Looking to offset those holiday calories while putting effort toward a great cause? Greater Gainesville offers several 5K races this holiday season. Suitable for walkers and runners alike, all age groups are welcome to attend. Happy trails.
Great Gainesville Charity Run
The Great Gainesville Charity Run is a 5K taking place at 8 a.m. Dec. 4 in Westside Park. This race benefits a handful of local nonprofits, including the Childhood Advocacy Center, Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation, Girls on the Run and more. Sign up here.
Jingle Bell Jog
This year’s Jingle Bell Jog is a 5K at Westside Park followed by a holiday social with snacks and games. The race begins promptly at 8 a.m. on Dec. 11 and invites all to participate. Sign up here.
Season of Hope Run
Tyler’s Hope and Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases host the Season of Hope 5K and 15K, which benefits the fight against dystonia and Parkinson’s disease. Both races run through the beautiful Hawthorne Trail and begin at 9 a.m. Dec. 11. Sign up here.
Joey’s Wings Foundation 5K
Joey’s Wings 5K is a charity run/walk that benefits the research and treatment options for the families and children and young adults affected by kidney cancer. This race will be held at 8:30 a.m. Nov. 21 at Westside Park. For information about Joey and the Foundation and to sign up, click here.
The Cupcake Race
Needing a bit of motivation to get through the race? This year’s Cupcake Race will be followed by — that’s right — a cupcake provided by the always delicious Gigi’s Cupcakes.
Racers can take their pick between a 5K, 10K, 15K and a half marathon. This race will take place on the scenic Hawthorne Trail on Nov. 21, and each race begins at intervals between 8 and 8:30 a.m. Sign up here.
By Madison Rae