Whether you’re a serious runner, or just want to have some fun with a festive walk, there are so many Thanksgiving Turkey Trots and and Festive Christmas and Holiday Races and Walks around Columbus.
Gather your friends, some festive gear and lace up your running or walking shoes! Most of these holiday races have great swag bags, and are for great causes, so pick your favorite or do a couple! You won’t have to wait until the New Year to start on a fitness resolution!
So far many races will be held virtually in 2020, but they can still be a lot of fun if you run with your crew!
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Turkey Trots and Holiday Races around Columbus in November 2020
Virtual Chase Columbus Turkey Trot
WHEN: November 1st through December 1st
WHERE: Your choice! The Chase Turkey Trot offers you the choice to complete your own distance, on your own time. Go the 5-mile, 2-mile, or half-mile using our suggested routes, or make your own. This year, you can enroll in our fitness app to compete for cool prizes!
COST: $39 for the 5 miler and 5k, and $5 for the virtual tot trot
GOODIE BAG: Each participant will receive a great looking (long sleeve) dry-fit, three-quarter zip shirt, one of a kind finisher’s medal. Just be sure to download the fitness app upon completion of registration.
KIDS RUN: Virtual Tot Trot is open to ages 13 and under. Registration is $5.
BENEFITS: The Chase Columbus Turkey Trot is proud to support Easterseals of Central and Southeast Ohio and their Early Intervention program which provides hands-on, comprehensive support to help children reach their full potential–regardless of challenges, needs or disabilities.
Virtual Tiger Turkey Trot 5k & Kids Fun Run
WHEN: Saturday, November 21 – Mon November 30, 2020
WHERE: Virtual only for 2020. Run on your own time and preferred location during the race dates. Submit your times to the “Live Results Leaderboard. It’s not mandatory to track or submit your time. Interactive Race Day Experience with RaceJoy will be available.
COST: $35. Race benefits the Pickerington Central Tiger Lacrosse Booster Club.
GOODIE BAG: T-shirts and medals. Registrations placed BEFORE November 8, 2020 will receive a shirt! Additional shirts will be available for purchase for $20.00/shirt.
Virtual Allstate Hot Chocolate 15k/5k
WHEN: Sunday, November 22, 2020 or preferred date/time
WHERE: Run/walk at your preferred location. Treadmill, park, road, trail, etc. – it’s up to you!
VIRTUAL: In order to download a finisher’s certificate, we ask that you upload your results by January 1st, 2021.
COST: $40 for the virtual 5K or 15K
GOODIE BAG: They will ship your race packet and goodie bag with comfy charcoal grey full zip jacket with a removable hood, a keepsake 15K or 5K medal, personalized bib, hot chocolate packets, chocolate squares, and some awesome sponsor goodies.
Virtual Powell Turkey Trot 4 miler and Kids’ Fun Run
WHEN: Thursday, November 26 – Sunday, November 29, 2020
WHERE: Virtual! Complete the run at your leisure during Thanksgiving weekend wherever you choose
COST: $38-$45; Kids Fun Run is $13
GOODIE BAG: Super soft finishers shirt, plus beanie hat or custom socks
KIDS RUN: Wobble ‘Till You Gobble Virtual Kids 1/4 mile fun run Registration is $13; swag is unknown.
Virtual Flying Feather Four Miler
WHEN: November 26-29, 2020
WHERE: Virtual. Run or walk four miles anywhere and anytime between Thanksgiving Day and Sunday, November 29
COST: Cost is $40 plus fees and includes shipping. Packets will be mailed the week of November 9. Limited to 2000 participants.
GOODIE BAG: All participants receive a Premium Hoodie, Finisher’s Medal and Race Bib. Participants over 21 also receive a Bottle of Wine for the Thanksgiving Table! Wine will be distributed during Wine Pick Up from Nov. 22-25 at Fleet Feet Sports in Lewis Center, Ohio.
TRAINING PROGRAM: Need a training program or suggestions on where to run the race? Check out the website.
KIDS RUN: Not scheduled for 2020.
Virtual New Albany Thanksforgiving 4 Miler and kids run
WHEN: Between November 26 and November 29
WHERE: Your preferred location
COST: NO OFFICIAL FEE! You can give as much or as little as you want. Our goal is to feed as many families in Central Ohio as we can – and you can help. You can help by running our race, spreading the word, and by making a donation. You decide on the donation – and how many meals you want to provide. They are also collecting canned goods to “Stuff the Bus”; details tba.
GOODIE BAG: Each Thanksforgiving 4 Miler registration/donation of $35 or more comes with an super nice participant shirt. You must pick up your shirt at one of our two New Albany-based pickup events. Pick up your shirt on Wednesday, November 25 (10a-7p) or Thursday, November 26 (8a-10a) – location TBD.
KIDS RUN: Not scheduled for 2020
Hybrid Grove City Thanksgiving Wattle
WHEN: Thursday, November 26, 2020 for in-person option. See all changes for 2020 here.
WHERE: 4665 Hoover Road Grove City, OH US 43123 OR Virtual option is available. There will be a rolling 2 hour start, separated into 10 minute intervals beginning at 8:00am and ending at 10:00am. Registrants can choose their preferred start time.
VIRTUAL: Virtual Options can be done anytime from November 25th-November 26th. Virtual 5K Runners/Walkers will be able to upload their times in a special area on the runsignup.com site for virtual participants. In the event any governing authority forces us to cancel our in-person event between now and event day due to COVID reasons, we will switch over to virtual options for both the 5K, the Rotisserie Roll Bike Ride and the Primrose Children’s Run. There will be no refunds if this occurs.
COST: $30-$40 for the 5k and the Rotisserie Roll, discounts for under 13 and over 60, and group entries
BIKE RIDE: Rotisserie Roll 12 Mile Bicycle Ride Around Grove City. Controlled Group Ride with Police Bike Support. Start to be approximately 12 minutes earlier than Wattle 5K. Finish is to be near end of Wattle so as to minimize interference with Wattle walkers.
GOODIE BAG: The In-person 5K and Rotisserie Roll participants will get long sleeve shirts, chip timing (no timing for bike ride), pumpkin pies, and finish line bottled water. Participants can opt-in on receiving a medal, but those will be put in pre-event goodie bags for the first 1500 entrants desiring one
KIDS RUN: 200 or 400 Yard Primrose Children’s Run For the Pantry are in-person only. Children will chase mascots; Turkeys and Pilgrims to the finish line. 8:00am Start Time: $15.00; Age 10& Under: All Children chase a mascot (or two), and receive a bib, t-shirt, a goodie bag and a medal. 100% of Primrose Children’s Run Proceeds will benefit the Grove City Food Pantry.
ADAPTIVE EVENT: Not scheduled for 2020, but they want to accommodate those with developmental or physical disabilities. Contact race organizers to see what accommodations would be helpful to allow ALL to participate.
BENEFITS: The Grove City Food Pantry is the benefitting charity. Food and money will be collected to help those in need in the community.
The Delaware Turkey Trot 5K & Kid’s Fun Run
WHEN: Thursday, November 26, 2020 at 8:30 am. In-person 5K caps at 600 Participants. Also have a virtual option and Kid’s Race
WHERE: Held behind Office Max/Kohl’s, in Delaware
COST: $35-$40, depending on date of registration. 100% of the proceeds are donated to the Autism Society Central Ohio
RACE FORMAT: Choose whether to run in-person or virtual. You will choose your arrival time, and can pick the 5k course or 2 mile on your registration. If you choose virtual, you can run/walk at the time and location of your choosing.
GOODIE BAG: Long-sleeved t-shirt, socks, and finisher medal. If you are choosing the virtual option and want your swag bag shipped, it will cost an additional $10. No race day pickup. Packet Pick-up is November 23-25.
KIDS RUN: Little Gobbler races will be each evening of packet pickup. So Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, November 23-25 at 5:30pm, families can come pick up their packets, and then the kids can head to our start line, which is located at our packet pickup location (New Beginnings Church). There is a trail that parallels our parking lot, and volunteers will be there to assist you. It will be a short race for kids ages 8 and under. Each child will receive a draw string bag, medal, and a t-shirt. The earlier you register, the more likely you are to receive your shirt in your preferred size. There will be 2 Little Gobbler Races, one for ages 4 and under, and one for 5-8. Registration is $15.
Honda Federal Credit Union Pumpkin Dash 5k
WHEN: Thursday, November 26, 2020 at your selected start time between 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Runners will be spread out among selected times for safety.
WHERE: 800 Amrine Mill Rd. Marysville, OH US 43040. The start and finish will take place at Marysville High School. Participants will run along the Jim Simmons trail. Virtual is also available to complete at your preferred location.
VIRTUAL OPTION: Interactive Race Day Experience with RaceJoy with GPS tracking allow you to enter your race-assigned bib number to automatically submit your finish data for real-time scored results.
COST: $35. Registration ends November 9, 2020
GOODIE BAG: 5k participants receive Long Sleeve T-Shirt, Neck Gaiter, and Beanie Cap. Race packet must be picked up at the Pre-Race Packet Pickup, or it can be mailed for an additional fee. No race day pickup.
Virtual Circleville Turkey Trot
WHEN: Thursday, November 26, 2020 (or your preferred date).
WHERE: Your choice; event is virtual
COST: $15; Fun 5k run/walk to raise money for Pickaway United Pantries through PICCA.
GOODIE BAG: None for 2020. The entire registration fee will go towards the food pantry
Virtual Columbus Hungry Turkey Run 5k/10k/Half
WHEN: Saturday, November 26-29, 2020
WHERE: Your choice; race is virtual
COST: $30-$60, depending on date of registration
GOODIE BAG: Premium quarter zip long sleeve race shirt, “smile” medal will be mailed to your house, plus digital runner’s bib and finisher’s certificate.
KIDS RUN: Kids division virtual 5K is $14.99-$30. Registration includes online results, commemorative kid’s size t-shirt and finisher certificate. Additional items available during registration.
Virtual Leftover Run 5K
WHEN: Friday November 27 – Sunday November 29, 2020
WHERE: Your choice; race is virtual
COST: $15 for pickup, or $25 with goodie bag shipping
GOODIE BAG: It’s leftover time! There are leftover race numbers, race shirts, and medals from events over the past few years. If you choose pickup, you’ll need to go to Columbus Running Company’s Dublin location on Black Friday (November 27) between 10a-2p to pick up your race gear. When you arrive you’ll get your choice of a race shirt in your preferred size, and a medal.
If you are picking up, you are welcome to bring any good condition clothing to be donated to Goodwill Columbus.
Christmas Themed Holiday Races around Columbus in December
Gahanna Virtual Santa Race 5K
WHEN: Saturday, December 5, 2020 at 8:30 a.m.
WHERE: Creekside Gahanna
COST: $30 – $40
GOODIE BAG: Santa Race 5K participants get a medal, holiday hat, and a long sleeve t-shirt.
VIRTUAL OPTION: Registration is closed for the in-person event, but still open for the virtual option until December 3. You can complete the virtual race any day and any place.
KIDS RUN: Cancelled for 2020
Santa Race 5K 2019 via Santa Race 5k Facebook page
Virtual Jingle Bell Run or Walk
WHEN: December 11-13, 2020
WHERE: Your choice; event is virtual
COST: $35 for virtual 5k
GOODIE BAG: exclusive Jingle Bell Run short sleeve t-shirt, unique medal, and sticker for your water bottle or laptop
KIDS RUN: Not held for 2020
Hot Chocolate & Eggnog 5k, 10k & Kids FUN Run
WHEN: Saturday, December 12, 2020, Kids Run – 10:55 am, 5k/10k – 11:05 am
WHERE: Westerville Sports Complex (Near Community Center), 325 N Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH 43082
COST: $25-$45; based on registration date
GOODIE BAG: Every participant will receive a long sleeve race shirt, custom race bib, chip timed results, finisher photos, hot chocolate, eggnog, food and more! Wear the ugliest sweater, shirt or jacket that you can find and come out and drink some hot chocolate and egg nog! They are supporting Driven Foundation’s upcoming Holiday Food Outreach so bring some canned goods (encouraged but not required)!
KIDS RUN: $5-$15, or free without a t-shirt.
(The race hasn’t been adapted for COVID, so check links for adaptations or changes closer to the event)
Virtual NC4K Reindeer Run 5K
WHEN: December 18-20, 2020
WHERE: Your choice; event is virtual
COST: $30
GOODIE BAG: Participants who register by November 11th will be guaranteed an exclusive NC4K Reindeer Run 5K t-shirt. *Please note – the 2020 t-shirt is only available in adult sizes. Race packet pickup is December 16 & 17 from 4-7 pm at NC4K Office (drive-thru style). If you live outside of Central Ohio, you will have the opportunity to have your race packet shipped for a $5 shipping fee.
KIDS RUN: No Kids Fun Run for 2020. Kids can participate in the virtual 5K for $10 and will receive a special treat (tshirts not available in kids sizes)
WHEN: December 6 – December 13, 2020
WHERE: Your choice; event is virtual
COST: $25
GOODIE BAG: A select number of keepsake knitted caps printed by Rising Moon Custom Apparel will be included in race bags for a few lucky randomly-selected registrants. Additionally, all participants will receive a pair of Christmas socks, as well as a pair of gloves with finger-tabs that allow you to text. Race bags will also include local restaurant coupons and other handouts.
You can pick up your race swag at Columbus Running Company’s Westerville location (50 N State St 43081) on Friday, December 4 (10a-8p) or Saturday, December 5 (10a-6p). You can also select to have your materials shipped directly to your door. Shipping will take place on Monday, December 7.
Westerville Lions Children’s Christmas Parade is cancelled for 2020.
Freeze Your Fanny 5k and 10k
WHEN: Saturday, December 5, 2020 at 10 a.m.
WHERE: Sharon Woods Metro Park located at 6911 Cleveland Ave, Westerville, Ohio 43081
COST: $35
GOODIE BAG: All participants will receive a colorful sweatshirt, finish line beverage mug, chip timing with post race food and drink
(The race hasn’t been adapted for COVID, so check links for adaptations or changes closer to the event)
Dublin Snowflake 5K
WHEN: Sunday, December 13, 2020 at 9 a.m.
WHERE: Dublin Community Rec Center, 5600 Post Rd, Dublin, OH US 43016
COST: $35
GOODIE BAG: All finishers receive long sleeve sweatshirts, finisher medals, chip timing and awards. Post race holiday goodies and hot chocolate await all runners at the finish line.
(The race hasn’t been adapted for COVID, so check links for adaptations or changes closer to the event)
See more races throughout the year in Central Ohio!
Friday, December 4, 2020
Saturday, December 5, 2020
Sunday, December 6, 2020
Monday, December 7, 2020
Tuesday, December 8, 2020
Wednesday, December 9, 2020
Thursday, December 10, 2020
Friday, December 11, 2020
Saturday, December 12, 2020
Sunday, December 13, 2020
Monday, December 14, 2020
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Thursday, December 17, 2020
Friday, December 18, 2020
Races not held in 2020
Groveport Gobble Gallop 5K
WHEN: Not scheduled for 2020
WHERE: Groveport Recreation Center. 5k run/walk on all paved sidewalks and trails, except for a small gravel section
COST: $25-$30 for adults, $10-$15 for kids ages 8-14. Under age 8 run free with parents, but no timing or prizes.
GOODIE BAG: Unknown
Virtual Run Santa Run 5K
WHEN: Not scheduled for 2020
WHERE: Easton Town Center, 3975 Townsfair Way, Columbus, Ohio 43219
COST: $30-$40
GOODIE BAG: Finisher Medal, Super Soft Santa race tee shirt ($25 value), Santa Hat, Bag, Beard & Gloves, Hot chocolate, Cookies, 1 Free Beer at World of Beer Post-Race
Santa Speedo Dash for Diabetes 5k/1 mile
WHEN: Not scheduled for 2020
WHERE: Genoa Park (behind COSI), 303 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215
COST: $35-$45. Speedos are encouraged, but not mandatory. Get into the fun with your festive holiday wear!
GOODIE BAG: Event registration includes swag, race timing, post-run food buffet and access to post event celebration at Strongwater
Run the Lights!
This is your unique opportunity to run the light show at the Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights! This is our 1st annual run and it’s like no other run (or walk)! Get to see all the lights in this very special experience. This is the only public run through the light show – normally only cars are permitted through it.
WHEN: tba for 2020
WHERE: Alum Creek State Park / Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights, 3311 S Old State Rd 43212, Delaware, OH 43015
OPTIONS: 1.5 or 3 miles
COST: $27-$42, limited on-site parking passes for $10, or ride the free 5 minute shuttle from Olentangy Berlin High School
GOODIE BAG: Race T-shirt (Must register by 12/11 to guarantee to recieve shirt), Free Appetizer from Texas Roadhouse, BOGO to Lazer Kraze, $5 off coupon Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights drive-thru evening experience, Cup of hot chocolate finish, Special finishers mug for the first 100 in each 5AM & 6AM 3 mile run + First 50 for 6AM 1.5 mile run
Be the LIGHT 5K 2020
WHEN: tba for 2020
WHERE: Gahanna Golf Course Clubhouse, 220 Olde Ridenour Road, Gahanna, OH US 43230
COST: $30-$45; Please collect and bring any new or gently used shoes to donate. We will be packaging lunches for the homeless. You can come early, stay after or have someone pack them for you but a portion of your registration will go towards feeding the homeless in Columbus.
GOODIE BAG: Shirt, medal, surprise ‘bling’, post-race snack.
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