With the dropping of degrees and the cool wind from the breeze, comes the rising of the heat from another busy season of Fall runs in Vancouver. The season has tons of big events left to offer, like the Fall Classic 5km, 10km, and Half and the Vancouver Historic Half.

But if you’re looking for a run that can exercise more than just your legs, lungs, and inner competitor, then you should consider one of the many costume or themed runs being put on this Fall. There are runs that have fun and whacky themes all year round, but organizers seem to really hit their stride at this time of year. Check out one (or more) of the 5 great options listed below!

1. Rock 'n' Roll Oasis Half and 10km - Downtown Vancouver, October 22-23

10km, Half Marathon

Though not an official costumed race, the Rock ‘n’ Roll title lends itself very well to 80’s hair band wigs and tight leather that has no business anywhere near a road run. Racers are treated to spectacular costumes featuring some of the greatest names in rock and roll history, like Elvis, the Beatles, and Slash, to name a few.

2. Hallow's Eve Trail Race - Lynn Creek (North Shore), October 29th

10km, Half Marathon, Marathon

Put on by the frightening folks at Mountain Madness, this run is not for those afraid of hills. The race kicks off right at the base of Lynn Creek and tackles some truly terrifying hills on Vancouver’s North Shore. Racers are encouraged to complete the race in their Halloween costume, with prizes awarded for both the best and the worst costumes of the day.

3. Moustache Miller - Stanley Park, November 21st

5km

Taking place during the heart of Movember, this run is a proud supporter of the Movember campaign to raise funds and awareness for men’s health issues, including prostate and testicular cancer, and mental health initiatives. Runners are invited to take their ‘staches on a 5km morning tour of Stanley park and have some fun while raising some money for the cause.

4. Santa Shuffle - Abbotsford and Vancouver, December 3rd

5km

Get into the holiday season with a fun run to support The Salvation Army. Runners are rewarded for how much they raise with incremental prizes, from a shirt to a $100 gift card to the Running Room. What is more fun at this festive time of year than to run as the jolly ol’ fella himself, Old Saint Nick*? But whatever costume you go with, just be sure to bundle up!

*Elf and reindeer costumes also encouraged.

5. Elf Run - Stanley Park, December 18th

1km, 5km, 10km

Keep the spirit of the season alive with another festive holiday run. An event that is dog-friendly, this run includes an elf toque and awards prizes for the fastest, the best elf costume, and even the best dog elf costume! There are even hot chocolate stations along the way - what more could you want?

Notable Mention!

Phantom Run Trail Race - Seymour River (North Shore), November 19th

12km, 19km, 24km

Put on by the same team that brought you Hallow’s Eve Trail race, this long distance trail run is for serious trail runners only. This run is a big contributor to the Food Bank, and gladly accepts canned donations on race day. And with food in the mind, the race also features Tim’s donuts and Waves coffee, as well as hot minestrone soup at the finish.

--

Josh Britton, BKin

Professional Training Coach

Sales Manager

Innovative Fitness Kitsilano

jbritton@innovativefitness.com

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