Warm Up: 6 Winter Runs It’s Not Too Late to Sign Up For

The Pickle Run | Photo via Facebook

For me, the hardest thing about running during the winter season is making it out the door. The cold wind instantly makes me question my sanity — why would I ever leave the Kingdom of Coziness otherwise known as my bed? But falling behind on runs is no good, especially with the spring race season quickly approaching.

If you, too, have a hard time sticking to your winter runs, these should help: Six winter fun runs and races it’s not too late to sign up for — also known as your motivation to step out the door and show that frost who’s boss.

 1. Feel the Love 5K
When: Saturday, February 13th.
Where: The Navy Yard, 4747 South Broad Street #120, South Philly.
Registration: $35 before February 13th, race-day registration is $40.

The 10th annual Feel the Love 5K is perfect for those looking for a unique race (and maybe even a little romance) on Valentine’s Day weekend. Starting at the Navy Yard, this timed run is for teams of two. Couples run in opposite directions, passing each other on the course. And you don’t have to couple up with a romantic partner: You can team up with your significant other, your BFF or another solo competitor. To sweeten the deal, you get a complimentary beverage with your race bib at the after-party at McFadden’s in Citizen’s Bank Park.

 2. The Pickle Run
When: Saturday, February 20th and Saturday, March 19th.
Where: Ridley Creek State Park, 1023 Sycamore Mills Road, Media.
Registration: $12 pre-registration without a shirt, $20 pre-registration with a shirt.

Participants can choose one of two three-ish mile routes that run through Ridley Creek State Park, one paved and the other a more challenging trail. This is a prediction run, meaning runners attempt to finish the race closest to the time they guess before the start of the run. 20 uniquely dressed pickles (which have become equivalent to Olympic medals by Pickle Run regulars) are up for grabs. 10 are hidden throughout the course, while the other 10 are given to the top finishers. Other crazy prizes — like a VHS copy of Footloose and a Jar of Buttons — are given to the lucky few who find the hidden pickles. In case you couldn’t tell, this race doesn’t take itself too seriously — just ask the pickle mascot who roams the course to provide hype for runners. There are two events, one on February 20th and one on March 19th to cap off the winter running season.

 3. Cupid’s Undie Run
When: Saturday, February 20th.
Where: XFinity Live, 1100 Pattison Avenue, South Philly.
Registration: $45 through February 5th, $55 after.

Speaking of serious runs (joking, joking), Cupid’s Undie Run is back this year asking participants to once again strip to their undies and get running to raise money for the Children’s Tumor Foundation. This  one-mile fun run in South Philly is all about having a great time, so of course it ends with an after-party.

 4. Run Into Spring 5K
When: Sunday, February 21st.
Where: The Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Fairmount.
Registration: $35 pre-registration through February 19th at 10 a.m., race-day registration is $45.

The Philadelphia Flower Show’s Run Into Spring 5K takes runners on a timed loop course around the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Runners receive a commemorative Flower Show Finisher Medal, Run Into Spring 5K swag and, best of all, post-race grub. Racers can also opt to buy a ticket to the annual Flower Show for a bundled price of $55 with registration.

5. Shake Your Shamrock Run
When: Saturday, March 12th.
Where: The Shoppes at English Village, 1460 Bethlehem Pike, North Wales.
Registration: $30 through January 31, $35 after.

If you’re looking for a St. Patty’s Day-themed race with fantastic food, fun activities and, of course, beer, look no further. The Shake Your Shamrock Run has an 8K option and a 5K option, both of which start and end at Iron Hill Brewery. And to go with your post-race beer (or beers), expect food from Harvest Seasonal Grill, Jules Thin Crust Pizza and Trader Joe’s. All runners also receive a $5 gift card to Ironhill Brewery & Restaurant that can be used after you pound the pavement.

 6. St. Patrick’s Day 5K
When: Sunday, March 13th.
Where: Warminster Community Park, 300 Veterans Way, Warminster.
Registration: $29.99 through February 10, $32.50 after.

This flat course takes runners through the former grounds of the Johnsville Naval Air Station. And note: You can St. Pat yourself on the back (I know, my puns are entirely original and clever) after the run with post-race rounds at Tony’s Place in Ivyland.

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