If you could dream up the ideal holiday bash, complete with local microbrews, hot chocolate, and hearty soup, not to mention a DJ playing your favorite holiday hits – could you imagine this spectacular party mashed up into a half marathon and 5K? Well, Foot Traffic of Portland did and it’s been a hit ever since. Here’s why you should jingle all the way to the Holiday Half and 5K in North Portland on Sunday, December 10.
No one throws a party like Adidas
Start and finish line festivities will be at the Adidas campus where you’ll find the gym and courtyards perfectly decorated for the holidays, not to mention warm enough to heat up on the coldest of winter days before and after your race. Take advantage of the great photo ops around the Christmas tree while browsing through other fun finish line festivities while the DJ spins holiday beats all morning. From classic holiday songs to dance-worthy tunes, it’ll make for a festive atmosphere after a race in the Pacific Northwest winter weather.
Time to unwrap some schwag
Registered entrants will receive a long sleeve tech t-shirt if they sign up before November 10, and a special commemorative award at the finish. Half marathon finishers will get a large, ornate, custom medal that’s guaranteed to make anyone smile after running a half marathon on a cold winter morning. Awards will be given for the fastest runners in each age group, and Foot Traffic will be giving away random door prizes all morning, so make sure to enjoy the festivities while you wait for your name to be called.
Cruise as if you’re on a sleigh ride
This flat course meanders through North Portland with views of the St. John’s Bridge, University of Portland, Willamette River, and the winter beauty of the Pacific Northwest. This 6.5-mile out and back route along beautiful Willamette Blvd. will return you to an approximately 400-meter gradual downhill finish into a cheering Adidas Campus. Did we mention that carolers will be along the course just so you feel like you haven’t lost the festive holiday spirit while you’re out running.
Run before the feast
Not only will our aid stations feature a few festive treats, but runners will find a feast awaits at the finish. Deschutes Brewery be serving their award-winning brews, along with a hearty protein-rich recovery soup, cornbread muffins, Dave’s Killer Bread, Umqua Oats and a variety of other snacks and beverages – all deemed appropriate for boosting the holiday spirit and replenishing calories burned.
We guarantee you won’t regret braving the cold for this festive half marathon and 5K in December. Get ready to forget about all the holiday shopping that’s left to do, and come get in the spirit by running a fast half through one of Portland’s most scenic neighborhoods. Sign up at foottraffic.us/holiday.