
Whether you’re a walker or runner, there are lots of 5Ks, fun runs and pet walks calling your name throughout New Jersey. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite walks and runs to inspire you to lace up and get outside.
May 11-17
Salvation Army’s Running for the Most Good Virtual 5K
Virtual
Walk or run 3.1 miles at your own pace, from any location, in support of The Salvation Army, which provides food, shelter, youth services, and emergency aid families across the state.
May 16
JCC Dash & Splash 5K & Pool Party
Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC, Bridgewater
Held in memory of Chairoj Raviwong, a beloved member of the JCC community, the evening starts with a timed 5K run or walk, and then a pool party to cool off. The night will feature a DJ, lawn and pool games, face painting, balloon animals, tie-dye, snacks and a food truck.
Community Uplift 5K Run/Walk
Omega Family Resource and Learning Center, East Orange
You will get your results texted and emailed, live, plus a free photo from the finish line at this 5K race held by the Omega Family Resource and Learning Center.
GoldenHour 5K and Pool Party
Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC, Bridgewater
Choose either a 3K walk or 5K run; either way, when you cross the finish line, you’ll head straight to an after-hours BBQ dinner and pool party, complete with open swim, pool games, a DJ, and crafts for kids.
May 17
Paramus Great Strides
Van Saun Park, Paramus
Join the 1- to 3- mile walk in support of research for cystic fibrosis. After the walk, stay for the carnival.
Step Up for a Cure: Walk to Cure Arthritis
Great Lawn Pavilion, Long Branch
The event will include oceanfront yoga sessions, Zumba-style exercise, a kids and family activity area, a paws-pitality area for dogs, sponsor booths, and more.
Princeton 5K Run and Walk
Mercer County Community College, West Windsor
Gather together and run the course in memory of a loved one who has passed.
May 25 (Memorial Day)
Memorial Day 5K Run/Walk
North Brunswick Community Park, North Brunswick
Dress in your most patriotic outfit and challenge yourself to the finish line. The Children’s Dash for kids ages 1 to 5 promotes healthy kids.
June 13
Red, White & Brew (Blue) 5K Run & 1-Mile Run/Walk
Moore’s Tavern, Freehold Twp.
Run or walk in the historic Revolutionary area in support of the Veterans Community Alliance. Anyone can join, but adults will get two free domestic beers after the race The first 150 finishers will get a patriotic medal.
June 14
MonmouthNJ 250 Stars & Strides Flag Day 5K & 1-Mile Freedom Walk
Bell Works, Holmdel
Wear red, white and blue as you join this race (or non-timed walk) in honor of America’s semiquincentennial.
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