It’s no secret that winter is the most challenging time of year to get outside and exercise. Even if it looks like a marshmallow world ready for play, preparing for the holidays and pondering New Year’s resolutions can be a stressful ordeal. Why not get a head start on those resolutions and start the new year strong? These holiday 5Ks give you the opportunity to jingle bell rock your way to the finish line.
Frosty 5K and Reindeer Run
December 9, 9 a.m.
Get the family together for a frigid run in Stafford County. Back for its seventh year, this race will feature a 5K and 1-mile fun run. Don’t forget to wear your favorite holiday-themed costume. Race proceeds will benefit Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation, a Fredericksburg-based nonprofit that offers CPR and Automated External Defibrillator training throughout the region. The top three male and female racers will receive a cash prize. 1600 Mine Rd., Stafford, $35 for 5K by December 7, $40 for 5K after December 7, $22 for fun run by December 7, $25 for fun run after December 7
Jingle Bell Rock & Run
December 9, 9 a.m.
This race features three different distances: 10K, 5K race, and the 1-mile Jammie Jingle Fun Run/Walk. The registration fee includes a custom race T-shirt (optional for fun run) and a complimentary post-race photo. Proceeds will go to Life with Cancer, a center operated by Inova. After the race, more than $5,000 in prizes will be awarded. Christian Fellowship Church: 44505 Atwater Dr., Ashburn, $55 for 10K, $50 for 5K, $15 for Jammie Jingle Fun Run, $10 for T-shirt for fun run
Morais Vineyards 2K & 5K
December 9, 12:30 p.m.
Run to support The Sweet Julia Grace Foundation, a Bristow-based nonprofit that provides daily assistance to children living with special needs, and those in medical crisis. Hosted by Morais Vineyards and Winery, runners can choose from a 2K or 5K race, and the registration fee includes an event T-shirt (while supplies last), and a finisher’s medal. Awards will be given to the top three male and female overall runners. 11409 Marsh Rd., Bealeton, $35 for 2K with online registration, $40 for 2K the day of the race, $40 for 5K with online registration, $45 for 5K the day of the race
Roosevelt Island DC Park Run
December 23, 9 a.m.
Enjoy this laid-back weekly running event on Roosevelt Island. The event course measures 5K, and attendees are welcome to run, walk, or jog at their own pace. Organizers recommend arriving via public transport since there is limited public parking. Runners can grab coffee with course organizers in Rosslyn after the event. Theodore Roosevelt Island, Washington, DC, free
Christmas Eve 5K & 10K
December 24, 8 a.m.
While Santa gets his sleigh ready for the big day, take to the streets of DC for this 10K or 5K race. Proceeds will benefit the John P. Mayhugh Foundation, a nonprofit committed to helping individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injuries, and addiction. The top three male and female runners will receive awards. The registration fee includes an event T-shirt and finisher’s medal. Hains Point: Ohio Drive SW, Washington, DC, $30 for 5K before December 15, $35 for 5K after December 15, $45 for 10K before December 15, $50 for 10K after December 15
Snow Dash 5K & 10K
December 30, 9:45 a.m.
Get a head start on your New Year’s resolutions at these 5K or 10K races that benefit K-9 Caring Angels, a nonprofit in Bealeton that trains and deploys service animals to individuals in need of psychiatric support. The registration fee includes an event T-shirt and finisher’s medal. Wakefield Park: 8100 Braddock Rd., Annandale, $30 for 5K before December 15, $35 for 5K after December 15, $45 for 10K before December 15, $50 for 10K after December 15
Running Out of Time 5K & 12K
December 31, 8:45 a.m.
Before welcoming 2024, run a 5K or 12K race for We Rock Cancer, a nonprofit expanding access to health care for skin cancer patients through live musical performances. The top three male and female runners will receive awards, and registration includes a commemorative race T-shirt. Burke Lake Park: 7315 Ox Rd., Fairfax Station, $30 for 5K before December 15, $35 for 5K after December 15, $50 for 12K before December 15, $55 for 12K after December 15
Feature image by Maridav/stock.adobe.com
For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine’s Health newsletter.
