10K races near Thousand Oaks

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 Sharsheret West Coast Dash offers a 5K and 10K run/walk at Dockweiler Beach in Los Angeles, with the race taking place at 12000 Vista Del Mar. The event is set for a Sunday morning in October. The 5K begins at 7:00 AM, followed by the 10K at 8:00 AM. The format allows participants to select either the 5K or 10K distance. Runners and walkers will assemble at a prominent Los Angeles beach location near Playa del Rey. Registration is managed via RunSignup. This event is part of the Sharsheret West Coast Dash series.

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.

The Santa Monica-Venice Christmas Run is a holiday road race held in Santa Monica and Venice, California, offering 10K, 5K, and Youth Run distances. This December event, approaching its fiftieth year, is designed for families, casual runners, and participants seeking a festive atmosphere near the beach. The course follows streets in Santa Monica and Venice, featuring a significant portion along the Venice Beach boardwalk. The Christmas theme contributes to the event's appeal, suggesting participants will likely wear costumes and bring seasonal enthusiasm, beyond just competitive racing.

The Holiday Half Marathon & 5K takes place over a weekend in December at Marine Stadium in Long Beach, California. The schedule features a half marathon, a Christmas Light or Glow 5K, and the Penguin Waddle Kid's Run, catering to those seeking a longer race and families wanting a shorter holiday activity. The event is in its 18th year and recently relocated to the Marine Stadium site. Participants completing multiple races receive a Golden Snowflake Medal. The Christmas Light 5K received positive comments during its initial year, and the organizer emails race photos once results are published.

The Jingle Bell Jog at Dos Vientos is a timed 5K and 10K run-walk held at Dos Vientos Community Park in Newbury Park, California. The course utilizes the streets in and around Dos Vientos. The 5K is a relatively flat route suitable for families, walkers, and runners seeking a less challenging option. The 10K presents a more demanding course, incorporating several moderate climbs. Awards are given to the top three male and female finishers in each distance. All participants receive a race T-shirt and a custom 24-ounce Specialized water bottle. Parking and restrooms are available at the park. Dogs are not permitted at the event.