Turkey Trot 2024

The annual Turkey Trot in San Jose has become a Thanksgiving tradition that not only kicks off the holiday with a burst of energy but also underscores the community spirit of giving and wellness. This year, the 2024 Silicon Valley Turkey Trot, held on November 28, continues to be America's largest Thanksgiving Day race, attracting thousands of participants eager to run or walk through the heart of Silicon Valley.

Event Overview:

• Date: Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024.
• Location: Downtown San Jose, starting at Santa Clara Street and 1st Street.
• Distances: Participants can choose between a 5K run/walk, a 10K run, or join in on the fun with the Kids Fun Run for those aged 2-7.

Highlights of the Trot:

• Community Engagement: The Turkey Trot isn't just about the race; it's a community event where local residents, families, and friends gather to celebrate the start of Thanksgiving. The event fosters a sense of togetherness, with many dressing up in turkey costumes or festive Thanksgiving attire, adding a playful vibe to the proceedings.
• Charitable Impact: One of the standout features of the Silicon Valley Turkey Trot is its commitment to charity. All proceeds from the race benefit local organizations like Second Harvest of Silicon Valley, The Health Trust, Healthier Kids Foundation, and Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County. This year marks the 20th anniversary, where the Trot has significantly contributed to these causes, improving lives by providing food, clothing, shelter, and education.
• Course and Experience: The course through downtown San Jose is both flat and fast, ideal for runners looking to set a personal best or for those who prefer a leisurely walk. The route takes participants through diverse neighborhoods, showcasing the city's vibrant urban landscape and historic areas like Japantown and The Alameda.
• Post-Race Festivities: After crossing the finish line, runners and walkers are greeted with a festival atmosphere. This includes a costume contest, post-race snacks, live entertainment, and an awards ceremony for top finishers. The event also provides a swag bag to participants, which includes a long-sleeve tech shirt, a finisher medal, and a reusable water bottle.
• Inclusivity: The Turkey Trot is inclusive to all fitness levels. Whether you're an elite runner or someone who enjoys a brisk walk, there's a place for you. The Kids Fun Run adds an element of fun and encourages the younger generation to participate in healthy, community-based activities.

The last day to register is tomorrow, November 28th, at 8:30am. If you're interested and still haven't gotten your tickets, head over here! 

Santa Run Silicon Valley is coming to San Jose on Dec 17th

Are you ready to join thousands of Santas, elves, reindeer, and other festive characters for a fun and charitable event in Downtown San Jose? If so, mark your calendars for December 17th, when the 12th Annual Santa Run Silicon Valley will take place.

The Santa Run Silicon Valley is a 5K run/walk that benefits Christmas in the Park and the Downtown Streets Team, two local organizations that work to make San Jose a safe, clean, and vibrant place for everyone. The event is organized by the Silicon Valley Leadership Group Foundation, which also produces the Silicon Valley Turkey Trot and the Lam Research Heart & Soles Run.

The Santa Run Silicon Valley is not just a race, it's a celebration of the holiday spirit. Participants are encouraged to dress up as their favorite holiday character or tradition, and enjoy the festive atmosphere at the start and finish lines. There will also be a costume contest, a kids reindeer dash, and a virtual run option for those who can't make it in person.

The race starts at 8 AM at W Santa Clara Street and Almaden Avenue, and follows a scenic route through Downtown San Jose. The finish line is at Christmas in the Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful displays and attractions. You can also visit the nearby Winter Wonderland for some ice skating and carnival rides.

If you want to be part of this merry event, you can register online at https://www.santarunsv.com/ until December 16th, or on race day at the San Jose Chamber of Commerce. The registration fee is $45 for the 5K Santa Run and $25 for the Kids Reindeer Dash (ages 2-7). You can also sign up as a Holiday Hero for $500 or $1000 and get extra perks like VIP parking, a private tent, and recognition on the website. All proceeds go to support Christmas in the Park and Downtown Streets Team.

Don't miss this chance to have some fun, get some exercise, and give back to our community. The Santa Run Silicon Valley is a San Jose tradition that you won't want to miss!

Rock 'n' Roll Marathon this Weekend

If you’re looking for a fun and fast way to experience the spirit of San Jose, look no further than the Rock ‘n’ Roll San Jose marathon. This annual event, which will take place on September 30 and October 1, 2023, is part of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series that features live music, cheer squads, and a festive atmosphere along the course.

The Rock ‘n’ Roll San Jose marathon offers four distances to choose from: half marathon, 10K, 5K, and KiDS ROCK. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a beginner, you’ll find a challenge that suits your level and goal. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the scenic views of downtown San Jose, the Rose Garden, and the Alameda as you run.

The race weekend kicks off with a two-day Health & Fitness Expo at the San Jose Convention Center, where you can pick up your race packet, shop for running gear, and get inspired by guest speakers and experts. On Saturday, you can join the 5K or the KiDS ROCK races, which are perfect for families and friends who want to have some fun together. On Sunday, you can test your endurance and speed in the half marathon or the 10K races, which are known for being flat and fast.

But the fun doesn’t stop at the finish line. You’ll also get to celebrate your achievement with a medal, a T-shirt, a free beverage, and admission to the Finish Line Festival and Post-Race Concert. There, you can rock out to live bands, enjoy food and drinks from local vendors, and mingle with other runners and spectators.

If you’re feeling generous, you can also run for a cause by joining the St. Jude Heroes program. By fundraising for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, you’ll get free race entry and other perks, such as an exclusive medal, a race singlet, and access to the race weekend hospitality experience. You’ll also help St. Jude lead the way in treating and defeating childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.

Register now for the Rock ‘n’ Roll San Jose marathon and get ready to rock your run. You’ll not only have a blast, but also make some lasting memories in Speed City (new nickname for San Jose?). For more information and registration details, visit the official website of the event.

The Color Run Dream Tour comes to San Jose, Saturday May 27

SAN JOSE (April 26, 2017) – The Color Run®, the largest 5k event series in the world, will bring its 2017 tour theme, The Color Run Dream Tour, Presented by Lay’s®, to Arena Green East—Guadalupe River Park onSaturday, May 27, kicking off at 8:00 a.m. The Color Run Dream Tour will create a world where anything is possible, unicorns are real and foam clouds make everything better. The 2017 theme will make Color Runners’ dreams a lot more colorful with unforgettable music, color throws and an all new Lay’s® Poppables™ Foam Zone and Dream Wall. The San Jose run will benefit the American Diabetes Association’s Step Out: San Jose, an inspiring event to support all people living with diabetes.

“We want The Color Run to bring happiness and health to people’s lives, and even be the motivator that kicks off Color Runners’ healthy lifestyles. We are excited to come to San Jose and give Color Runners the opportunity to step into a dream with us and enjoy a 5k that inspires people to get out and be active with their friends and families, all while having a blast!” said Louis Wills, The Color Run’s event director. “Our participants will experience an all new Lay’s Poppables Foam Zone and Dream Wall, fresh photo opps, giant unicorns, tons of color and even more music across the whole course on our Dream Tour.”

As participants enter the magical course, they experience the classic Color Zones and the brand new Lay’s Poppables Foam Zone, where they’re surrounded by dreamy colored foam or “clouds” as they run through the most colorful dream of all. The Dream Tour is filled with even more vibrant music across the whole course, radiant new colors, giant unicorns and the Dream Wall—a new addition to the course where runners spray paint their dreams on the wall to be seen by all. After crossing the Finish Line, Color Runners enjoy the Finish Festival, where they party with the Runicorn, dance, find unique photo opportunities and join in on massive color throws every couple of minutes.

Each Color Runner receives a custom race kit, including a limited-edition Dream Tour race shirt, a Unicorn Finisher’s Medal, embroidered headband, fun temporary tattoos and a color-in runner’s bib—to inspire participants to decorate and color their runner’s bib. An option to upgrade race kits to receive additional gear is also available with the deluxe registration package. Participants can color it up with more accessories, clothing and fun dream inspired items at The Color Run store.

Event:                 The Color Run Dream Tour, Presented by Lay’s in San Jose

Date:                   Saturday, May 27

Time:                   8:00 a.m.

Location:            Arena green East—Guadalupe River Park

     340 West Saint John Street

     San Jose, CA 95110

Tickets:               Team | $34.99

                             Individual | $39.99

     *Prices to increase closer to event

The Color Run announces a new partnership with Lay’s®, who will be the 2017 presenting sponsor for the 5k paint races in North America. Lay’s is delighted to add even more vibrancy to The Color Run through flavorful and fun experiences that will uplift participants throughout the day, including experiential activation and free product samples. To learn more about Lay’s®, you can visit www.facebook.com/lays.

The Dream Tour marks the sixth anniversary of The Color Run. The tour will be making stops all around the globe and is anticipated to visit more than 27 countries worldwide in 2017. Registration for The Color Run Dream Tour, Presented by Lay’s in San Jose is open until the start of the run. To register or for more information about The Color Run Dream Tour, Presented by Lay’s®, visit, www.thecolorrun.com/locations/san-jose. Join the #Happiest5K and the #DreamInColors journey on social media by following The Color Run on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About The Color Run®

The Color Run is the largest event series in the world and the first of its kind. Founded in 2012, the number one goal of The Color Run is to produce the ‘Happiest 5k on the Planet’ giving participants an unforgettable experience. With no winners or official times, The Color Run celebrates healthiness, happiness, and individuality, helping participants achieve their fitness goals by providing a fun, un-intimidating running environment. To learn more about The Color Run, visit The Color Run Website. #Happiest5k #DreamInColors

The Color Run is a product of Bigsley™ Event House, a leading creator of experiential events including: The Color Run Night®, Pumpkin Nights, Dam Train Race, Electric Run® and Soul Pose™.

San Jose 408K "Race to the Row" takes place this weekend

If you are still burning off some of those holiday calories like I am, one of San Jose's most popular 8k runs takes place this weekend. Now in its 6th year, "Race to the Row" begins in Downtown San Jose at the SAP Center and finishes at Santana Row. Along the way there are special areas highlighting various foundations and San Jose culture, including the Joe Bell Memorial Mile, the Mariachi Mile, a Low-Rider car show, and San Jose's finest. Proceeds from the race benefit the Pat Tillman Foundation.

For more details and to register, head over to the San Jose 408k webpage.

THE SAN JOSE 408K CELEBRATES SIX YEARS OF LOCAL CULTURE
PAT TILLMAN FOUNDATION, MARIACHI MILE, & JOE BELL MEMORIAL RETURN

San Jose, Calif. -- 3/1/17 – The San Jose 408k “Race to the Row” Benefitting the Pat Tillman Foundation celebrates its 6th annual running this Sunday, March 5th.  From start to finish, the 8k run/walk in the 408 area codes has quickly become one of the most authentically local running events.

“Six years ago our wildest dream was to create race a big race that highlighted the culture and lifestyle in San Jose, while also benefiting a community connected cause. Over half a decade later, not only are we doing that in San Jose, but through out the San Francisco Bay Area,” said J.T. Service, San Jose 408k and Represent Running founder.

That guiding mission came from early race staples such as the Mariachi Mile, and using low-rider cars for lead vehicles on course, to the single most memorable moment in the race’s history – WWII Army vet Joe Bell cheering on the runners as they passed by his house which turned into a national story.

Mr. Bell’s passing prior to the 2015 event prompted the event to enact the Joe Bell Memorial Mile, a section of the course dedicated to honoring United States service members and now expanded to include all first responders.

The Memorial Mile will be located during the 4th mile of the 8k run. It will begin at Garden and Emory St. near the San Jose Rose Garden and continue down Emory to Bascom Ave. Residents of the neighborhood within Memorial Mile will be provided with American flags to place along the course. Veterans and active military groups or individuals interested in participating are encouraged to contact race organizers at info@representrunning.com

Another inspiring story includes two San Jose 408k runners will also honor the memories of SGT Scott Lunger (Hayward Police Department) and Officer Jeffery Fontana (San Jose Police Department) by carrying and crossing the finish line with American flags courtesy of the Flags 4 Fallen Foundation.

All participants receive a low-rider themed finishers medal, exclusive Cukui designed participant shirt, Santana Row after party and an outpouring of love from the people of San Jose.  All local companies are encouraged to participant in the Amazon Healthy Co. Challenge.

To register or to receive more information on the Memorial Mile and San Jose 408k “Race to the Row” please visit www.run408k.com.


About the San Jose 408k Race to the Row
The San Jose 408k “Race to the Row” is an 8k run from SAP Center in San Jose to Santana Row. The 6th Annual event expects over 6,000 local runners, celebrates the Pat Tillman Foundation as its Official Charity, and calls San Jose home. On the course runners enjoy a low-rider car show, Joe Bell Memorial Mile, and final Mariachi Mile with live Mariachi bands. The 408k is part of a Bay Area wide series called the Run the Bay Challenge including the Across the Bay 12k and the East Bay 5k & 510k.  More info at www.run408k.com and www.representrunning.com

About the Pat Tillman Foundation 
In 2002, Pat Tillman proudly put his NFL career with the Arizona Cardinals on hold to serve his country. Family and friends established the Pat Tillman Foundation following Pat’s death in April 2004 while serving with the 75th Ranger Regiment in Afghanistan. Created to honor Pat’s legacy of leadership and service, the Pat Tillman Foundation invests in military veterans and their spouses through academic scholarships–building a diverse community of leaders committed to service to others. For more information on the Pat Tillman Foundation and the impact of the Tillman Scholars, visit www.PatTillmanFoundation.org.

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Silicon Valley Turkey Trot

The Turkey Trot is a San Jose Thanksgiving Day tradition! Events include a 5k run/walk, a 10k run, a Celebrity/CEO 5k, and a wheelchair 10k.

The event starts at 8:30am in Downtown San Jose and goes until noon. Registration typically runs around $45. Even if you are not walking, running, or rolling, there is a festival area and kid zone with plenty of fun things to do.

For more info and to register, head over here.

The Color Run Tropicolor™ World Tour Makes a Splash in San Jose, May 28, 2016

San Jose, CA – The Color Run®, the largest 5K event series in the world, will bring its 2016 tour theme, “The Color Run Tropicolor™ World Tour” to San Jose on May 28, kicking off at 8:00 a.m. The Color Run Tropicolor World Tour will combine the enjoyment of a 5k with all the fun leisure of an island-style vacation full of unforgettable memories, music, and colors. The San Jose run benefits the American Diabetes Association’s San Jose office, a non-profit organization providing diabetes research, information and advocacy.

“We want to bring happiness and health to people’s lives and The Color Run does just that. We are excited to come to San Jose and give Color Runners the opportunity to step into paradise with us and enjoy a 5K vacation that only The Color Run can create,” said Louis Wills, The Color Run’s event director. “Our participants will experience palm trees, beach balls in the air, festive music, tons of color, island flowers and more at our Tropicolor World Tour. It’ll be a colorific experience you won’t want to miss!”

Brand new this year is the Tropicolor Zone™ on the course, where Color Runners will be bathed in a tropical array of colors and delicious island scents as they pass through the shade of palm trees, inflatable arches, and island-style music. Participants can expect to be whisked away to paradise and splashed with vivid colors every kilometer as they pass a different color zone. At the Finish Festival, Color Runners will enjoy even more fun at Rainbow Beach—an interactive island featuring music, dancing, unique photo opportunities, and massive color throws.

Each Color Runner will receive a custom race kit, including a limited-edition Tropicolor race shirt, finishers medal on a floral-printed ribbon, embroidered headband, and fun temporary tattoos. An option to upgrade race kits to receive additional gear is also available with the deluxe registration package. Participants can color it up with more accessories, clothing and fun paradise inspired items at The Color Run store.

Event: The Color Run Tropicolor World Tour in San Jose
Date: Saturday, May 28, 2016
Time: 8:00 a.m.
Location: Arena Green East – Guadalupe River Park
330 West Saint John Street, San Jose, CA
Tickets: $44.99

The Tropicolor World Tour marks the fifth anniversary of The Color Run. The tour will be making stops all around the globe and is anticipated to visit more than 40 countries worldwide in 2016. Registration for The Color Run Tropicolor World Tour in San Jose is open and tickets are available until the start of the run. To purchase your ticket or for more information about The Color Run Tropicolor World Tour, visit, thecolorrun.com/san-jose. Join the #Happiest5K #Tropicolor journey on social media by following The Color Run on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

The Chardonnay Run Comes to San Jose on October 24th

A 5K wine racing series called "The Chardonnay Run" is coming to Downtown San Jose on Sunday, October 24th. The untimed run will begin and end in the Arena Green near the SAP Center and the finish line has a festival featuring food, live music, and as the name implies--plenty of wine. For more information, check out the event website over here.

49ers Legend Roger Craig and San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo to Run with Dozens of Kids on National Running Day

Later today there is going to be a big announcement regarding San Jose's Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon in September. I don't have any details yet besides what is on the press release below, but the announcement is going to take place between 11am-11:30am at the Children's Discovery Museum in celebration of National Running Day (today). After the announcement comes in, I'll revise this post with the news (feel free to post in the comments if you get the info before I do).

What:

Mayor Sam Liccardo and San Francisco 49ers legend Roger Craig will join community leaders in celebration of a marquee announcement for Rock ‘n’ Roll San Jose Half Marathon, aimed at getting Bay Area kids healthy and active. 

Who:

• Mayor Sam Liccardo, City of San Jose 
• Karolyn Kirchgesler, Team San Jose CEO
• 49ers legend Roger Craig, Rock ‘n’ Roll San Jose Founder 
• Bekah Holt, Rock ‘n’ Roll San Jose Event Manager
• Mario Fraioli, author of The Official Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series Training Guide
• Local sports mascots 
• Live music and community leaders

When: Wednesday, June 3 (National Running Day) / 11:00 am – 11:30 am

Where: Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose / 180 Woz Way, San Jose, CA 95110

Why:             

• Rock ‘n’ Roll San Jose Half Marathon is celebrating its 10^th anniversary by unveiling new race elements on National Running Day
• New race for kids encourages a healthy lifestyle and combats childhood obesity 
• City officials will share the positive impact the race has on the community including the 2014 economic impact from race weekend

SantaRun Silicon Valley

Tomorrow there will be a 5k Run/Walk in Downtown San Jose that will benefit Christmas in the Park and Downtown Ice. Dressing up as your favorite holiday character is highly encouraged. The festivities begin at 1pm and the race itself starts at 3pm. For more info head to http://www.santarunsv.com.

Join us on Sunday, December 14, 2014 at 3:00 PM for the TiVo “Santa Run Silicon Valley”, a new tradition in San Jose benefiting our favorite holiday traditions; Christmas in the Park and Downtown Ice. Festivities kick off at 1:00 PM on race day with the race starting at 3:00 pm. The TiVo “Santa Run Silicon Valley” is a 5K Run/Walk that is fun for the whole family. We encourage you to dress up as your favorite holiday character or tradition; Santa, Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, reindeer, elves, dreidel, menorah, ornaments, tree, candlestick. The ideas are limitless. You can do it as a group too! Bring the whole family for a day of fun; looking at festive displays, community trees and watching live entertainment at Christmas in the Park. Or, warm up those legs before the run and skate at Downtown Ice under the lighted palm trees or warm up with some hot chocolate. Either way, grandparents, parents and kids alike will all enjoy the timeless memories these great activities have to offer.

Turkey Trot 2014 Next Week

The 10th Annual Turkey Trot is taking place next week on Thanksgiving morning. There will be Elite 5k/10k races, a Wheelchair 5k/10k, a Run/Walk 5k, Costume Contests, and a Kid's Fun Run. The race starts at Santa Clara Street at Market and finishes at Santa Clara Street at Delmas with a huge festival at the Guadalupe River Park and Arena Green. Over the past 9 years this event has raised $4 million for local charities. The goal for this year is to raise $1 million!

For more information and to sign up for the event, head over here!