Gear and Technology

Gifts for the holiday 5K enthusiast

November 26, 2021 | 4 min. read By Brooks Staff

Does the runner in your life take holly jolly to the max? Or maybe you’re that runner. Either way, we’ve got you covered.

Tis the season

Can’t wait to don a full-bodied turkey costume or deck your new Ghost 14s with boughs of holly, twinkly lights, or jingly bells? Do you sign up early for the local Turkey Trot or Jingle Bell 5K? Do you recruit friends and family for these races and encourage (pressure) them to dress up or add festive decorations to their gear? If you check all these boxes, you might be a Holiday 5K Enthusiast.

Add a race to your holiday to-do list

Seasoned holiday runners may already have their races planned this year, but if you’re new to running holiday events, we have some activities for you.

Start your holiday running season off on the right drumstick with a turkey trot. The oldest organized foot race in America began in New York in 1896. Turkey trots are also sometimes known as Thanksgiving 5Ks, but each event has its own way of doing things. Some trots include shorter or longer distances, different age groups, relays, and more. And yes, turkey (and other character) costumes are encouraged.

Close up Trot happy shoe on a thanksgiving platter

Additional popular holiday-themed races that happen at multiple locations around the U.S. include the Jingle Bell 5K, the 12Ks of Christmas, and more. Participants in these races get decked out in sparkly red and green attire, Santa hats, elf ears, and reindeer headbands, among other seasonal accoutrements.

Use this handy race finder to add a holiday run to your festive season.

Need some extra guidance for racing this season? Check out one of our race training plans created by Brooks Beasts coach Danny Mackey.

Get the gear

Want to dress the part for your upcoming holiday races? This year, we're jingling all the bells for the super springy Run Merry Levitate 5. Our best energy return in our line may also be the most joyous this holiday season.

Want more festive for your fit? Check out the Run Merry collection:

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Running is a gift. Shop local or shop online.

Consider signing up for a holiday race this year. Running one will give you a sense of pride, whether you’re in it to make fun memories with friends and family or prep yourself for a holiday feast. It’s good for you, no matter your motivation.

Run happy this holiday season.

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