Get ready for the 45th Annual Daytona Turkey Run

Do you remember the first car you ever drove? How about the first car you ever bought? Most of us have fond memories of those milestone days. Learning to drive and buying a car are rites of passage for teenagers and young adults, so it is not surprising that seeing these cars brings on some nostalgic memories for many folks.
The Daytona Turkey Run is a senior-friendly event that has something to offer for every member of the family. The casual spectator might wander throughout the 5000 cars on display and notice some familiar sights. Show entrants are often known to share the story behind their automobile, sometimes with a photo album tour! They could be the original owner, or they may have bought it later and made some modifications, or even restored it. Another spectator who is a car enthusiast, might head over to the Swap Meet area to look for parts or other memorabilia related to their own specific area of interest. Someone who has thought about purchasing a classic car would also be in luck as there will be 1500 vehicles for sale in the Car Corral area. While looking at all the sights and vendor booths, an ice-cold beer might be in order, after all, there will be 30 craft beers highlighted at the Hops and Hoods Craft Beer Festival. Another area of vendors will include artisans with unique art and fashion items for sale. For the youngest set, the original Batcopter will be on display, and bounce houses are located in the Little Gobbler’s Play Zone.
The Daytona Turkey Run is held every year at the Daytona International Speedway, 1801 West International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach. The largest classic car show and swap meet in the United States, the Daytona Turkey Run begins this year on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 22, and continues through Sunday, November 25. The ticket price is $15, except on Sunday, when the price is $10 per person. This year marks the 45^th anniversary of the popular event.
All of the action takes place on the infield of the two and a half tracks. There are three entry gates from the north parking lot. The east entrance brings visitors straight into the center of the Show Cars area. The center entrance is the closest to the scooter rental area and the children’s area. The west entrance is the best place to enter for the Swap Meet. A good plan is to arrive early for the best parking. For many seniors, an all-day outing might require some assistance; scooters are available, as well as free shuttles to transport visitors to the scooter rental area. There are many areas for free parking, including One Daytona, which is across the street from the Daytona International Speedway. One Daytona also offers a variety of entertainment, dining, and shopping opportunities.
Everybody should attend the Daytona Turkey Run at least one time. It is amazing to see the cars from years gone by and compare them to today’s modern vehicles. The numbers and variety of cars to see is astounding. There is simply nothing else like this annual car show.