The cooler weather doesn’t slow down the 5k running season. Especially with holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up, there are special events every weekend. Everyone of all ages can join in on the fun for a day of physical activity. From Hoboken to Montclair, read on for the 5k runs + turkey trots happening in the fall and winter seasons in North Jersey.
Annual Hoboken Turkey Trot | Pier A Park, Hoboken
November 18th | 9AM
Families, friends, children, and local residents are invited to join this pre-Thanksgiving event, which has been going on since 2014. The course is along the Hoboken waterfront. Race options include the 5K run priced at $25 and the 1 Mile Fun Run priced at $10. Food and drinks will be given at the end of the course.
5K Stampede Through Clifton | 900 Clifton Avenue, Clifton
November 19th | 8:30AM
This classic event is back for its 25th year. All ages are welcome to join, and there will be different divisions for age groups 10 to 85, with awards for first place. Music and a raffle will be held after the race. A $25 entrance fee includes a race t-shirt.
Read More: Public Water Fountains + Bathrooms for Runners in Hoboken + Jersey City
The Racefaster Thanksgiving Day Run | Glen Rock
November 23rd | 9AM
Taking place along the different streets of Glen Rock, this Thanksgiving run welcomes both adults and children to participate. The 5K run portion of the event will begin at 9AM. Then, at 9:45AM, the Kids Fun Run will begin on a course that is approximately a half-mile.
Jersey City Turkey Day 5K + 1 Mile Fun Run | 20 Hudson Street, Jersey City
November 23rd | 10AM
On Thanksgiving Day, runners and walkers alike will either walk or run along the Jersey City waterfront. The fee is $25 for the Turkey Trot 5K and $10 for the 1 Mile Fun Run. Following the race, there will be professional photos taken, music, hot chocolate, food, and more.
Turkey Trot 5K + 1-Mile Fun Run | 930 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Bayonne
November 23rd | 10AM
On the morning of Thanksgiving, runners will get a burst of energy by participating in Bayonne’s version of the Turkey Trot. Runners will receive a finisher’s shirt for their participation. Giveaways from vendors, music, food, water, and other activities will be a part of the event’s lineup.
Woodbridge Turkey Trot 5K | Port Reading Avenue, Sewaren
November 25th | 10AM
Back for its 3rd year in a row, Woodbridge’s Turkey trot event will be taking place post-Thanksgiving. Pre-registered runners will have the chance to receive a t-shirt. The course will have water stops along the way. Costumes are welcome but not required. Awards will be given to the top three overall female and male runners from different age group categories.
Jingle Bell Dash 5K | 651 Kapkowski Road, Elizabeth
December 3rd | 8:30AM
To benefit Children’s Specialized Hospital, all proceeds made from the race will go directly to that cause. It will be a USATF-certified run taking place on the grounds of the Jersey Gardens Mall. Prizes will be given to the top three finishers in each category. Be sure to dress up as there will be an award given for the “Best Team Costume.” A complimentary breakfast will be given to the participants.
Cranford Santa Donut Run | 1033 Springfield Avenue, Cranford
December 9th | 10:15AM
Runners can kick off the holiday season with this Santa-inspired run. In years past, participants have been seen dressing up like Santa and running or walking to reach the finish line of the course. Event organizers will be giving fun holiday gear upon registration. A medal will be given to those who cross the finish line and are welcome to stay and enjoy donuts.
2023 5K Doughnut Run | 16 Label Street, Montclair
December 10th | 8AM
This year the run will be celebrating its 10th anniversary. Hosted by Montclair Bread Company, all ages are welcome to join as there will be a Doughnut Dash for kids and a 5k run for adults. If unable to make it in person, a virtual option for the run will be available. Once the race is over, a commemorative medal and treats will be given at the finish line. There is also a chance to win a $100 gift card to Montclair Bread Company.
Holiday Hustle 5K | 1133 East Ridgewood, Ridgewood
December 10th | 8AM
As an early holiday celebration, the Holiday Hustle 5K will be celebrating its first-year run. Hosted by Fleet Feet Northern NJ and Alpha Fit Club Glen Rock, the course will be flat and fast. Participants will make their way through Saddle River Park.
See More: A Guide to Running Clubs in Essex County
All Schools Special Needs 5K Run + Walk | 1 Ozzie Nelson Drive, Ridgefield Park
December 10th | 8AM
This race will be held to benefit All School Special Needs Inc., a Ridgefield Park-based non-profit organization. Check-in for the race will begin at 8AM and proceed to start at 9:30AM. A long-sleeved dri-fit tech shirt will be given to use for the race while supplies last. Running or walking can be done to complete the race.
Jingle Bell 5K + 1-Mile Fun Run | 100 Sinatra Drive South, Hoboken
December 16th | 9AM
Participants will be able to run along the Hoboken waterfront. Each participant will be given timed results and there will also be age group awards. There will be complete Santa suits given. Music, hot chocolate, professional photos, and mini-subs will be available on-site.
