The 6th Annual Gobblin & Hobblin 5K & 3K Fun Run returns Saturday, November 21, bringing a little Thanksgiving fun to BolivarGOBBLIN SMALL before the holiday festivities begin.

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and before everyone settles in for turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie, Bolivar Parks & Recreation is inviting the community to get outside, get moving and enjoy a morning together.

Whether you're a competitive runner looking for another 5K finish, a casual walker or a family wanting something fun to do together, the Gobblin & Hobblin has a place for you.

Two Distances, One Fun Morning

Not everyone wants to run a 5K, and that's part of what makes this event appealing.

Participants can choose between a timed 5K race and a 3K Fun Run, making it easy for families and friends with different fitness levels to participate together.

The race starts and finishes at the Bolivar Recreation & Aquatic Center, with the course traveling through Greenwood Cemetery and the Bolivar Municipal Golf Course.

One of the nice things about this event is that the entire route stays off public streets. Instead of worrying about traffic, participants can concentrate on enjoying their run or walk.

And don't leave the younger family members behind! Strollers are welcome, and even your four-legged running partners can join in as long as they're kept on a leash.

Medals, Raffles and a Little Extra Fun

For those who enjoy some friendly competition, the 5K offers medals to the top three male and female finishers in each age division, along with overall male and female awards.

But you don't have to be one of the fastest runners to enjoy the morning.

After crossing the finish line, participants can stick around for complimentary drinks and snacks and take part in a raffle featuring donated prizes.

It's a great opportunity to spend time with friends, meet other local runners and enjoy a community event before the busy Thanksgiving week begins.

Still Time to Register!

Missed the October 31 shirt registration deadline? You can still participate!

Registration without a shirt is currently:

  • Ages 12 and older: $25

  • Ages 4–11: $15

  • Ages 3 and younger: FREE

Event shirts will also be available for purchase on race day while supplies last.

With affordable registration options and two distances to choose from, this is an easy event to turn into a family outing.

Race Day Details

Saturday, November 21, 2026

Location: Bolivar Recreation & Aquatic Center, 1710 W. Broadway, Bolivar, Missouri

8:00 a.m. — Check-in and packet pickup

9:00 a.m. — 5K and 3K begin

There's still room on the calendar for one more race before Thanksgiving!

Whether you're running for a medal, walking with the family or just looking for an excuse to get outside, the Gobblin & Hobblin is a fun way to kick off the holiday week.

REGISTER TODAY FOR THE GOBBLIN & HOBBLIN 5K & 3K FUN RUN