Running (or walking) a race is a lot of fun. If you’ve never tried it, you really should. If you intend to run it, it can serve as a good motivator to keep you committed to your exercise routine. And walking it is still good exercise and a great way to spend time with friends.
Part of the fun is in the creativity of the events themselves. There are thousands of races throughout the country every year, and a lot of them have special themes. You might have heard of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series or the Hot Chocolate 15K. There are so many races I would love to do just because of the themed fun.
With the Christmas season upon us (and so many of us flipping out about holiday weight gain), I wanted to share with you some of the fun holiday themed runs on the schedule. Check these out (to cheer or participate) if you live close enough; otherwise, search your area for races happening this month and get out there and give it a go!
A Christmas Story Run
10k/5k
December 5
Cleveland, Ohio
Proceeds benefit A Christmas Story House Foundation. Runners are encouraged to dress up as characters from the movie.
Run, Santa, Run
5k
December 5
Madison, Wisconsin
Each runner registers as Santa, an elf, or a reindeer–and the race t-shirt, which you wear to run, reflects this choice. You’ll also get a Santa hat, elf hat, or reindeer antlers to complete your look. It’s truly for fun, as the event isn’t timed, but there is a prize for the first Santa, elf, and reindeer who cross the finish line. You get a prize for beating the Grinch, too! Free race photos and an after party round out this event, which is held in all but the most severe of weather.
The Ugly Sweater Run
5k
multiple dates
multiple cities
This race is not timed, but prizes are awarded for Best Ugly Sweater, Best Pet Attire, and more. Participants get a knit hat and a beer at the finish, and aid stations feature hot chocolate.
Sacramento Santa Run
5k
December 19
Sacramento, CA
This is a timed event with prizes for the winners, but all runners get a Santa suit (YES!), race t-shirt, goodie bag, free ice skate rentals, and…milk and cookies at the finish line! The two aid stations feature candy canes and cider as well as the more traditional water.
Resolution Run
10k/5k/1 mile
December 31
Las Vegas, NV
What a happy new year! End 2015 and start 2016 with a healthy activity. Finishers get a champagne glass, t-shirt, and an ornament.
I want to do all of these! Are you running or walking any holiday themed runs this year?