For the second year, my mom and I participated in the festive “It’s a Wonderful Run” 5k. This USATF Certified 5k race is a part of the “It’s a Wonderful Life” Festival in Seneca Falls, NY – believed to be the inspiration behind the movie’s fictional town of Bedford Falls.
While the connection between Seneca Falls and Frank Capra’s “It’s a Wonderful Life” has never been officially confirmed, the town has dubbed itself “The Real Bedford Falls” due to the undeniable similarities. For one weekend every December, the town transforms into the 1940s-era fictional town to celebrate the holidays and the movie’s themes of small-town life, success and failure, and most importantly, friends and family.
The race begins at 4:40 pm, right around sunset, and takes runners through the historic town illuminated by Christmas lights and holiday displays. The starting line is on the famous Bridge Street Bridge, which takes the name “George Bailey Bridge” for the event as a nod to the film. The atmosphere is festive and Christmassy, and despite drawing over 4,000 registered runners this year, one can’t help but feel like they are a part of a small-town family community.
Along the 3.1 mile course, historic homes are decorated for the season and front lawns are filled with spectators having bonfires and cheering on the runners and walkers – everyone wishing “Merry Christmas” as you pass by. One home even offered participants shots of beer and Baileys Irish Cream – an appropriate choice given the event’s theme!
Since my mom and I are both big fans of the movie, we decided to make the event a new mother-daughter holiday tradition. Last year was my mom’s first time running a 5k and I set a new personal best for the distance. This has been an off year for my running, so rather than trying for a new PR, I decided to use the race time to spend with my mom. I’m glad I did, as I had great time encouraging her to push herself while taking in the joyous event. I can run a 5k any time I want, but time spent with family is precious and priceless. After all, that was Frank Capra’s message in “It’s a Wonderful Life” and a valuable lesson during the holidays and all year long.
Dear George:-
Remember no man is a failure who has friends.
Thanks for the wings!
Love,
Clarence
Do you have any special holiday traditions? Share them in the comments below! If you enjoy reading, please subscribe via email to keep up-to-date with my adventures and happenings!
Keep exploring,
Alli Mincher 
Looks like some fun holiday runs! It’s been a great December for running (in Boston at least!). Good luck and have fun!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! It’s definitely been a great December for running here as well – we usually have a least some snow by now. I hope you can continue to enjoy the mild weather!
LikeLike
What a fantastic idea. Sounds like a great event, full of festive spirit. It’s lovely that you spent quality time with your Mum.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s definitely something we look forward to every year now!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I had never heard this about Seneca Falls – but I love It’s a Wonderful Life. Perhaps I’ll have to take a trek there at some point to check out the town!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s such a nice town! Definitely worth a visit!
LikeLiked by 1 person