10K races near Santa Clarita

The Mean Girls 5K, 10K and Half Marathon transforms the LA River Path into North Shore High for a comedy-themed running event in Canoga Park. This race is part of Jed and Ted's Excellent Races, a San Fernando Valley series focused on '80s and '90s movie and TV themes, offering a relaxed, low-stress atmosphere rather than a large-city marathon feel. Participants can select a 5K, 10K, or half marathon, with the themed setup accommodating casual runners, local regulars, and those seeking a longer distance. The primary course begins in Canoga Park, following the paved LA River path. The 10K is an out-and-back covering approximately three miles of continuous path without any traffic crossings. 5K participants utilize a portion of this route, while half marathoners complete the course twice with an additional section. Refreshments are available at the start line and the 5K turnaround. The decorations are understated but align with the theme, the medals are unique to each race, and the finish area is relaxed, allowing runners to converse with race directors and begin recognizing other participants over time.

The Back to the Future: 88 MPH Dash is a themed running event in Canoga Park, California, starting at 7:00 a.m. PST with three in-person distances: a 5K, 10K, and half marathon. Jed & Ted’s Excellent Races presents the series. Runners unable to attend in person may select a virtual option, the Multiverse Flux Capacitor Challenge. The race embraces Back to the Future and 1980s pop culture. The 5K is the 88 MPH Sprint, the 10K is the Twin Pines 10K, honoring the mall from the films, and the half marathon is the Enchantment Under the Run Half Marathon. The event acknowledges Back to the Future Day, plays 80s music, provides themed photo areas with futuristic props, and encourages period or character costumes.

Spooky Dam is a Halloween-season running series at Hansen Dam in Los Angeles, offering 5k, 10k, 15k, and half marathon distances. Races begin in the morning and are organized by A Better World Running. Costumes are encouraged, making it a more casual and playful event than a standard road race. The start and finish are located on the path opposite Hansen Dam Skate Park, with free parking available in a nearby lot. The course is an open out-and-back route where runners share the path with pedestrians, other runners, and cyclists. It's straightforward to navigate, featuring a single small hill around 0.6 miles from the start. An aid station on each loop provides water, Gatorade, and Gu gels. The 5k completes one loop, the 10k two, the 15k three, and the half marathon consists of three 4.36-mile loops. Participants receive custom medals, goodie bags, complimentary photos and videos, snacks, and results posted online within 12 to 24 hours.

The Veterans Day Freedom Run in Los Angeles takes place annually in Palisades Park near Veterans Day. Participants can select a 5K, 10K, or half marathon, or a 1-mile Family Fun Run. The event accommodates runners and walkers of all paces, and those under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. The event uses timed waves that close once full. Runners who do not secure a spot can join a waitlist or opt for the virtual race. The course map is distributed via email to registered participants. A virtual 5K, 10K, and 13.1-mile option is available for remote participation. An eco-registration option excludes the t-shirt. Participants may fundraise for a charity of their choice, with all net proceeds directed to the selected cause.

The Run for Mental Health 5K/10K/13.1 Los Angeles begins at Palisades Park; race map details will be emailed to participants. The event includes 5K, 10K, and half marathon distances, with a relaxed atmosphere welcoming runners and walkers of all ages and paces. The event focuses on mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and initiating open conversations about well-being. Participants can run for their own mental health or in honor of someone they know. Race merchandise will be shipped directly to each runner.

Turkey Trot Los Angeles begins and ends at historic Los Angeles City Hall on Thanksgiving morning. This Downtown LA charity run and walk features a 5k, 10k, 1 Mile Dog Jog, and a Widdle Wobble for children 12 and under. The event attracts thousands of participants, from families and first-timers to those competing before Thanksgiving dinner. It also generates funds for The Midnight Mission, aiming to raise $100,000 to aid individuals experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles. The course circles Grand Park, passing Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Broad, and the Museum of Contemporary Art, then proceeds down historic Spring Street, one of the city's oldest thoroughfares. Many participants wear costumes, with runners often appearing as turkeys, pilgrims, pies, and other Thanksgiving-themed characters. Dogs have their own 1-mile event but are prohibited from the 5k or 10k courses. Race packets are available for pickup before the event at Angel City Brewery or Grand Park. The Grand Park festival includes family activities like mini pumpkin painting prior to race day.

Turkey Trot Chicago is a Thanksgiving race series in Chicago offering four distances: 5k, 10k, 15k, and a half marathon. It is structured as a holiday race day, allowing participants to select a distance ranging from a short, family-friendly run to a more challenging half marathon. The event features a kids run, integrating it into the Thanksgiving traditions for families alongside adult runners. The race day embraces the holiday theme with a festive atmosphere and a post-race gathering, giving it the feel of a seasonal event rather than a standard road race.

Drumstick Dash LA is a Thanksgiving Day 5K and 10K in Los Angeles County, featuring an officially certified course and approximately 8,000 participants. Hope the Mission bills it as the county’s largest 5K/10K, supported by over 250 volunteers. It accommodates serious runners seeking a measured race while also welcoming families beginning the holiday together. The day starts with the children’s “Lil” Gobblers race at 7:45 am, followed by the main dash. The event benefits Hope the Mission, with proceeds designated for providing around 3 million meals, encapsulated by the phrase “move their feet, so others can eat.” Participants receive a shirt and finisher medal, with awards presented. Additional Thanksgiving activities include a costume contest, dance contest, freebies, and an ABC7 Street Team photo booth offering swag.

Turkey Trot LA is a Thanksgiving morning running event beginning at Los Angeles City Hall on North Spring Street. The schedule accommodates various participants: a 1 Mile Dog Jog begins first, followed by two 5K waves, then the 10K later in the morning, and the Widdle Wobble offers young children their own short race. Runners seeking additional mileage can opt for the 5K/10K Combo, completing both races consecutively. The event takes place in downtown Los Angeles, using City Hall as its central point, rather than a park or suburban route. Dogs are permitted on the course for the Dog Jog, but all individuals accompanying a dog must be registered. Each finisher receives a medal and a race shirt. The event supports The Midnight Mission, aiming to raise $100,000.