New Jersey doesn’t get nearly enough credit as a running state. Beyond the big-city marathons across the river, we have costume halves, cupcake finishes, doughnut runs, and small-town turkey trots — and honestly? Some of my favorite race memories have happened right here at home.
I’m Lara Ziobro, a Berkeley Heights–based runner with four World Marathon Majors stars. These are the New Jersey races I’d hand to any runner — organized by what kind of runner you are (or what kind of morning you’re after).
For your first (or most low-key) half marathon: E. Murray Todd Half Marathon — Lincroft, Monmouth County
If the giant expo-and-corral scene isn’t your thing, this is your race. The E. Murray Todd Half runs through Monmouth County Park on an open course that’s easy to get in and out of — exactly what you want in peak training or for a first 13.1. I ran it with my running buddy Casey during marathon training and PR’d in the middle of a build. Local, friendly, zero fuss.
For the comeback story (and the costume): Halloween Half Marathon — Morristown
This race and I have history. It was my first in-person half marathon back in 2021 — I was undertrained, my knee ached, and I swore I’d do it right someday. In 2026, I finally did: my second-fastest half ever, in a costume-friendly field where going all-out on the outfit is half the fun. If you need a redemption race on your calendar, this is a great one to circle — October in Morristown, spooky season energy, and a course that rewards a second chance.
For running on a sugar high: Cranford Cupcake Run — Cranford
Miles, smiles, and a well-earned cupcake waiting at the finish line. The Cranford Cupcake Run is the kind of community race that reminds you why local running is the best running — approachable, cheerful, and with the best finish-line snack in the state. Bring the kids, bring a friend who’s “not a runner,” and watch them convert.
For the hometown tradition: Gobble & Go 5K — Berkeley Heights
Thanksgiving morning, 9 a.m., 100 Connell Drive — and it benefits the Berkeley Heights VFW, which is reason enough. Turkey trots are the best kind of holiday tradition: earn the feast, see half your town before 10 a.m., and be home before the parade ends. This one’s mine, and I wouldn’t trade it.
For the will-run-for-doughnuts crowd: Montclair Doughnut Run — Montclair
This December will be my second year running this one, and it already holds a special place in our family: last year’s race was our first Doughnut Run together — and my daughter’s first race ever. A USATF-certified course in Montclair, the cutest branded hat, and Montclair Bread doughnuts waiting at the finish line. It benefits the Human Needs Food Pantry of Montclair, too. I’m partnering with the race again this year — use code LARA15 for 15% off registration (it closes December 5 at 4 p.m.). December race, holiday energy, doughnuts at the finish. Say less.
The bottom line
You don’t need a lottery, a charity bib, or a flight to have a race worth training for. New Jersey’s local race calendar is full of mornings like these — pick the one that matches your mood, and I’ll probably see you out there.
FAQ
What are the best local races in New Jersey?
Standouts include the E. Murray Todd Half Marathon in Lincroft for a low-key half, the Halloween Half Marathon in Morristown for costumes and fall racing, the Cranford Cupcake Run and Montclair Doughnut Run for food-themed fun, and hometown turkey trots like Berkeley Heights’ Gobble & Go 5K on Thanksgiving morning.
What is a good first half marathon in New Jersey?
The E. Murray Todd Half Marathon in Monmouth County — an open, low-key course with easy race-morning logistics.
Are there themed or food races in New Jersey?
Yes — the Cranford Cupcake Run (cupcake at the finish), the Montclair Doughnut Run (doughnuts, December, benefits a local food pantry), and the Halloween Half Marathon in Morristown (costumes encouraged) are three of the best.
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