I’m not much of a themed races person, per se. I like to train, get to the race and do my work, and go home. Well, with the exception of the occasional post-race celebratory brunch or lunch. But for the most part, I’m all business when it comes to racing. I don’t dress up save for the colors of the race or theme, and I’ve never worn a tutu.
With that said, some of my all-time favorite races do occur on (or in celebration of) a holiday. While I’m going to try to keep this post in line with the current season (spring), there are a couple that take place during the colder months. Some races I haven’t done yet and I plan to within the next year. Most of these aren’t technically a themed race, but close enough since I’ve never done an actual themed race before. Without further ado, here are my top five themed races.
Themed Races for Every Season
1. University Heights Memorial Day Run
The UH Memorial Day Run is one of my favorites. It’s a small race, and when I ran it I could literally walk (or do my warm-up run) to the starting line. I loved running through my small town streets that I trained on day in and day out. I haven’t run this race since I moved away from the area but it will always hold a special place in my heart.
2. Kiss Me I’m a Runner 5K/10K
I like Kiss Me I’m a Runner because a) I train athletes for this race, b) it was my first 10K — ever!, and c) some of my favorite people run this race, too. It’s a really fun post-race atmosphere and despite the weather sucking this year, everyone had a blast.
3. Run Santa Run 5K
Run Santa Run 5K is where I snagged my 5K PR in 2015. I haven’t gotten back into 5K racing since then but it made me hungry for speed. The Run Santa Run 5K is a fun, themed race, but you don’t have to dress like Santa if it’s not your thing. It’s a bigger 5K, too, which makes it a festive atmosphere.
4. Blossom Time Run*
I’ve never run the Blossom Time Run but I’ve heard great things. I’m hoping to get this race under my belt this year. It’s a 5.25 mile race on a fairly challenging course. Typically it’s very hot on Memorial Day weekend but with the way the weather has been going this year it’s anyone’s guess how things will shake out come race weekend.
5. Chagrin Falls Turkey Trot*
Another race I haven’t run but look forward to trying in the future is the Chagrin Falls Turkey Trot. It’s close to home for me and looks like a lot of fun. It would certainly break with tradition from my typical jaunt downtown but my interest is piqued!
6. Cinco de Mayo 5K*
And one for good luck! I would be remiss if I left out the inaugural Cinco de Mayo 5K that took place yesterday evening seeing as it’s Cinco de Mayo after all. A 5K and tacos? What’s not to love? I’ll be sure to add it to my race calendar in 2018.
And with that, my friends, I wish you all a lovely weekend full of food, laughter, love, and of course, running. See you back here on Monday!
Don’t forget to link up with me and the lovely ladies of Fairytales and Fitness for the Friday Five 2.0 linkup! Scroll down to add your link!
xo
TALK TO ME!
What’s one of YOUR favorite themed races?
What’s a fun thing you’re doing this weekend?