Sometimes running can be so...boring. If you enjoy a good run but are tired of taking a few laps around your block, consider joining a local race. Community 5K runs can be a great way to spend a summer afternoon without sticking to your same old routine. Check out some fun options below and then get moving. Just don't forget the sunscreen!
You guessed it: This 5K run is held in the evening, rather than during a sweltering summer afternoon. Taking place in a quiet Wynnewood neighborhood, the 5K stretches over three circuits of what is called the "Ardmore Loop." Afterward, Hykel's Bar and Grill hosts a party and runners get a complimentary beverage with their bib.
Thursday, July 9
7:30 p.m. | $22 in advance, $25 day-of
South Ardmore Park
1498 S. Sussex Road, Wynnewood, Pa.
The object of this race is to complete the course before Beethoven’s famous 5th Symphony finishes, which is about 32 minutes. "Beethoven" himself will be running the course, too. It's all because the run's proceeds benefit the
Kennett Symphony of Chester County. Walk or run, it's up to you.
Thursday, July 16
6:30 p.m. | $30 by July 13, $35 thereafter and day-of
Radley Run Country Club
1100 Country Club Road, West Chester, Pa.
This 5K walk/run is on a course lined with super soakers and cooling hoses, all finished off with a blast from a fire truck. Event proceeds benefit West Kensington Ministries and the Abington Fire Company. A free kids 300-meter dash is included; participants do not need to pre-register for that.
Saturday, July 18
8:30 a.m. | $25 in advance, $30 day-of
Abington Presbyterian Church
1082 Old York Road, Abington, Pa.
(215) 512-4946
Much like the popular Color Run, the Graffiti Run utilizes volunteers to toss brightly colored powder at runners at intervals along the 5K route. White shirts are mandatory (to make you extra bright), but all-white outfits are encouraged. It all ends with a dance party with even more color throws, to distract you from all that running.Sunday, July 19
9 a.m. | $45 until July 3, $50 thereafter, $55 day-of
(Children are $15 in advance, $20 day-of)
Camden Waterfront
Cooper Street and Delaware Avenue
Get ready to climb over walls, get down in the mud, jump over hurdles and hoist weights in this obstacle race. You can take on this course in either 3 or 6 miles (or, the equivalent to a 5K or 10K). Kids can take part in a 1-mile race or a 100-meter dash, too.
Sunday, July 26
7 a.m. | $85 (3 miles) and $95 (6 miles) through July 6, prices vary thereafter
Warminster Park
Hatboro Road and West Bristol Road, Warminster, Pa.
