Half Marathon races near Jim Thorpe

The D&L RaceFest, presented by St. Luke’s, is a November race weekend in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley. It is built around four events on and near the D&L Trail: the St. Luke’s D&L Marathon, the St. Luke’s D&L Marathon Relay, the D&L Heritage Half Marathon Run, and the D&L Heritage Half Marathon Walk. The marathon covers 26.2 miles between Allentown and downtown Easton, with most of its miles on the D&L Trail, Pennsylvania’s longest multi-use trail. The routes offer runners, relay teams, and walkers a late-fall point-to-point race on a softer, joint-friendly surface. The event continues the November tradition of the D&L Heritage Half Marathon Run and Walk, while also using sections of the former St. Luke’s Via Marathon and Marathon Relay. Proceeds benefit the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor Inc., a 501(c)3, supporting heritage and environmental programs, plus development and promotion of the D&L Trail. Free downloadable race photos are included through the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor and St. Luke’s University Health Network.

The Lehigh Valley Turkey Trot is a post-Thanksgiving 5K and fun walk held in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. It begins at Luckenbach Mill on Old York Road. The annual event offers a 5K for runners and competitive walkers, alongside a 1.7-mile fun walk for those seeking a more relaxed pace. Starts are staggered: runners depart first, followed by competitive walkers, and then fun walkers. Over 1,000 participants attended the last event, indicating its status as a community-scale race. The course winds through Historic Bethlehem and the Moravian Church Settlements, providing a view of one of the city’s historic districts. Dogs are welcome and participate in a pet costume contest, which is held alongside a general costume contest for runners and walkers in holiday or race-themed attire. Awards are presented for individual and group costumes, with judging criteria including creativity, pet-and-handler pairings, and adherence to the Turkey Trot theme. Proceeds from the race benefit Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites, supporting preservation efforts and educational programs on local history spanning three centuries. Registered 5K participants receive a shirt, refreshments, weekend museum admission, and a shop discount.

Mother's Day Run: inflatable finish line arch, fresh rose for women runners. Walkers and families welcome. Non-binary registration with dedicated awards. First half marathon or marathon runners receive a commemorative plaque with finisher's medal. High-end SWAG, post-race food and drink. Festive and memorable day.