Walking and Running in a Winter Wonderland – Festive Runs
Over the next few weeks there are so many different Christmas events taking place. But some of the most inspiring are the ones that get you off the couch and moving. Many are also raising money for good causes, so there is no excuse. Below are some of our favourite Christmas Runs but check out Inspireme.ie for a full listing.
Kilkenny
On Sunday 3rd, the 8th annual Kilkenny Charity Santa Run will be taking off at 11am. There are two distances to choose from – 2k or if you are feeling energetic the longer 5k route is for you. Everyone is welcome, but remember to bring your own Santa hat or costume. There will be prizes for the best costume and even for the fastest dog. And you will be raising funds for the local St Vincent de Paul Society and Fit4Life Friends
Dublin
Or for those in Dublin there is festive fun in the Phoenix Park at the annual Aware Christmas Run on Saturday 9th. This features both a 5km and 10km run, with lots of Santa hats, elf costumes and Christmas jumpers on display. And with spot prizes for the most festive outfits, this could be your chance to sparkle! Raising money for Aware, the charity which provides free services for those with depression or bipolar disorder and their families, this is a fantastic day out. With chip timing, you could also try for a personal best, and then feel smug all Christmas long!
Kerry
On Sunday 10th December the action moves to Kerry, with the Tralee 5km Santa Fun Run. This event is in aid of the Cashel Children’s Ward in KUH and it celebrates its 5th anniversary this year. This year they hope to raise enough money to buy chair-beds so that parents can stay overnight with their sick children. It promises to be a real family friendly affair, with runners of all ages and abilities welcome. And pets go free – so bring Rudolph if you must.
Meath
On Saturday 16th why not head to Navan for the bi-annual 121 Fitness Charity Run and Walk. It is open to everyone and race entry is only €5. All funds raised will go to the Colm Eogan Fund. All are welcome to take part, and this 6km route will give a real sense of achievement to all who cross the finish line.
Mayo
On Saturday 23rd as others are dashing around the shops, looking for last-minute presents, you could be dashing around Clare Lake for the Claremorris Park Run, Santa Shuffle and Elf Walk. Everyone is welcome, in their finest Christmas outfits. There will be lots of surprises along the route, including a potential sighting of the main man. And to make sure that you are embracing all things festive, there will be mince pies and treats for all once you cross the finish line.
Wicklow
On St Stephen’s Day the annual Streets of Wicklow 5km timed race will be taking place – the perfect start to the post-Christmas resolution to stay away from the tin of Roses. This is always a popular family event with a perpetual trophy for the fastest family across the line (2 adults and 2 children). There are also prizes for anyone who can break the course record, so competitive types will be in their element! And for the smaller children there is a fun 1 mile run, with cookie, juice and medals at the end to celebrate. The Inbhear Dee Athletics Club have thought of everything so be sure to join them.
Westmeath
Last but not least is the turn of Kilbeggan, also on St Stephens Day for the annual Kilbeggan 6km Fun run & walk. This race is getting more popular by the year and runners, joggers and walkers of all abilities are welcome. Registration is free but participants are asked to make a donation to Our Ladies Children’s Hospital Crumlin.
Festive Runs on InspireMe.ie
This is just a selection of the many runs and walks which will be taking place over the festive season. There is no excuse not to don the red hat and jingle all the way around your nearest fun run. For more runs and other fantastic festive events be sure to check out www.inspireme.ie.
Please note all events were correct at time of publication. Please check with the organisers before setting out on your journey.