The holiday season is just around the corner. With it comes the arrival of the 5K season and the ceremonial Turkey Trot (or two). With Jacksonville’s active running community, thankfully, there are plenty of opportunities to get your feet moving this fall.

11/11

Veterans Day Fun Run
Instead of a 5K, how about a fun 5 miler? The Veterans Day 5 Mile Fun Run takes place on Amelia Island, and is sure to deliver some beautiful scenery. The course starts downtown and moves east to the Main Beach turn around. There are also turnaround points for folks who decide to run a 1 mile or 5K race, instead of the full 5 miles. However, the race is advertised as an opportunity to “feel the resistance and ability to overcome what veterans over the years have.” It’s an invitation to push yourself, to go just a bit farther. Proceeds support Cross the Line Scholarship and K9 for Warriors. $30-$45. 9 a.m. Amelia Island: 1 North Front Street, Fernandina Beach, FL; eventbrite.com/e/veterans-day-fun-run-tickets-189407441757

11/13

Bailey’s Health & Fitness Mandarin Run
Whether you prefer to run in person or go the virtual route, both 5K and 10K race routes options are available to those who sign up. This one tends to be really big and fun and is the perfect pre-Thanksgiving opportunity to burn some carbs before we get down to feasting. $35. 8 a.m. Bailey’s Health & Fitness: 11740-2 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL; raceroster.com/events/2021/49531/baileys-health-and-fitness-mandarin-run

11/14

novo nordisk / Jaguars 5K Stadium Challenge
With video boards streaming a live feed while you run, the annual Jaguars 5K Stadium Challenge is always a fan favorite. With a 1 mile fun run and 5K option, this unique course goes both inside and outside of the stadium and ends with a sprint across the football field. The funds support the Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation and local youth sports programs. Also, you can purchase a game ticket, at a discounted rate, while you sign up for the race. All participants (of age) receive a free 10 oz beer at the post-race celebration. $30. 5 p.m. TIAA Bank Field: 1 TIAA Bank Field Dr., Jacksonville, FL; 1stplacesports.com/races/stadium5k/ 

2021 Salute to Veterans Run
If you are looking for something active that includes your pup, the 10th annual 2021 Salute to Veterans Run also has a 1 mile Patriotic Paw Parade. Bring your dog in their most patriotic ensemble. For the humans, this 5K takes all its runners — usually more than 750 people — along the beautiful St. Johns River and through parts of downtown Jacksonville. There is also a family-oriented Race Village, for both participants and spectators to enjoy, with food, drinks and entertainment. Plus, unique to the race this year is the inclusion of free entry to the Jacksonville Naval Museum with your race ticket. If you need even more incentive, the top male and female placers receive a $250 prize. So, what are you waiting for? Sign up now. $25-$55. 8 a.m. Duval County Veterans Memorial Wall: 1145 E Adams St., Jacksonville, FL; salutetoveteransrun.itsyourrace.com/event.aspx 

11/19

Running of the Knights
At Creekside High School, come on out for the Running of the Knights 5K or 1 mile run/walk. The most unique piece of entertainment throughout the evening will include centipede costume awards. Since this is an evening race, they are prepared to party the night away afterwards, with live music, dinner, games and awards. All proceeds go to fund Creekside High School athletic and band programs. It’s a great chance to support a great cause. $20-$35. 5:30 p.m. Creekside High School: 100 Knights Ln, St. Johns, FL; raceroster.com/events/2021/50482/running-of-the-knights 

11/25

First Coast Turkey Trot
The First Coast Turkey Trot is an excellent way to prepare for a Thanksgiving dinner throwdown. Race options include the 1 mile fun run or 5K; both routes run along Ponte Vedra Blvd. The starting line is at the beautiful Mickler’s Beach. Whether you are local to Jacksonville or St. Augustine, this race location gives you the option to explore either city afterwards. A portion of proceeds will benefit the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind Ski & Winter Sports Athletic $30-$35. 8:30 a.m. Club. Mickler’s Beach: 109 Ponte Vedra Boulevard, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL; visitstaugustine.com/event/first-coast-turkey-trot