Fall in Tucson means running season.
Yeah, it's still hot during the day, but mornings and evenings are glorious, making it the perfect time to get outside with the family for some fun and exercise.
You read that right. We said fun in the same sentence as exercise. If you think those words don't belong together, you're doing it wrong.
Try out one of Tucson's fall running events. You'll hang out with friends and family, get cool swag, hear great music, dress up and eat free snacks.
And, here's a tip. You don't even have to run. Walking is always allowed. And walking, my friends, is still faster than anybody sitting on the couch.
So, get the kids, lace up and go outside.
The Great Pumpkin Race at Buckelew Farms
The annual Buckelew Farm Pumpkin Festival & Corn Maze, 17000 W. Ajo Way near Three Points.
What: This cross country style 5K winds through the farm and includes part of the corn maze. You'll get free entry into the farm and be eligible for prizes. The family can participate in crafts and buy a pumpkin. There will be pumpkin carving and face painting for a small fee. There's also a FitKidz mile, so even the littles can be in on the fun. All participants are eligible to win prizes.
This race benefits autism awareness in Southern Arizona.
When: 7:30 a.m. Fitkidz Mile; 8 a.m. 5k, Oct. 15
Where: Buckelew Farms, 17000 W. Ajo Hwy
Cost: $20 for the 5K; Free for FitKidz Mile
Register: Click here. You can also register from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Oct. 14 at The Running Shop, 3055 N. Campbell Ave. Race day registration will be available from 6:30 to 7:45 a.m. with cash or check only.
GPP Patrick Taylor Memorial Superhero Fun Run
What: You get to dress up as superheroes for this one-mile or 5K race. As an added bonus, if you get a team together, there's a prize for the most epic superhero-dressed team. There will be superhero activities for kids, a photo booth, photos with guest superheroes and chili from the the annual Tucson Firefighters Association Cook-Off at the finish line.
When: Saturday, Nov. 4, 9 a.m.
Where: Reid Park, 900 S. Randolph Way
Cost: $30 for the 5K; $25 one-miler
Register: Click here
Thanksgiving Cross-Country Classic
Levi Siemens, 4, gets a lift from his uncle David Williams as the crowd of more than 2000 gathers for the races.
What: You'll fell less guilty eating Thanksgiving dinner after you create a caloric deficit hurdling hay bales and jumping over water at this cross country race. Men and women race separately for the 5K. There's also a co-ed a 1.5-mile fun run option. Prizes include turkeys and pumpkin pies. Free swag includes a t-shirt to commemorate the day. All fun-run/walk participants will receive a finisher's ribbon.
When: 8 a.m. women's 5K; 8:45 a.m. men's 5K; 9:30 a.m. fun run, Nov. 23
Where: Reid Park, Ramada 10, Country Club immediately north of 22nd Street
Cost: $22 if you register by Nov. 15; $24 by Nov. 21; $30 race day for the 5K. Register for the fun run for $12 by Nov. 17; $20 on race day
Register: Click here for options
