philly holiday runs

Just because it’s the holiday season doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to races or neglect your new PR. Want to track the running events near you? Get on the eseo sports app, if you’re not already!

Runners are remarkable for improving their stamina and staying in shape through the holiday season. If this sounds like you or someone you’re aspiring to be, join a holiday run to keep your head clear and your body ready for anything!

Keep reading to choose from these fun holiday runs and races in Philadelphia.

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Philadelphia Rocky Run

Race like a champion in the Rocky Run! On November 12, 2022, meet outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art for either a 5k or 10-mile (or both!) race. Register online ahead of time before spots fill up.

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The Loop Race

Run along Philly’s Schuylkill River in this traditional 8.4-mile Loop Race. Take in the winter sights of classic Philly landmarks like the East Falls Bridge, Rocky Statue, and more. Donations will be given to Fairmount Park and the Belmont Plateau Cross Country Course. Sign up before you miss your chance!

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Homeless for the Holidays 5k Run

The Philadelphia Homeless for the Holidays 5k, hosted by the Pennies From Kevan Foundation, happens every year. Money goes toward feeding and supporting houseless individuals in Philly and Los Angeles. Dates and times for 2022 are still to be announced soon, so sign up for their email.

Elf N’ Cocoa 8k and 5k

Just a quick drive out of Philly is the Elf N’ Cocoa Run! Races include an 8k, 5k, and 1-mile fun run for anyone who wants a professionally-timed race on a paved course. Enjoy a fresh cup of hot cocoa after the race. Funds will be donated to the Headstrong Foundation which helps families find comfort through cancer treatment.

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Frosty Looper 8-Hour Challenge

Meet the self-proclaimed “shorter, cooler sibling to the Loopy Looper”—the Frosty Looper. This is an 8-hour race around the Cooper River Park loop in Pennsauken, NJ. It starts at 7:30 am on December 18, 2022, and ends around 3:30 pm. Complete as many loops as you can and enjoy the winter day.

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Reindeer Romp

Run the popular Reindeer Romp on December 10, 2022, in Havertown, PA. There’s a 5k race or a 1-mile walk. Winners have a chance to receive cash prizes and souvenir mugs. All registration money will be donated to the American Cancer Society. 

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Swarthmore Reindeer Dash

Race this professionally-timed, 1-mile sprint in the Swarthmore Reindeer Dash on December 3, 2022. Wear your favorite festive attire because there will be caroling, horse and carriage rides, and holiday performances after the race! 

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The Holiday Light Run

Join the Holiday Light Run in Pitman, NJ on December 15, 2022. Run (or walk) just over 3 miles through the neighborhoods decked out with impressive holiday decorations. Donations go to the Kids’ Caring Foundation as well as Acenda Health.

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Dashin’ Thru the Lights

Get ready for December with the annual Dashin’ Thru the Lights run in Yardley, PA on November 18, 2022. Race options include a 2-mile run or a 2-mile family walk. This is a night run where participants get to enjoy beautiful light displays, community hangouts, and post-race refreshments. 

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Parvin Winter Run & Plunge

Run a 5k then take a polar plunge at the Parvin Winter Run & Plunge in Pittsgrove, NJ. The event takes place on December 17, 2022. Hot cocoa and warm, cozy blankets are available after the race and plunge event! Proceeds will be donated to local community volunteer organizations. 

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Radnor Memorial Library Elves for the Shelves 5k

On December 3, 2022, Wayne and Philly locals come together for the Radnor Memorial Library 5k and Fun Run. This race raises money to support the library and its programs. Kids can run the fun run and adults can run the professionally-timed 5k run for a winning prize!

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Peddler’s Village Holiday Hustle

December 1, 2022 marks the third year of this 1-mile and 2-mile Christmas jog along Peddler’s Village (New Hope, PA). Join hundreds of locals for a night of running and holiday cheer. All donations will be given to the Bucks County Opportunity Council, an organization relieving poverty in the area. 

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The Santa Hustle: Atlanta City

Head to Atlantic City, NJ (about 1.5 hours from Philly) to join the Santa Hustle on December 11, 2022. The Santa Hustle is a 5k and half marathon race where all participants dress up in Santa Claus attire and enjoy a Christmas-themed race. 

The Santa Hustle event attracts large crowds and runners from all over the U.S. Volunteer elves cheer at the sidelines and offer Christmas cookies to runners to refuel. It’s the ultimate holiday race for the whole family.

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Run With Jack New Year's 5k

This Run With Jack charity race on New Year's Day takes place in Bryn Mawr, PA. All proceeds go to help fund the Arthrogryposis Support Group, supporting those with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (AMC).

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Organize Your Own Holiday Run in Philly

No matter what part of Philadelphia you’re in, set up a fun holiday run through the eseo app (every sport for everyone)! Find fellow runners, set up meetups, and get involved with the local running community any time of the year. Download the app today to check it out.