Half Marathon races near St. Thomas

The 45th edition of this event offers a celebrated urban journey, beginning in Minneapolis and culminating in Saint Paul. It’s widely regarded as "the best weekend of the year" for its festive atmosphere and the unique opportunity to run through the heart of both Minnesota cities. This established race draws a large community of runners each autumn. With over 10,000 participants, the course provides a distinct experience, winding through the varied landscapes that connect Minneapolis to Saint Paul. Runners navigate city streets and scenic stretches, experiencing the energy of the Twin Cities from start to finish. The race culminates in Saint Paul, delivering a memorable conclusion to this anticipated annual event.

Spooky Sprint St. Paul offers multiple running distances on Halloween: 5K, 10K, half marathon, 1 mile, and a Kid's Dash for children 10 and under. The 5K, 10K, and half marathon are chip-timed with live results and awards. The 1 mile and Kid's Dash are untimed, providing shorter, less pressured options. The event emphasizes family participation. Participants receive a designer shirt, custom medal, bib, free photos, and finish line treats. Kid's Dash entries include a mini bib, youth-sized shirt, and a specific medal. Youth pricing is available for the 5K and 10K. Children can join the dash for free on race day without receiving swag. A virtual option allows participation from any location while still receiving event gear.

A Western theme is present throughout this fall Minnesota race series, influencing the aid stations, food, music, and finisher prizes. Gear West offers two distances: the Gear Western Country Half Marathon and the Borton Volvo 5k, allowing participants to select either a longer country-road race or a shorter option on the same day. The course incorporates quiet country roads, rolling hills, lakeside sections, autumn foliage, and crushed limestone trails. This event is designed for families and friends, permitting strollers and welcoming leashed dogs. Participants can find warmth inside the store before the start and linger post-race for live music, warm refreshments, awards, and a finisher campfire cup. The crew neck sweatshirt, previously earned by past runners, is now an optional purchase following a reduction in the entry fee.

Turkey Trails St. Paul is a Thanksgiving-themed running event held at Como Regional Park in St. Paul, Minnesota, offering distances suitable for most participants. Runners can select from a half marathon, 10K, 5K, or 1 mile. Younger children have a Kids Dash option for ages 10 and under. The 1 mile and Kids Dash are untimed events. The 5K, 10K, and half marathon utilize chip timing, providing live results and awards. The event is designed to be family-friendly, with youth pricing available for the 5K and 10K. Children can participate in the Kids Dash without charge if they forgo the event merchandise. Most registrations include a custom bib, a designed shirt, and a finisher medal. Participants in the Kids Dash receive a mini bib, a youth shirt, and a medal designed for children. All finishers are provided with complimentary race photos and refreshments at the finish line. A virtual participation option is also available, allowing individuals to run at their own location while still receiving the event's merchandise.