chosen as an add-on during registration. If you need to change your packet pickup option, you can send an email to info@drumstickdash.org.
Q: How do I start a Fundraiser for Wheeler Mission?
A: At the end of your Drumstick Dash registration, you will be given a link to your own fundraising page. This will also be sent to you in a confirmation email. Send the link to your family and friends, asking them to support Wheeler Mission. Anyone who raises at least $250 qualifies for a race refund down to one penny!
Race Day FAQ
Q: I forgot to bring my bib – what do I do?
A: Go to the Command Center (white tent next to Einstein Bros. Bagels) and get a new tag.
Q: Where is my digital bib? (Virtual #OuttaTownDashAround Race only)
A: Check for a link in your confirmation email. Lost that email? Log into runsignup.com -> profile -> Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash in "upcoming races" -> Click "View Digital Bib"
Q: Where is the Start Line?
A: On Broad Ripple Ave. at the entrance of Broad Ripple Park (1426 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220)
Q: Are strollers and wheelchairs allowed?
A: Yes
Q: Are skates, skateboards, scooters, or bikes allowed?
A: No
Q: Are dogs or other pets allowed?
A: For the safety of your pet and other participants, NO pets are allowed
Registered service animals are allowed
Q: What if I need to report a lost child or if a lost child is found?
A: Accompany child or person reporting lost child to Command Center (white tent next to Einstein Bros. Bagels). A ‘Lost Persons Form’ will be filled out, staff with radio will be contacted along with IMPD. An ‘Incident Report Form’ will also be available at the Command Center for anything significant that Event Staff or IMPD need to know about.
Q: Where are the restrooms?
A: Portables are outside behind Einstein’s Bagels, all around Broad Ripple Middle School, in front of Traders Point Christian Church Midtown, outside PNC bank on Keystone Ave, and at Kessler Blvd and College Ave. There are no indoor restrooms.
Q: Where is the Finish Line?
A: For both the long and short courses, it is located on Broad Ripple Ave, just east of the Monon (1021 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220)
Q: Is there a lost and found?
A: Yes, go to the Command Center white tent next to Einstein Bros. Bagels.
Q: Where and when does the Lil’ Gobbler’s Run take place?
A: The Ambetter Health Lil’ Gobbler’s Run will take place on Broad Ripple Ave near the Food Court. We will be continually running heats from 10:15am-11:00am
Q: Where is Gear Check?
A: We will have gear check available in the large white tent next to Einstein Bagels.
Q: If someone is in need of First Aid, where do they go?
A: For minor issues, send them to the First Aid Tent near the Finish Line. For major issues, call 911.
Q: Do you give out Finisher's Medals?
A: No, we do not have medals for the Drumstick Dash.
Q: Are there prizes for the run?
A: • Largest team (Large Corporation, Small Corporation, School/Organization, Friends/Family)
• Top fundraiser
• Top 5 male finishers (4.3 mile)
• Top 5 female finishers (4.3 mile)
• First to catch the turkey (Dash)
Q: Where can I make a donation to Wheeler Mission?
A: You can drop off cash or checks at the Wheeler Mission tent in the food court parking lot. Online donations can be made by clicking here.
Q: Where are parking and shuttle bus options?
A: Parking Options:
• Neighborhood streets
• Local parking garage
Limited parking is available at the following Shuttle Bus locations:
• Park Tudor Lower Parking Lot (7200 N College Ave)
• Southern end of Meijer parking lot (5550 N Keystone Ave)
• Bishop Chatard High School (5885 N Crittenden Ave)
Shuttles will run from:
7:15am - 8:30am
10:30am - 12:00pm
Q: How do I get back to my car if I took the shuttle here?
A: The shuttles will pick you up wherever they dropped you off. The shuttles will be running on a loop so if it is not present when you get there, just wait a couple minutes for one to come back around.
Q: What time do roads close and reopen on Thanksgiving morning?
A: Click here to view our Traffic & Road Closures Map
Q: How can I volunteer at Wheeler Mission?
A: Go to the Wheeler Mission tent in the Food Court Party Area and someone there will be able to help you (tent is blue with large, white Wheeler logo). Or visit WheelerVolunteer.org.
Q: How do I know when my turkey is done?
A: According to the Department of Agriculture, scientific research indicates that food borne pathogens and viruses, such as Salmonella, Campylobacter and the avian influenza virus, are destroyed when poultry is cooked to an internal temperature of 165o F. The Food Safety and Inspection Service recommend the use of a food thermometer to monitor internal temperature. For reasons of personal preference, consumers may choose to cook turkey to higher temperatures.
Firefighters on a Mission
Fundraising Incentive Program
Fundraising for Wheeler Mission
Want to reduce your registration down to a penny and earn gift cards from event sponsor, Athletic Annex? Go the extra mile and become a fundraiser! Everyone who registers for the Drumstick Dash automatically receives access to a personal fundraising page and are encouraged to raise even more funds for Wheeler Mission and the men, women, and children experiencing homelessness. Fundraising is not required, but we have incentives for those who do!
$125 Level
Use your personal fundraising page and raise a minimum of $125 to earn a $10 gift card to event sponsor, Athletic Annex.
$250 Level

Each person who raises a minimum of $250 on their personal fundraising page has the option of getting their registration reduced down to a penny in our "Run for a Penny!" incentive program.
If you qualify for our “Run for a Penny” program and would like your registration reduced to a penny, simply email us at info@drumstickdash.org and let us know. All refund emails must be sent by Tuesday, November 18, 2025.
$500 Level
Use your personal fundraising page and raise a minimum of $500 to earn a $25 gift card to event sponsor, Athletic Annex.
$1,000 Level
Use your personal fundraising page and raise a minimum of $1,000 to earn a $50 gift card to event sponsor, Athletic Annex.
Click HERE to for instructions on how to find and manage your fundraising page and GET STARTED TODAY!
How to Download and Use RaceJoy

We are excited about adding the RaceJoy app to the Drumstick Dash experience for all participants! It can help you know your pace and you can receive real-time support from your friends and family as they track you live from home while cooking Thanksgiving dinner, or while traveling to grandma's house!
HOW DOES RACEJOY WORK?
RaceJoy is a GPS-based tracking app that follows your progress in real-time as you run or walk your race. Both the participant and the spectator must download the app, and keep their phones with them - but with a few easy steps, you have access to a number of fun features.
LIVE PHONE TRACKING
This is not an estimator and is based on the actual position of the participant's phone - your supporters know exactly where you are. Includes NearMe alerts and a handy MeetUp feature.
GPS PROGRESS ALERTS
In-person participants can receive progress alerts for yourself and others as you cross milestones along the course. Typically, alerts are sent at EVERY MILE, including location, pace, elapsed time and estimated finish time.
CHEERS
Your family and friends can send motivational, pre-recorded audio cheer clips or personalized Text-to-Cheer messages to you leading up to, during, and after the race.
VIRTUAL RESULTS SUBMISSION
Your results will be automatically submitted to us!
DOWNLOAD THE APP AND GET STARTED
Download the app now and test it out before race day! RaceJoy is available for Apple and Android phones and tablets.
Download for Apple
Download for Android
Watch the video below to take a tour of the app and see how it works.
Need more information? Visit the RaceJoy website - RaceJoy.net.
How to Switch Distances on RaceJoy
Largest Team Contest
Largest Team Contest
Register as a team for the Drumstick Dash!
Team categories are: Large Corporate, Small Corporate, Schools and Clubs, Friends and Family.
Contest deadline is Monday, November 25, 2024 at 9AM.
2023 Largest Friends and Family Team:
Turkey Traditions - 102 people!
2023 Largest Schools and Clubs Team:
Christ the King Tiger Running Club - 204 people!
2023 Largest Large Corporate Team:
Allison Transmission - 545 people!
Lucas Oil Joins Huntington Bank as Co-Presenting Sponsor for the 2025 Drumstick Dash
INDIANAPOLIS (Apr. 24, 2025) - Lucas Oil is proud to announce its expanded partnership with Wheeler Mission as a co-presenting sponsor for the 2025 Drumstick Dash, one of the nation’s largest Thanksgiving Day run/walk events. The annual event brings together over 15,000 participants and 100% of the proceeds directly support Wheeler Mission’s services, which includes serving meals and providing shelter and resources to individuals experiencing homelessness in Central and South Central Indiana.
“Our involvement with Wheeler Mission has been incredibly meaningful, and stepping up as a co-presenting sponsor of the Drumstick Dash is an opportunity to deepen that commitment,” said Morgan Lucas, CEO of Lucas Oil and Wheeler Mission Board Member. “This event has become such a big part of our culture and one of our favorite partnerships. Our team takes incredible pride in supporting an organization that provides life-changing services to those in need all around us.”
Lucas Oil has been a supporter of Wheeler Mission since 2022, contributing both financially and through hands-on volunteer efforts. Employees and their families not only participate in the Drumstick Dash each year, but they also dedicate their time packing sack lunches and serving meals at Wheeler Mission’s Center for Women and Children, Men’s Residential Center, and Shelter for Men.
“On any given night, more than 1,700 people in Indianapolis find themselves experiencing homelessness - that’s why supporting Wheeler Mission is so important,” added Katie Lucas, President of Lucas Oil. “Their faith-based approach not only offers essential services but also spiritual guidance as well and that can have a transformative impact on a person’s life. At Lucas Oil, we believe in using our platform to make a real difference, and supporting Wheeler Mission allows us to do just that.”
Lucas Oil joins long-time Drumstick Dash Presenting Sponsor, Huntington Bank in this novel Co-Presenting Sponsor role.
“With a focus on strengthening the communities we serve, Huntington Bank is proud to continue our commitment to helping people experiencing homelessness through our sponsorship of the Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash,” said Scott Ransburg, Market President of Huntington Bank. “We’re especially excited to welcome Lucas Oil as our co-presenting sponsor for this impactful event -- this kind of community collaboration is exactly what’s needed to ensure that people in our community are supported. We believe that our partnership with Wheeler Mission is critical to making sure every person experiencing homelessness receives the care they deserve.”
"Wheeler Mission is proud to partner with Lucas Oil, and we’re especially excited about this new and creative co-presenting sponsorship,” said Brian Crispin, Wheeler Mission Chief Marketing and Communications Officer. “Collaborations like this are exactly what our community needs to ensure that every person experiencing homelessness receives the help they so urgently need."
The 2025 Drumstick Dash will take place on Thanksgiving Day in Broad Ripple. Participants can register and learn more about the event at DrumstickDash.org. To learn more about Wheeler Mission’s impact and how to get involved, visit Wheelermission.org.
ABOUT LUCAS OIL
For more than 35 years, Lucas has set the world standard in superior engine oils, additives, appearance and lubricant products – powering lifestyles across the automotive, trucking, marine, outdoor, motorsports, industrial and home product worlds. The hard-charging American brand’s commitment to bring the ultimate in performance solutions impacts every customer and partner equally – from jointly-engineered oil for racing teams like Richard Childress Racing (RCR), Monster Jam®, sports teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Indianapolis Colts, to additives that deliver unrivaled fuel economy, power and extended engine life to an everyday driver.
Based in Indianapolis, the company’s rapidly expanding global footprint is highlighted by cutting-edge research and development operations, evolving retail channels and high-tech manufacturing. More than 300 premium products make up the largest variety of shelf products of any oil company in the United States with a distribution network across 48 different countries and big-name retailers that include Amazon, Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, NAPA, Walmart, Home Depot, Harbor Freight, Rural King, Tractor Supply and more. For additional information, visit www.LucasOil.com and follow #TeamLucasOil on Facebook, Twitter, X, Instagram and TikTok. Lucas Oil was recognized as America’s Most Trusted and Most Loved Brands for 2025.
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Mark has run in every Drumstick Dash!
Marketing Order Form
CLICK HERE to fill out a form for desired Drumstick Dash 2022 marketing materials!
Media Coverage
OTDA Photo Contest
The photos are in, and we love seeing all these fun pictures from around Indiana, and around the world! 1,200 people moved their feet so others can eat in this virtual option. And now it’s time to vote for your favorite #OuttaTownDashAround photos!
Here’s how to participate:
Click the link to our #OuttaTownDashAround Facebook photo album https://www.facebook.com/media/set?vanity=DrumstickDashIndy&set=a.508412187983831
To vote for your favorite photo, simply click “like” on the photo. You can vote for as many photos as you like.
That’s it! The picture inside the album with the most likes as of 9AM Monday morning wins!
Tips: Share the album or your photo to your friends and family! Let them know to “like” the photo in the album to help you win! Remember, liking the album or liking your post doesn’t count. They need to like the photo IN the album.
Top ten photos win a prize from Fleet Feet!
The winning photo wins the grand prize from Fleet Feet!
If you haven’t submitted your photo, please email them to info@drumstickdash.org and we’ll add it to the album.

Special thanks to our sponsor, Schneider.
Parking and Road Closure Info
Parking Info
Prizes
Thank you to our sponsor, Athletic Annex, for providing the prizes below!

Event Prizes
- $100 Gift Card for top 5 male and top 5 female finishers
- $100 Gift Card for the turkey catcher
- $100 Gift Card for virtual photo contest winner
- $20 Gift Cards for the virtual option photo contest submissions (2nd - 10th place)
- $5 Gift Card for all official timed finishers (to be emailed post-race)
Fundraising Prizes
- Top 3 fundraisers receive a VIP experience (from Wheeler Mission) and Trophy for #1
- $50 Gift Card for people who raise $1,000
- $25 Gift Card to people who raise $500
- Refund registration down to a penny (from Wheeler Mission) and gold bib for people who raise $250 (from Wheeler Mission)
- $10 Gift Card for people who raise $125
Registration Referral Prizes
- $100 Gift Card for people who reach 20 referrals.
- $50 Gift Card for people who reach 10 referrals.
- $25 Gift Card for people who reach 7 referrals.
- $10 off Drumstick Dash registration for people who reach 5 referrals (from Wheeler Mission)
Promotional Materials
Questions?
Email us at info@drumstickdash.org
Race Day Info
Race Day Schedule
7:15 AM Shuttle service begins
8:00 Pre-race concert by 2000 & Late
8:30 Shuttle service stops
8:45 Pre-race program begins
9:00 Race begins
10:15 Lil' Gobbler's Run heats begin
10:30 Shuttle service begins again
11:00 Lil' Gobbler's Run heats end
11:30 Course closes
12:00 PM Shuttle service ends
Start Line Concert
2000 & Late will be joining us as our 2025 pre-start concert band!

Sponsored by Blonde Entertainment
Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor of Entertainment, Ambetter Health

Course Entertainment
We will have fun entertainment along the course including music from:
Studio 77 DJs
107.9 The Mix
99.5 ZPL
104.5 WJJK
93.9 WNDX-FM
99.5 ZPL
95.5 WFMS
Food Court
After you cross the finish line, you'll continue on to our Kroger Food Court to refuel with bananas, snacks, and more!


Gear Check
We will have gear check available in the large white tent next to Einstein Bagels.
Ambetter Health Lil' Gobbler's Run
Kids 12 and under can chase our turkey mascot, Dash! This post-race 40 yard dash starts at 10:15am on Broad Ripple Ave. after the Finish Line with multiple "heats" running through 11:00am. All finishers will receive a cool medal. Sponsored by Ambetter Health.


Celebrity Challenge
Our annual Celebrity Challenge is a fun tradition on Thanksgiving morning.
Every year, a group of local celebrities starts out in front of the pack in a challenge to be the fastest local celebrity around!

Awards
• Largest team (Large Corporation, Small Corporation, School/Organization, Friends/Family)
• Top fundraiser
• Top 5 male finishers (4.3 mile)
• Top 5 female finishers (4.3 mile)
• First to catch the turkey (Dash)
Race Day Parking + Shuttles
Parking Options:
• Neighborhood streets
• Local parking garages
Limited parking is available at the following Shuttle Bus locations:
• Park Tudor Lower Parking Lot (7200 N College Ave)
• Southern end of Meijer parking lot (5550 N Keystone Ave)
• Bishop Chatard High School (5885 N Crittenden Ave)
Shuttles will run 7:15am-8:30am and then again from 10:30am-12:00pm
Click here to view a map with the shuttle drop off and pick up locations.
Shuttles are sponsored by ![]()
Be sure to arrive early enough to give yourself time to park and get to the start line on time.

Race Results
RaceJoy
Referral Refund Program
Become a referrer!
Looking for a way to reduce the cost of your registration? This is for you! Here's how it works: Once registered for the event, you will automatically be supplied with a unique referral code that will credit you as the referrer any time a user registers as a result of your referral. Here's how it works:
When the 5th person registers using your referral code, $10 will be refunded from your registration cost, not to exceed the cost of your registration (fees, donations, store purchases, coupon codes, and add-ons do not qualify for refund).
EARN MORE!
In addition, you can earn gift cards from event sponsor, Athletic Annex! 
- When seven (7) people register using your referral code, you earn a $25 gift card from race sponsor, Athletic Annex!
- When ten (10) people register using your referral code, you earn a $50 gift card from race sponsor, Athletic Annex!
- When twenty (20) people register using your referral code, you earn a $100 gift card from race sponsor, Athletic Annex!
Note: Each registered person has their own unique referral code.
*Registrations must be made by using your unique referral code/link and be completed by end of day Wednesday, November 19th to qualify.
Locating Your Personal Referral Code
There are three main locations you can find your referral code
- Within your Confirmation Email
- Within your RunSignup Profile
- Within the confirmation page following Registration
Locating Your Referral Code From Your Confirmation Email
Within your confirmation email, you will be able to find your referral code/link.

Locating Your Referral Code From Your RunSignup Profile
From your RunSignup profile, you can access your referral code by scrolling down to the bottom of your profile and selecting My Referrals under the Runner Links section. If you have registered for multiple races that have setup referral tracking, you will be able to see all of your referral codes from here.

Be sure to share the link with your referral code in it with family and friends who may be interested in joining you (ex: including the link in a Facebook status, a tweet on Twitter, a blog posting, a monthly newsletter, on the side of blimp, etc.). And since we have the #outtatowndasharound virtual option, people from all across the country (or the world!) can participate, all while supporting a great cause!
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at info@DrumstickDash.org.
Shuttle Map
Shuttles are sponsored by ![]()
Slide Image
Social Graphic
Social Image
Sponsor Toolkit and Social Photos
To download, right click on (if on a computer) or press and hold (if on a phone) the image you would like to use. You can then save and/or share the image.



Stories
The Story of the Wheeler Mission Drumstick Dash
Traffic & Road Closures Map
All times are approximate and subject to change
Trista - Five time Drumstick Dasher
Turning Lives Around
View our Expo Vendors
Volunteer
Volunteer
THANK YOU!

Not only do you help make our events happen, but YOU are helping a greater cause –
providing help, hope, and healing to those experiencing homelessness in our community. We couldn’t do this without you!
THIS YEAR:
Participants – 15,149
In 22 years, 272,410 runners/walkers have participated.
Sales and Income –$1 Million (gross) was earned from event activities!
We have lots volunteer opportunities for the Expo and Race Day.
I am so thankful for each of our volunteers.
All volunteer opportunities will be live April 1st.
Be sure to check back!
Volunteer Opportunities
Welcome to the Drumstick Dash volunteer page! I’m so glad you are here!
The Drumstick Dash is more than just a Thanksgiving tradition—it’s a race with a purpose! As Wheeler Mission’s largest fundraiser, this event directly supports men, women, and children experiencing homelessness by providing essential shelter, meals, and life-changing programs.
By volunteering, YOU play a vital role in making the event a success. From handing out water and directing runners to cheering on participants and assisting behind the scenes, every role helps bring hope to those in need.
We have a variety of volunteer opportunities, including Expo + Packet Pick-up the day before the race, Race Day roles, and pre-event options. Click the button below to find the perfect fit for you!
I’m incredibly grateful for each of our volunteers—we couldn’t do this without you!
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to email me at sarahensminger@wheelermission.org.
With gratitude,
Sarah Ensminger
Special Events Assistant - Volunteers

VR 360 Drumstick Dash Course from Harbor Pictures Company
Experience the entire 4.6-mile course with this stunning 360 degree video! Watch from your PC, phone Youtube app, or for the best experience, use a VR headset to feel like you’re right inside the crowd!
Here are some key points you’ll want to check out:
:10 🏃♂️🏃♀️ Start Line Fun!
1:20 Running under the American flag (look up!)
1:40 🦃 Passing DASH, the Official Mascot (look left)
7:10 🎼 WJJK Fun Zone
10:00 👨🚒👩🚒 Pass Firefighters on a Mission on Kessler Blvd. (look right)
13:10 💧 📸 Christ the King Water Station and Fun Zone
14:30 🎼 K-LOVE/Northminster Church Fun Zone
25:00 💧 📸 Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling Water Station and Fun Zone
29:30 🎼 WFMS Fun Zone
36:00 🎼 GEICO Fun Zone
37:20 🎼 Studio 77 DJ Fun Zone and final turn
39:30 😀🏆 Finish line!
Watch Dash hang out with some of our Sponsors!
What comes with my Drumstick Dash registration?





























