Celebrate the Holiday Season with Festive 5Ks

The holidays bring some classic scenes to mind. Lounging next to a fire and eating cookies. Rocking red and green pajamas. And drinking mug after mug of hot cocoa, to name a few. ‘Tis the season for sitting, which is why a holiday-themed 5K race couldn’t come at a better time. Celebrate and work off some of those not-so-jolly calories at these festive races.

A Christmas Story 5K/10K Run

In Cleveland, Ohio, you can run in the town that Ralphie in the movie A Christmas Story called home. In fact, the starting line of this race is right next to Ralphie’s iconic house. You’ll receive a medal featuring a famous line from the movie and get the opportunity to see runners in ensembles inspired by A Christmas Story. We bet there’s a lot of people in pink bunny costumes.

Donut 5K Holiday Run/Walk

The people of Carmel, Ind., know how to treat their 5K finishers. After participating in a race that benefits local homeless animals, you’ll receive the swag of all race swag — a box of donuts. And if you have an especially insatiable craving for sugar, donuts will even be given out during the race. How’s that for a sweet reward?

Caribbean Christmas 5K

Ironically, this is another holiday-themed race hailing from Carmel, Ind.! If you love Christmas but aren’t so in love with winter, this race is perfect for you. Wear a tropically festive outfit (if you’re brave, wear shorts!) and get a finisher’s medal featuring a surfboard-toting Santa. Piña coladas not included.

A Christmas Carol Classic 5K, 10K & Tiny Tim 1K

A race is hard any time of year, but a winter race is that much more difficult. This race in Denver, Colo., just might inspire you to keep pushing toward that finish line. Carolers will sing at the start and throughout the course. And you’ll receive an impressive medal when you finish. If Tiny Tim could melt Scrooge’s heart, you can do this.

Sweaty Sheep’s Christmas 5K & Eggnog Challenge

Those refreshing cups of water at race stations are highly anticipated among runners. Except at this race, you could be drinking eggnog instead. Louisville, Ky., is home to a race unlike any other. Choose the typical 5K option, or if you’re feeling brave, sign up for the Eggnog Challenge. Each participant has to down three cups of eggnog during the race. If you (and your stomach) reach the finish line, you’ll get a special prize.

Christmas Light Run

This nighttime race in Kansas City, Mo., is truly magical. As you run amid the glow of Christmas lights and sparkly decorations, you might just forget you’re in the middle of running a race. After you cross the finish line, join in a post-race party complete with food trucks and heated areas to warm up.

The Whoville 5K

This Grand Rapids, Mich., 5K race is themed around the beloved How the Grinch Stole Christmas. And by themed, we mean the Grinch himself will actually be running the course along with the runners. He’s sure to be more naughty than nice as he tries to steer runners off course and reach his lair in Mount Crumpit. It’s great holiday fun with a little running thrown in.