The holidays are a time for food, family and friends, and what better way to incorporate all of those things than a holiday 5K? Everybody can eat what they want before and after the race and then run/walk with family and friends.
There is no shortage of opportunities in Greater Tampa Bay, so get the comfy pants out and start stretching.
Thanksgiving Day Races
For those who have never done a 5K before Thanksgiving, it is an experience not to be missed, and they are not just for serious runners. Not only does it feel good to get out and get active before sitting down for dinner, but some runners dress up like turkeys, so that makes it interesting.
There are quite a few opportunities this year. The Tampa Bay Turkey Trot and the Tampa YMCA Turkey Gobble are both happening on Thanksgiving Day. The Turkey Gobble features a one-mile fun run, 5K or 8K run or walk. For the Turkey Trot, they offer a 5K or one-mile Abe’s Gobbler.
Also happening on Thanksgiving Day is the 2021 Coffee Pot Turkey Trot at St. Petersburg’s Coffee Pot Bayou. It is a family-friendly 5K, and costumes are encouraged.
December Races
This is when things really kick off.
The first race is the L.O.U.D. Reindeer Race at Gadsden Park Dec. 4. There are two options: 5K or one-mile fun run, depending on ability. The fun run is great for families with younger kids.
For those who want to run and support a great cause, check out the Tampa Ugly Sweater Run 5K Dec. 5. Proceeds benefit Finn’s Fighters, which helps families dealing with pediatric cancer. Of course, it is an opportunity to rock an ugly Christmas sweater.
Get festive with the 39th annual Jingle Bell Run in St. Petersburg Dec. 8. This one has a super fun reputation — bands on the course, glow zones, Christmas lights and more. Proceeds benefit the Boley Centers, which help families and individuals with mental disabilities.
There are a couple events Dec. 11, including the Run Tampa Tinsel 5K and one-mile fun run at Al Lopez Field. This is a must for recreational and serious runners. There are awards for almost every age group.
Ready to jingle? Also Dec. 11 is the 2021 Jingle Bell Run at George M. Steinbrenner Field. It is family-friendly with a costume contest, a kid zone and age-group awards. Proceeds benefit the Arthritis Foundation.
It is never too hot for hot chocolate, so why not enjoy it? Check out the Hot Chocolate 5K/15K Dec. 18. This is a nationwide race that alternates cities, and 2021 is Tampa. It is a USATF-certified course that is family-friendly and does not skimp on the chocolate.
Finally, get a group together Dec. 18h for the Fred Howard Park 5K, 10K & Relay in Tarpon Springs. The relay would be fun to do with friends, featuring cool Christmas finisher medals and the 5K is tree…er, three laps around the track.
Article written by Jen Clark
