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Canada’s Most Fun Themed Races
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ShareFrom kilts and animals to chocolate and beer, these themed races are sure to add an element of fun back in your run
If run-of-the-mill road races aren’t doing it for you anymore and you need an extra element of fun (or food) to get you to lace up and toe the starting line, it might be time to sign up for one of these fun themed races.
Oasis Zoo Run (Toronto, ON)Take a 10K or 5K run safari on foot through the gorgeous Rouge Valley and the grounds of the Toronto Zoo during Canada Running Series' Oasis Zoo Run. This popular event, which features chip timing, a corralled start and an excellent selection of post-race food, attracts runners of all ages and abilities, with kids getting a chance to run in the short Kids' Cub Run event. All participants get a zoo animal-themed medal and free admission to the Toronto Zoo, so families can race in the morning and then spend the day exploring one of Canada’s premier zoos. Many runners choose to dress up as their favourite animal for the race, adding to the fun and festive atmosphere at this event.
Perth's World Record Kilt Run (Perth, ON)
Don your best tartan for the annual Perth's World Record Kilt Run, a Guiness World Record holding race for the most runners wearing kilts while running. The event, which is held as part of a local Scottish Festival in Perth, features the Classic 5 Mile Race, the Royal 1 Mile (the world record attempt race) the Kilted Half Marathon and the Kilted Marathon. Runners looking for more of a Braveheart-style challenge can tackle the Warrior Class, which requires runners to carry a sword and shield and take on various obstacles during the race, such as downing a shot of scotch and shooting a bow and arrow. Runners can expect hearty Scottish hospitality at this event, from a Piper's March to the start line to Scottish-themed water stations to Scottish beer and local homemade shortbread at the finish line.
The Chocolate Race (St. Catharines, ON)
If you’re a runner who loves chocolate (so, pretty much every runner), The Chocolate Race in St. Catharines, Ontario should be on your fun-run list. The Chocolate Race features a 5 km and 10 km route option, kids’ fun runs, on-course chocolate-dipped strawberries, and a finish line feast of chocolate truffles, chocolate-filled croissants, chocolate fudge and chocolate–dipped apples, plus chocolate martinis for participants who are of legal drinking age. Aside from a blissful, post-race chocolate coma, participants also get a technical race shirt and finisher’s medal with their registration.
Famous Canadian Beer Run & Festival (Toronto, ON)
The inaugural Famous Canadian Beer Run & Festival at Ontario Place—which happens to be taking place soon on September 18, 2016—is part of the official Toronto Beer Week event. The race is a scenic 5K course through the east and west islands of Ontario Place, and features contemporary art installations along the course that runners and walkers can experience as they make their way to the finish line. After the race, runners get access to a full craft beer and food festival with live entertainment. Food trucks featuring delicious farm-to-truck fare will be on hand for post-run eats, as well as top brewers from Ontario showcasing there best ales. Runners get four beer/beverage chips (good for two 8 oz. beers, or four 4 oz. beer samples) and a commemorative beer stein as part of their race registration fee.
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