A perfect Christmas Day includes a feast of comfort and food. There’s no better way to better prepare — and feel less guilty — about the indulgence, than to participate in the Jingle Bell Jog on Christmas Eve.
It’s the 15th year for the 5K jaunt or 3K walk around Iola streets, sponsored by Thrive Allen County.
The gun sounds at 1 p.m. on the north side of the courthouse square.
The Iola tradition is more of a time for people to visit with friends than to beat the race clock. Each participant is given bells to tie onto their shoes, so they can “jingle all the way,” said Damaris Kunkler, Thrive program director. Frequently holiday attire is worn including Santa hats and brightly colored clothes. Entire families use the jog as a way to make holiday memories, including lots of picture-taking.
“The jog is a fun run, the perfect kind of run,” Thrive Executive Director David Toland said. The jog won’t be chip timed. The jog route will be the same as the Mad Bomber Run, weaving through Highland Cemetery on north Cottonwood and then back on Washington Avenue.
The registration fee is $15 and participants will receive a basic T-shirt. For $5 more, participants can receive a dri-fit tech T-shirt, for adult sizes only.
To be guaranteed a shirt, participants must register by today.
If participants “like” the Thrive Allen County Facebook page, or if they already have, they will receive $2 off their registration fee.
After the jog, hot cocoa and gingerbread will be provided at the finish line.
For more information contact Thrive Allen County at (620) 365-8128 or register online at www.jinglebelljog.eventbrite.com.
Jingle Bell Jog all in the spirit of Christmas
