5K Races and Fun Runs for NJ Kids and their Parents

This ridiculously mild winter has been running heaven, not too cold or too wet. I mean, I didn't run of course, but I assume those of you that do this sort of thing felt heavenly. Now that we are heading into what will either be a gorgeous spring or blizzard season, it's time to use all those great work-outs and your natural altruism, to get your 5k on. Lest you worry that this might be precious time away from your children, fear not, all of these also feature family fun runs for our active NJ kids, and one even comes with a baseball game. So lace up! Gird your quadriceps! Tie your tot's sparkly laces! Convince your mate that they love running, too! Run, mamas, run.

2nd Annual De-Feet Breast Cancer 5K Walk/Run (Lake Como) 

This 5k walk/run is sponsored by the Mama Mare Breast Cancer Foundation with proceeds going to biomedical research, and support services for breast cancer patients and their families. Saturday, March 24th. $30 after March 13th for online and same day registration. Kids fun run is FREE! Registration and check in begins at 7:30.

Atlantic County Utilities Authority - Earth Day 5k Race/1 Mile Fun Run (Egg Harbor Township)

The proceeds from this race benefit the American Heart Association. This race is also part of a greater Earth Day celebration that includes tours of the wind farm and recycling center, live animal shows and petting zoo. Sunday, April 22.  $10 for advanced registration, $15 after April 20th. You can also register as a family (limit 6 entries) $20.00 for advanced registration,  $25 after April 20th. Registration and check in begins at 7:30 am.

First Annual New Jersey Miles with Moms 5K Run/Walk and Fun Run (Clark)  

The proceeds from this race benefit the Mothers' Center of Central NJ, whose mission is to provide outreach, support and education to mothers in Central New Jersey. Saturday, April 28. $15-20 for online and advanced registration ($25 for same day registration) for the 5k. The fun run is FREE for children with a registered adult participant. Registration and check in begins at 8 am.

Spring Stampede 5K and Fun Run in Gazebo Park (Chester)

Proceeds from this race help fund the development of innovative programs for the public schools of Chester, NJ. Saturday, May 12th. Online registration will open soon. $20 ($25 for same day registration) for the 5k, and $15 ($10 for same day registration) for the 1-mile fun run. Registration and check-in begins at 7:30 am. 

The Fred d’Elia Memorial Day Ridgewood Run (Ridgewood) This 'Family Day at the Races' is entering its 35th year. Monday, May 28th. Registration begins April 1st — there is NO same day registration for the 5K. $29 for the 5K. $5-$15 for the 1-mile fun run. The 5K begins at 10:15. The fun run begins at noon. Arrive 30 minutes before your event and check in at the registration tent.

Barnabas Health BlueClaws 5K and Fun Run (Lakewood)

This event is run on and around FirstEnergy Park, where the Lakewood BlueClaws play, and will be followed by a game at 1:05, FREE to all runners. Registration is $20 for the 5K race and $10 for 1-mile fun run through April 1st, and $25 and $15 after April 1st. Registration and health fair begin at 9 am.

The Cumberland County College 5K Fun Run/1 Mile Walk (Vineland)

This race is sponsored by the CCC Alumni, with proceeds helping provide affordable educations to all Cumberland County residents. Saturday, April 28. $20 ($25 for same day registration) for the 5k, and $10 for  the kid friendly campus walk.  Registration and check-in begins at 8 am. 

If none of these races suit your needs for emotional release in the form of exercise or you just can't do it on that date, there are so many more! Check out this super site for all upcoming races.