It’s officially the holiday season, which means it’s time to sign up for the D.C. region’s colder menu of races and fun runs.
Many of December’s races follow the theme of the holiday season, complete with festive costume contests and a last-chance run on New Year’s Eve to end the year on solid footing. Most of this month’s choices offer 5K (3.1) or 10K (6.2) distances—but plan to bundle up. Temperatures are starting to dip below freezing and DCist recommends dressing in warm layers. I, personally, also suggest warming up with hot chocolate afterwards.
Run to support local charities. Run to shake out stress. Run to make more room for sugar cookies.
Vienna, Virginia: Vienna 5k, 10k, & Kids 1-Miler
Start out your December races on the Washington & Old Dominion Trail. You can choose from either a 5K or 10K course, and children 14 or younger can participate in a faster one-mile race. Prepare to show up around 45 minutes early if you plan to register on race day.
The cheapest registration is $30, and the event’s proceeds support Operation Turbo, a nonprofit that sends “Boxes of Home” care packages to United States military service members.
Saturday, December 2nd // 5K and 15K // $30 – $45 // Learn more here
Washington, D.C.: Jingle All The Way 5K And 15K
Costumes aren’t just for Turkey Trots. Pacers’ annual Jingle All the Way race couples as an optional holiday-themed costume contest, and promises high levels of holiday cheer. Whether or not you choose to come in festive garb, you can choose either the 5K or 15K option.
Compared to similar races in the area, the entry fee is a little higher, but the swag bags are loaded: Expect to walk away from the race with your finisher medal, a pom beanie, and pics from their Instagram-ready photo booth.
Saturday, December 9th // 5K and 15K // $48 – $55 // Learn more here
Fairfax, Virginia: Frosty 5K
Shake out your mid-December holiday stress by running 3.1 miles through Fairfax. The Frosty 5K benefits Robinson Secondary School Track & Field Teams, and on-site medical and first aid will be provided by the Fair Oaks Volunteer Fire Department.
In addition to the 5K, there is a 1K fun run and a “Free Tot Trot” for the youngest attendees. Participants will also receive free high-resolution race photos.
Sunday, December 16 // 1K and 5K // $20 – $40 // Learn more here
Carderock, Maryland:Gar Williams Half Marathon
It’s (according to organizers) the cheapest half marathon in America—and it rocks. The D.C. Road Runners is putting on their annual Gar Williams Half Marathon (13.1 miles) along the C&O Canal Towpath just outside of town. It’s a fast, flat, and cold out-and-back race that starts and ends at Carderock Recreation Center.
Despite its ridiculously low price, there is chip timing, and an online feature that allows your friends to track you through the race, even if they don’t brave the cold to come cheer you on in person.
Sunday, December 16th // 13.1 miles // $0 – $10 // Learn more here
Potomac, Maryland: Running Out of Time 5k & 10k
Close out the year by running in one of D.C.’s closest natural oases: Great Falls Park. The 5K and 15K courses line the Potomac river, and if you can’t make it in person, there is also a “virtual run” option. Participants benefit Dare2Tri, an nonprofit organization that supports paratriathlon athletes living with physical disabilities and visual impairments.
Please note that the registration costs do not include park entry fees.
Monday, December 31th // 5K and 15K // $25 – $40 // Learn more here
