
Did you know the city of Columbus has a long and interesting history that can be told through its iconic signs? It's true! Next time you're itching to get out of the house, we suggest taking a drive around so you can see some of these historic signs and buildings for yourself.
Follow this list in order and you'll have the perfect driving tour. Let's get started!
153 East Main St. Columbus, OH 43215
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It's easy to spot the verticle red and white sign adorning the outside of Hawk Galleries. This retail art gallery was founded in 1986 and moved to this 5,000 square-foot location in 2002. It continues to be an icon in the culturally rich area of downtown Columbus.
Here you'll find museum-quality works of art made by world-renowned artists working in a variety of mediums including glass, sculpture, wood, metal, and paintings.
240 S. Fourth St. Columbus, OH 43215
The original Littel Palace Restaurant was a staple of downtown Columbus for decades. When the location was purchased by new owners in 2010, they decided to keep the name, in part, because of the recognizable neon sign. It reads "Little Palace | Food | Liquor" with an arrow adorned with the word "Restaurant" pointing towards the entrance.
The restaurant itself is incredibly popular among locals and is also a "must visit" spot for tourists. From the 1960s look to the delicious selection of American, Greek, Italian, and other ethnic dishes, this locally-owned restaurant and bar has more than earned its stellar reputation.
11 W. State St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The classic vertical sign adorning the Ho-Toy restaurant is easy to spot. It features a top that resembles a Chinese pagoda, large Asian-style lettering that reads "Ho Toy," and the words "Chinese & American Food & Cocktails" along the bottom.
The Ho-Toy restaurant, which was originally opened back in 1959, used to be located on Town Street. It moved to its current location, which was previously a two-story Burger King restaurant in 1980. The decor still has a 1980s flair and shows its Burger King roots including the original Formica counters, vinyl booths that are now covered in plastic sheeting. and faded paint, carpeting, and flooring that still bears the original Burger King primary colors.
Despite its unassuming interior, the restaurant is known for serving fresh and delicious Americanized Cantonese Chinese comfort food and Thai cuisine.
21 E. State St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The Planters Peanut sign is one of the most notable historical signs in Columbus. It features the "peanut man" that has long been part of Planter's marketing and the words "Planters Peanuts" in red neon.
The sign has been in this location since it was erected in 1936 by the Planters Peanut company. At the time, there were over 300 of these shops across the country. They were sold to independent owners in the 1960s. Today, there are only about a dozen of them left, including this one located on E. State St. This nostalgic candy shop now sells roasted nuts, a variety of chocolates, and themed candy.
36 E. State St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The 2,791-seat Ohio Theatre has been entertaining the people of Columbus since 1928. The building features stunning architecture and design, including the gorgeous original marquis. This red neon sign continues to be a local landmark to this day.
73 E. Gay St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The historic building that houses the Tip Top is a long-standing icon located in the heart of downtown Columbus. The black and white sign reads "Tip Top" in large lettering and "Kitchen and Cocktails" along the bottom. Most notably, the "I" in Tip is topped with a bright red cherry.
This neighborhood bar offers "Ohio Comfort Food," delicious whiskey drinks, and microbrews on draft. They also have pinball machines, 22 beers on taps, and always offer PBR drafts for just two bucks.
34 W. Broad St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The 2,695-seat Palace Theatre was designed to resemble the Palais de Versailles in France. The inside is adorned with a grand staircase, fountain, mural, and stunning chandeliers. The red neon sign that reads "Columbus Palace Theatre" is impossible to miss!
50 W. Gay St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The mid-century modern Beacon Building was built in 1957 and the huge teal blue and red sign remains a focal point of the area today. This beautiful six-story building faced in polished stone was purchased by the city in 1979 for $2 million. Today it's home Columbus' Public Service Department. Plans are currently underway to relocate the department, and, once this is complete, the building will be sold to a private party.
161 N. High St. Columbus, OH 43215
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It's hard to miss the giant beer glass sign with the words "Elevator Brewery & Draught Haus" along the side of the Elevator Brewing Co. This beautiful historic restaurant and brewery was founded in 1999 by a father-and-son team.
They've been producing award-winning craft beer for over 20 years and the menu features modern American fare that you're sure to love. When you're done enjoying your meal, you'll want to stick around to play a game on one of their three classic dartboards or restored antique billiard tables. Their eight-foot table dates back to 1891 while the seven-foot table was made in 1884!
59 Spruce St. Columbus, OH 43215
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The original North Market, located in downtown Columbus, is a 144-year-old market that houses an eclectic mix of over 30 independently owned small businesses. Here you'll find fresh produce, seafood, meat, poultry, specialty items, fresh flowers, prepared foods, and unique gifts.
Its huge neon sign, which reads "North Market" and is adorned with a sunshine pattern around the letter "O," is another iconic part of Columbus history.
Which of these iconic buildings will you visit first?

You probably know Cincinnati is Ohio's largest metropolitan area, the setting for classic sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati and home to the second oldest zoo in the country. Originally settled in 1788, Cincinnati has a long and rich history yielding a number of fascinating stories.
Here are 11 fun facts to know and tell about Cincinnati. Which ones are new to you?
100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Cincinnati has an honored place in major league baseball history as home of the first all-professional team, the Red Stockings, better known as the Reds. Their first game took place on May 4, 1869, a 45-9 blowout win against the Great Westerns, also based in Cincinnati. The Reds have made it to the World Series nine times and emerged victorious five times, most notably with back-to-back wins in 1975 and 1976 during the heyday of the "Big Red Machine."
7934 Alexandria Pike, Alexandria, KY 41001
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Skyline and Gold Star may be more well-known names today, but Cincinnati's iconic version of chili originated at Empress Chili. Brothers Tom and John Kiradjieff, immigrants from Macedonia, started selling their uniquely seasoned meat sauce in 1922. Cincinnati chili can be enjoyed in a bowl, on a bed of spaghetti or atop a hot dog, with your choice of onions, beef or cheese. While there are now more than 150 chili spots around the city, Empress Chili remains "the first edition of a Cincinnati tradition."
Third St. and Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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More than 25 percent of Cincinnati residents share a German heritage, which they proudly celebrate each September at Zinzinnati. More than half a million people attend this three-day event, making it the largest Oktoberfest celebration in the country. Approximately 80,000 bratwurst, 25,000 potato pancakes, and 23,000 soft pretzels are consumed while guests enjoy live musical entertainment, a wiener dog race, and the world's largest chicken dance. Every year, the mayor of Munich issues an official decree pronouncing Zinzinnati as the largest Oktoberfest celebration outside of Germany. Zinzinnati 2020 is scheduled for September 20-22.
At its founding in 1788, the settlement was named Losantiville by John Filson, the original surveyor. "Losantiville" is a hybrid of terms from four different languages meaning, "the city opposite the mouth of the (Licking) river." Two years later Arthur St. Clair, governor of the Northwest Territory, decided he didn't care for the name. He changed it to Cincinnati as a tribute to the Society of the Cincinnati, a group of Revolutionary War veterans which included St. Clair. The Society took its name from legendary Roman statesman Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus.
1801 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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More than 100 years ago, there were nine public markets located around Cincinnati. Findlay Market is the only one still standing today. The market is named after General James Findlay and his wife Jane, whose estate donated the land on which it's built. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, Findlay Market welcomes upwards of one million visitors annually. More than 40 vendors make up the year-round open market, and they're joined by dozens more in the outdoor farmers market running weekends from April through November. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.
962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Since 1959, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park has been producing first-rate professional theater from its scenic hilltop location. Actors who have graced its stage include notable names such as Patty Duke, Anthony Perkins, Lynn Redgrave, Cicely Tyson, and Sam Waterston. In 2004, Playhouse was recognized with a Tony Award for Best Regional Theater. That accolade was followed up three years later with a second Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical for the production of Company.
Before he reached the age of 30, Steven Spielberg revolutionized the film industry and ushered in the summer blockbuster with Jaws. His Hollywood career has been full of commercial and critical success, but few people know that Spielberg's roots are in Cincinnati. The Spielberg family came to the city in the 1900s when Steven's paternal grandparents emigrated from Ukraine, and he was born in Cincinnati on December 18, 1946.
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Underneath the streets of Cincinnati sits a network of incomplete tunnels just over two miles long. Construction on the framework of the Cincinnati Subway began in the early 1900s. Intended to upgrade the city's streetcar system, the subway project fell victim to spiraling costs and political in-fighting. Activity was indefinitely canceled in 1928, and the project has remained abandoned.
33 W. Maple Ave., Fort Mitchell, KY 41011
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High on the list of offbeat attractions is Vent Haven Museum, dedicated to showcasing the art of ventriloquism. The museum was founded by a man with the equally quirky name of William Shakespeare Berger, affectionately known as W.S. Berger was a self-made success in business, literally working his way from the mailroom to president of the Cambridge Tile Company, but he was fascinated by ventriloquism. After serving as president of the International Brotherhood of Ventriloquists for more than 20 years, Vent Haven Museum was created to preserve and share Berger's incredible collection of ventriloquist dummies. Tours are conducted seven days a week from May through September by appointment only.
Before the days of electronic and print media, town criers held the responsibility of sharing news throughout a community. While this tradition has all but disappeared, the Cincinnati village of Mariemont maintains one of approximately 14 town criers in the United States. The post is currently held by Dr. Bob Keyes, who "moonlights" as a geriatrician and co-director of the Christ Hospital Health & Aging Center. Keyes' duties include opening town meetings and leading the Memorial Day parade.
315 W. Court St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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In 1853, Cincinnati led the way for the country by establishing the first professional fire department. The Cincinnati Fire Museum documents the history of firefighting in Cincinnati with exhibits, events, and interactive displays. Their innovative fire safety education program simulates an actual fire event in a home while staff members identify risks and demonstrate ways to protect yourself. Museum hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for kids aged 7-17.
What's your favorite episode of WKRP in Cincinnati?

Big-screen TVs, surround sound, and streaming brought movie-watching from theaters into homes. Classic drive-in theaters combine technology and privacy to offer the best of both worlds.
As we transition to the "new normal," drive-in theaters may provide the perfect solution to safely enjoying a night out. Now that drive-ins have received the green light, check out these fun-filled theaters around Northeast Ohio and other parts of the state. Visit the website or Facebook pages for current schedules.
33395 Lorain Rd., North Ridgeville, OH 44039
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The name may have a nostalgic 1950s feel, but don't let that fool you. Thanks to modern theater enhancements, Aut-O-Rama Drive-In has remained up-to-date with the times. As the first Cleveland-area drive-in to offer two screens, Aut-O-Rama was also one of the local theaters to lead the way in transitioning from speakers to in-car audio. Outside food is not allowed, but the extensive concession stand menu includes vegan and gluten-free options for those with special dietary needs.
2736 State Route 59, Ravenna, OH 44266
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Midway Twin Drive-In has the distinction of being designed by Jack Vogel, a renowned architect whose drive-in theater drawing collection is in the Library of Congress. While the theater's original screen tower was destroyed by a storm in 2000, the new tower carries Vogel's trademark diamond-and-flags sign. Head to Midway's FunFlick page on their website to purchase admissions, reserve parking spots, and order swag such as t-shirts and keychains.
959 Broad St., Wadsworth, OH 44281
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When Blue Sky Drive-In opened in 1947, the theater featured a wooden screen with large speakers attached to either side. Legend has it the sound could be heard six miles away in neighboring Doylestown. The street side of the screen was covered with twinkling stars that drew people to drive by just to see them. Unlike Magic City Drive-In, its sister theater, Blue Sky has only one screen, but both drive-ins are run with the same focus on customer service and quality entertainment.
5602 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Barberton, OH 44203
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Kids who came to Magic City Drive-In with their families in the 1970s and 1980s are now bringing their own little ones to share one of their favorite experiences. Digital projection and FM stereo sound are modern amenities, but visitors still find the same "magic" they enjoyed when they were young. A $5 permit fee is charged for bringing in outside food, but it can be applied to a minimum $15 purchase of additional snacks and beverages at the concession stand.
9735 State Route 250 NW, Strasburg, OH 44680
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Lynn Drive-In, opened in 1937, holds the honor of being Ohio's longest-running drive-in theater. As if that weren't enough, the Lynn is also #2 among continuously operating drive-ins around the world. Throughout its history, Lynn Drive-In has been owned by a succession of families. In fact, the drive-in is named after the daughter of Ray McCombs, who partnered with his father-in-law to run the theater in the 1940s. The concession stand accepts credit and debit cards, but admissions are cash only, so don't forget to stop at the ATM on the way.
2420 E. Main St., Lancaster, OH 43130
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In 1994, after working at the theater for 30 years, current owner Walt purchased Skyview Drive-In from founder Carlos Crum, maintaining a welcome sense of tradition. Walt's wife upgraded the concession stand to include a more extensive selection than usually found at drive-ins. Choose from treats such as pork tenderloin sandwiches, quarter-pound burgers, apple dumplings, and funnel cakes. Please note that you're free to bring in your own food except for pizza, which is available on the theater's menu.
3050 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43207
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Located, appropriately enough, on the south side of town, South Drive-In is the last remaining drive-in theater in Columbus. Opened in 1950, the South is one of several regional drive-ins built by the Yassenoff family. Over the years, the theater has survived a tornado and incorporated high-tech improvements to continue serving the community. For your convenience, South Drive-In is adding online ordering for concessions, with a text alert when your order is ready for pickup.
1816 Old Oxford Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013
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The website of Holiday Auto Theater proudly proclaims, "60 Years of Drive-In Fun!" In particular, their concession stand is so good that it's remained open on weekends to serve carry-out food. Tops on the list is the Family Combo, which easily feeds up to four people. The combo includes a personal pizza, burger, fries, two hot dogs, popcorn, candy and four drinks for $38.75.
What are your favorite memories of drive-in theaters?

Having access to fresh, healthy food is more important than ever. As we're confined to our homes for the majority of our weeks, it's vital that we receive the nutrition we need to preserve our wellbeing as our physical activity decreases. With warm weather right around the corner, our local farmers markets are reopening to provide our families, friends, and neighbors with the freshest local produce available. Thankfully, the following markets around Columbus are now offering delivery and no-contact pickup options to keep everyone safe.
Ohio History Connection, 800 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, OH 43211
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The Clintonville Farmers Market is currently open each Saturday from 9 am to noon until November. In a new location at the Ohio History Connection, Clintonville's market is only operating on a pre-order basis. You can order all of your food online, including produce, meats, and bakery goods, and schedule a pick up your order at the Ohio History Connection. You won't even need to leave your car, as representatives from each farm will place your items in your trunk.
2340 W. Dublin Granville Rd., Columbus, OH 43235
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As is the case with other retail establishments around Columbus, most farmers markets are closed to foot-traffic. However, the HTH Farm Market is one of the many farmers markets enabling you to purchase your fresh goods online through the rest of the year. For the price of a cup of coffee, HTH Farm Market will deliver to homes within a radius of five miles. If you'd prefer to pick up your order in person, you can do so from noon until 3 pm every afternoon.
The Shops at Worthington, 7227 N. High St., Worthington, OH 43085
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If you want to enjoy the freshest produce from the Worthington Farmers Market, you'll need to get an early start. From now until October, you can preorder your items through each individual farmer, producer, or vendor and pick them up in a single trip. Simply head down to Worthington Community Center between 9 am and noon on Saturdays to have your order placed directly into your truck, free of contact.
13246 Wooster Rd., Mt. Vernon, OH 43050
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If you haven't heard of Yellowbird Foodshed, you're in for a treat. This foodshed works with more than 100 food producers from Ohio to deliver fresh, sustainably grown produce to families throughout the state. All of their items are available for delivery. However, we suggest that you choose one of their subscription boxes so that you can receive regular boxes of the freshest in-season produce without ever leaving home.
Granville High School, 248 New Burg St., Granville, OH 43023
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As of right now, the Granville Farmers Market is one of the few farmers markets that will continue to be an in-person, foot-trafficked market. Held at the Granville High School parking lot, the Granville Farmers Market insists that all visitors practice social distancing by sending only one member from each household and remaining 6 feet apart from other shoppers. Please don't bring pets, point to each item that you wish to purchase, and don't attend if you're showing any symptoms of a fever or other illness. Keep in mind that you can also arrange for alternative pickups by contacting each vendor directly.
36 E. Canal St., Newark, OH 43055
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Another of the only farmers markets still allowing in-person shopping, the Canal Market District Friday Farmers Market will continue with new social distancing protocols in place. You're encouraged to wear face masks, only send one person from each family, remain 6 feet away from other shoppers, and refrain from attending if you're feeling unwell. Staff will be limiting the number of people inside the market at any given time to prevent overcrowding and customers will move through the market on a dedicated path to streamline the process. Similar to the Granville Farmers Market, you can connect with these local vendors directly if you want to arrange other pickup options.
Grove City Town Center, 4069 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123
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The Grove City Farmers Market is a 30-year long tradition that city officials don't want to disrupt. To keep the market functioning while abiding by the best health and safety practices, this market will be a prepay and pickup only market from mid-May until September. More details will be provided as the event nears its opening date of May 16th.
7370 Bell Station Rd., Circleville, OH 43113
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Similar to the Yellowbird Foodshed, the New Century CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is an organization that partners with other local farms to provide subscription-based deliveries to families throughout the Columbus area. You can sign up for a subscription and receive a box of fresh produce on your doorstep.
Fresh, locally grown food is not only healthy for your body, but it's also healthy for our local economy. By purchasing food from our Ohio farms, you fund our community during a critical time and ensure that these natural resources don't go to waste.
Where do you prefer to get your produce around Columbus? Let us know in the comments below and be sure to tell us about any other farmers markets offering pickup and delivery services that we might have missed.

With gyms closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many Northeast Ohio residents are struggling to keep fit. From YouTube videos to push-up and squat challenges, those who want to stay in shape have certainly found some creative outlets to do so.
For runners, a virtual 5K race is a fun and exciting way to enjoy the camaraderie of race day while still staying socially distant. How does it work? You simply register ahead of time, then, on the day of the race, run or walk in any place you choose. Your medal will be shipped directly to you!
Sound like fun? You're in luck! There's certainly no shortage of upcoming virtual races in the local area. For each of these races, you can complete your run (or walk) any time between the start and end dates. Unless otherwise noted, you may also choose between a 1-mile, 5K, 10K, half-marathon, or marathon run. You'll time yourself, and race officials will ask you to send them your time. The prices include your medal, race bib, and shipping.
Now that you know how everything works, here are a few you may want to check out.
Sunday, May 10th at 7 pm - Sunday, May 31st at 9 pm
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This very special virtual race is being held in honor of Zach Sobiech, who wrote the song "Clouds" when he was dying of osteosarcoma at only 18 years old. The cloud-themed medal was made to honor his legacy and his "anthem of hope."
This race is held in May, to celebrate Zach's birthday, and 15% of the registration fee will be donated to the Zach Sobiech Osteosarcoma Funds.
Saturday, May 16th at 7 pm - Sunday, May 31st at 9 pm
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You might not be able to give out real hugs right now, but you can virtually celebrate National Hug Day. For this race, 15% of the fees will go to the HUGS (Help Us Give Smiles) Foundation, Inc., an organization that gives free medical care to children and adolescents who have a cleft palate, cleft lip, microtia, and other facial deformities.
You can also purchase an official race t-shirt or hoodie if you want to show extra support!
Saturday, June 13th at 7 pm - Saturday, August 29th at 8 pm
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Did you know that National Toilet Paper Day is coming up on August 26th? Considering the craziness surrounding this essential product, it's only appropriate that a race is held in honor of it.
A minimum of 30% of your $22 entry fee will go to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund through the World Health Organization. This charity helps provide frontline healthcare workers with essential supplies and supports research to speed the discovery of diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines.
Saturday, June 13th at 7 pm - Wednesday, September 30th at 8 pm
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One of the most essential, and under-recognized workers during the COVID-19 pandemic is the nation's truck drivers. These are the people who ensure that we're able to get food and critical medical supplies to the places that need them. Help support them by registering for the Get Truckin' 5K.
Thirty percent of each registration goes to the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund. For a limited time, you can also purchase a limited-edition t-shirt or hoodie.
Saturday, June 20th at 7 pm - Sunday, August 23rd at 9 pm
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On January 26th of this year, the world lost the great Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna. This race is held in his honor. The distances for this race are slightly different. Choose from a 2-mile, 8K (4.97 miles), or 24K (14.91 miles) run or walk. These numbers were chosen for Gianna's jersey numbers (2, 8, and 24).
At least 34% of the registration cost will be donated to an organization that Bryant was passionate about After School All-Stars. You can also purchase an official t-shirt or hoodie.
Sunday, June 21st at 7 pm - Tuesday, June 30th at 9 pm
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Celebrate the important dads in your life and get a fun superhero medal! Run in honor of Dad, give the medal to him, or purchase an extra one to give as a gift.
The registration is $22 and15% of the fee to Team Hoyt, which works with disabled and physically challenged young people to help build their self-esteem, character, and confidence. If you'd like, you can also purchase a commemorative t-shirt or hoodie.
Saturday, June 27th at 7 pm - Monday, August 31st at 9 pm
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In honor of the 6-foot social distancing recommendations, this race features a medal that reads "We're all in this together, but six feet apart." At least 30% of all proceeds from this race's registration will go toward supporting Feeding America, which supports food banks across the country.
Thursday, August 20th at 7 pm - Mon. Nov. 30th at 9 pm
This race is held in celebration of World Children's Day, which occurs on November 20th. Registration for this event is $22 and 25% of this goes to support Feeding America.
Which of these awesome virtual 5K races are you going to do?