There's a particular kind of runner who looks at a holiday calendar and sees race dates. If that's you, the District of Columbia has a nice little stretch waiting: four half marathons between mid-November and the weekend before Christmas, all in Washington. Late fall is a good time to chase 13.1 here — the summer heat has finally let go, the city is settling into its quieter season, and a race gives you a reason to keep lacing up when the mornings get crisp and the calendar fills up with everything else. Whether this is your first half or one of many, here's what's on deck, and why each one is worth a look.
Turkey Tumble for Autism 5K, 10K, & Half
Sunday, November 15, 2026 — Washington, District of Columbia
This one lands a couple of weekends before Thanksgiving, which makes it a nice way to get ahead of the holiday rush instead of squeezing training around it. The half shares the morning with 5K and 10K options, so it's an easy race to bring a friend or family member who isn't ready for 13.1 yet — everyone starts the day together and finishes with a story. It's a Solid Pick in our book, and a friendly entry point if you're building toward your first half.
DC Turkey Trot 5K & Half
Sunday, November 22, 2026 — Washington, District of Columbia
Thanksgiving week in the capital, and a half marathon to go with it. If your holiday tradition involves a little movement before the big meal, this is the one that fits the mood. The 5K option keeps it welcoming for newer runners and for anyone who wants a shorter morning, while the half gives you a proper 13.1 to close out your fall training. Another Solid Pick, and a good excuse to make the holiday weekend about more than the plate.
Rudolph's Race 5K & Half
Saturday, December 19, 2026 — Washington, District of Columbia
Mid-December running has its own charm — fewer crowds, cooler air, and a city dressed up for the season. Rudolph's Race puts a half marathon on a Saturday morning, which leaves your Sunday free for the rest of the weekend. The 5K alongside it means there's a distance for the whole crew. If you like the idea of a December goal to keep you honest through the holidays, this is a good one to circle.
Santa's Sleigh 5K & Half
Sunday, December 20, 2026 — Washington, District of Columbia
The very next morning after Rudolph's Race, Santa's Sleigh closes out this little December stretch. Back-to-back weekends of half marathons in the same city is a fun challenge if you're feeling ambitious — and a good reminder that the holiday season doesn't have to mean pressing pause on your running. The 5K option keeps it doable for anyone easing in, and the half is a satisfying way to end the year on a finish line rather than a to-do list.
Pick Your Weekend and Go
Four races, four weekends, one city. If you're chasing your first 13.1, the November races give you a little more runway before the calendar turns. If you're a veteran looking for a reason to keep the streak alive through December, the Rudolph's and Santa's Sleigh pair is right there. Either way, these fill up as race day gets close, so it's worth locking in your plan now rather than the week of.
Want to see everything else on the calendar? Head to our District of Columbia half marathon directory for all the upcoming races, and find the one that fits your season.