Bring the Heat With Northeastern PA’s Winter Races and Walks
Lace up those sneakers because the running season doesn’t end when the air turns cold. Northeastern Pennsylvania is filled with exciting winter races and walks that keep runners and walkers moving long after the temperatures drop. From festive fun runs and casual community walks to challenging timed races, NEPA’s winter race schedule offers something for every pace and every skill level.
Even in the coldest months, the region delivers plenty of ways to stay active while enjoying Northeastern PA’s stunning winter scenery. Gather your running crew or walking buddies and set out for a full season of invigorating outdoor events. Whether you are chasing a new personal record or simply looking for a refreshing winter outing, these winter races and walks will keep your energy high all season long.
December 13 | Dunmore, PA
The Jingle Bell Jog takes place on Saturday, December 13 at 9 AM at the Greater Scranton YMCA in Dunmore, kicking off the holiday season with a festive 5K run and 1 mile walk. This event supports the Y’s scholarship funding program for low income individuals and families. After you cross the finish line, grab a picture with Santa and enjoy milk and cookies.
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December 13 | Shawnee on Delaware, PA
The Reindeer Run at ShawneeCraft 5K takes place on Saturday, December 13 at 10 AM at ShawneeCraft Brewing Co. in Shawnee on Delaware. Participants can run or walk a snowy course through the Shawnee Inn and Golf Course with chip timed racing, age group awards and a one mile walk option. Every entrant receives a race tee and beer glass.
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December 17 | Forty Fort, PA
The Ugly Sweater Run takes place on Wednesday, December 17 at 6 PM at Valley Running Company in Forty Fort, inviting runners to enjoy a festive three mile holiday fun run. Participants are encouraged to wear their ugliest sweaters or most over the top outfits, with a prize awarded to the most festive look. After the run, everyone can warm up with complimentary hot cocoa and cookies!
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December 31 | Luzerne, PA
The Back Mountain Trail 5K happens on Wednesday, December 31 at 4 PM in Luzerne, offering runners and walkers a beautiful year end route along one of NEPA’s most scenic winter trails. Participants enjoy a pre sunset course and receive a commemorative hoodie with registration. The event raises funds for local nonprofits and first responders.
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December 31 | Bloomsburg, PA
The Bloomsburg YMCA’s New Year’s Eve 5K takes place on Wednesday, December 31 at 8:30 AM at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds in Bloomsburg. The flat, beginner-friendly race course features loops and turns that welcome both casual walkers and competitive runners. Proceeds support the YMCA’s financial assistance program and Community Resource Hub.
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January 1 | Wilkes-Barre, PA
Kick off 2026 with the WVS 41st Annual Informal New Year’s Day Social Run, taking place on Thursday, January 1 at 12 PM in Kirby Park in Wilkes-Barre. This free community tradition hosted by the Wyoming Valley Striders allows runners and walkers to choose any distance along scenic park paths this winter. With no registration required, it offers a welcoming way to start the new year!
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January 10 & February 7 | Scranton, PA
Shiver by the River takes place on Saturday, January 10 and Saturday, February 7 at 10 AM in Scranton, featuring a 5K, 10K or 2 mile walk from the Olive Street Trailhead on the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail. Participants can push themselves in the 10K or enjoy a relaxed winter walk. The scenic trail route makes this a refreshing cold weather challenge.
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February 14 | Shawnee on Delaware, PA
The Cupid’s Chase 5K Delaware takes place on Saturday, February 14 at 10 AM at The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort in Shawnee on Delaware, welcoming runners, walkers, wheelchair users and families for a certified and professionally timed community race. Participants can earn overall and age group awards, enjoy finisher medals and bring leashed dogs along the course.
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February 28 | Berwick, PA
Run For The Cookies begins on Saturday, February 28 at 10:30 AM in Berwick, starting and finishing at Third and Market Street on a 6.2 mile wheel measured course with rolling hills and flat sections. Runners compete for overall and age group awards, each rewarded with fresh baked cookies. This sweet and competitive community race remains a Berwick favorite.
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March 21 & 22 | Lackawaxen, PA
The Two Rivers Marathon Race Festival takes place on Saturday and Sunday, March 21 and 22 in Lackawaxen, offering start times that vary throughout the weekend on a fast Boston qualifying course that begins and ends at 107 Scenic Drive. Participants enjoy a scenic, two-day winter race with finisher medals, race shirts, logo socks and inclusive categories.
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March 22 | Dallas, PA
The WVS Winter’s End 4.5 Mile Run takes place on Sunday, March 22 at 11 AM at Penn State Wilkes-Barre in Dallas, featuring a scenic, rolling course that opens the Wyoming Valley Striders’ fiftieth anniversary year. Chip timing, age division awards and the option to join the Vince Wojnar Triple Crown make this a popular end of winter race.
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Winter Events in NEPA
There's no shortage of ways to get out and about this winter in NEPA. Explore our Northeastern PA events calendar to fill your schedule with cozy activities and snowy adventures.
