Lace up your running shoes and hit the pavement for the upcoming races happening in Downstate IL.

Thanksgiving Day Races Thursday November 23rd, 2023

For many, starting Thanksgiving Day with a race has become a family tradition. If you’re looking to find a local race to continue the tradition or start a new one, there are plenty in our area.

Thanksgiving 5K and Turkey Chase – Belleville - Each year, Belleville hosts their annual Thanksgiving 5K and Turkey Chase at the Public Square. This year, the race starts at 8 a.m. and proceeds support the Belleville Hockey Club.

2023 Albion Turkey Trot – Albion – Start your Thanksgiving morning out at the Albion Turkey Trot. This event is free and has been going on for ten years.

Gobble Hobble Fun Run – Highland – The Gobble Hobble Fun Run is a fun-for-all 2-mile run that starts bright and early at Korte Recreation Center. The cost is $10 or @25 with a T-shirt. 

RCRC Turkey Trot 5K – Olney – Olney is putting on their annual Turkey Trot starting at 7 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day. This race is free, but a $10 suggestion donation is appreciated.

Winter Races

Bundle up and hit the ground running for these winter races. All levels are welcome and encouraged to start a new holiday tradition!

Colyer Coffee House Fun Hot Cocoa 5K – Albion – Colyer Coffee House is hosting a Fun Hot Cocoa 5K. For $20, kick off the holiday season with a fun run on Saturday, November 25th and spend time with the Albion community.   

Gingerbread 5K – Belleville – Join Belleville Parks and Recreation on a run through Downtown Belleville. The race is on December 2nd and kicks off at 8:30 a.m. All levels are welcome.

Frost Fest 5K – Highland – The CEO Class of 2024 is hosting an event at Highland Elementary School. On December 2nd, students and their families can enjoy a 5k followed by a pancake breakfast and festival games. The CEO program consists of 5 local high schools and allows high school seniors to learn about business from local entrepreneurs. 

Way of Lights Run – Belleville – Start 2024 off on the right foot by participating in the Way of Lights run hosted by Our Lady of the Snows Shrine. This competitive 5k and 1.5-mile fun walk is an evening race that will take you through the holiday lights on the shrine grounds on January 1st. 

For more information on events in our region, visit our Events page: https://www.downstateil.org/events