Calling all runners! Fort Wayne and the surrounding area are home to a plethora of running events, even during the colder months. Fort4Fitness may have put us on the map as a running destination, especially with the addition of a full marathon this year, but the smaller events have a personality of their own, whether it’s the picturesque course or the theme of the race. If you’re planning to visit Fort Wayne over the holidays, be sure to check out the following races.

November 12 at 8:00 a.m.

8th Annual Veterans Marathon, Half-Marathon, and 5K

Columbia City

Cost: $80 marathon, $70 half marathon, $30 5K

Only 20 miles west of Fort Wayne, this event is a sanctioned USATF marathon in honor of American Veterans.

More information: http://bit.ly/2fKWxpw

November 12 at 10:00 a.m.

Fort Wayne’s Veterans Day 5K

7000 N. River Rd, Fort Wayne

Cost: $25

This race honoring our veterans takes place on the Rivergreenway, beginning near Kreager Park.

More information: http://bit.ly/2fjryA8

Turkey Trot Turkey Trot 2
November 19 at 10:00 a.m.

21st Annual Fort Wayne Running Club Turkey Trot 5K

Fox Island County Park, Yohne Road, Fort Wayne

Cost: $17 pre-registration, $20 day of race

Fox Island is one of the most picturesque areas in our region. This race features a 15,000-centimeter race for Turkey Toddlers (10 and under) at 9:45 and a 5K at 10:00am.

More information: http://bit.ly/2euZ0CE

November 19 at 6:00 p.m.

Fantasy of Lights 5K

Franke Park, Fort Wayne

SOLD OUT

While this race is sold out for the inaugural year, you will want to add this to your calendar for next year. This race allows runners to race next to the larger than life light displays at the Fantasy of Lights. The course will be illuminated by over 85 lighted structures that will be lit for the first time this year for this event.

November 24 at 8:30 a.m.

Galloping Gobbler Thanksgiving, 4 miles

Hutzell Athletic Center, University of Saint Francis

Cost: $25

This race has grown tremendously over the years and now boasts over 2,000 participants. Winding through the historic Lindenwood Cemetary, the race will help you make room for all of that delicious Thanksgiving food. 

More information: http://bit.ly/1xRnu9W

December 10 at  8:30 a.m.

Gingerbread Pursuit 4 Miler

Downtown Fort Wayne

Cost: $22

Race through the streets of Downtown Fort Wayne, starting near the Cinema Center and ending near the Allen County Courthouse. Participants will be treated to gingerbread refreshments and awards in the Courthouse rotunda. Many participants dress in holiday costumes to add a little more fun to the event.

More information: http://bit.ly/1wWZJin

December 15 at 6:30 p.m.

4th Annual Ugly Sweater Run

Downtown Fort Wayne

Cost: Two donated food items

Participants are encouraged to wear ugly sweaters and join in the contest after the 3-mile fun run at JK O'Donnells.

More information: http://bit.ly/2euYLY0

December 17 at 8:00 a.m.

The Huff 50K Trail Run & Relay

Chain O’ Lakes State Park, Albion

Cost: $95 Individual 50K, $192 3-person relay

This race is not for the wussies. It is one of the country’s largest ultramarathons, and it also includes a 3-person 50K relay and a one-loop run (10.8 miles). It is a trail course, easy enough for beginners, but technical enough for seasoned trail runners. Enjoy the warm soup and prizes at the end.

More information: http://bit.ly/2f1oAQ5

January 1 at 2:17 p.m.

Rotary New Year’s Day 5K

Huntington University, 2303 College Avenue, Huntington

Cost: $20

2nd Annual Rotary 5K to benefit Rotary scholarships. The race will wind through the campus.

More information: http://bit.ly/2fm53IY