The Jingle Bell Jog 5K is just a few weeks away. Combining holiday atmosphere, fitness and the spirit of giving, the 12^th annual event will be held Saturday, Dec. 6. Those wishing to participate are asked to meet at 8 a.m. at the Benedum Civic Center. There is no cost to enter.

 

“This is a donation run to support children through The Salvation Army,” said Co-Organizer Mary Ann Renzelli. “Just bring a new, unwrapped toy valued at or around $10.”

 

The 5K course is the same one incorporated by the recent Bridgeport GWFC Juniors’ Trick or Trot 5K. Runners, power walkers and leisure strollers will leave the Benedum Civic Center, pass the city pool/tennis courts, cross Virginia Avenue and follow the walking trail to Bridgeport City Park, where they will take two laps and make the return route.

 

The event averages about 60 runners/walkers of various ages - and even a few dogs, Renzelli said. The atmosphere is extremely festive.

 

“When participants arrive to register, we are playing holiday music – and we fasten jingle bells to everyone's shoe laces. Most will wear their red and white Santa hats,” she said. “It is also a joy to view all the toys donated that morning as they are unwrapped and on display on the table. As the halls are always decked in festive style and the Bridgeport Lions’ Club pancake feed is going on in the lower level of the building, the Benedum Civic Center serves as the ideal base for the event, Renzelli said.

 

All participants will receive complimentary tickets to pancake breakfast. Rounding out the trio of Dec. 6 holiday events is the Bridgeport Christmas Parade, which will commence at 10 a.m. on East Main Street near Oliverio’s Ristorante and proceed across Main Street to the Benedum Civic Center. More details on the parade will follow.

 

For more information about the Jingle Bell Jog, contact Stacy Bolle at 304-842-8955 or Bridgeport Parks and Recreation at 304-842-8240.