Each Thanksgiving weekend, Fifth Street Cross transforms Pennsylvania’s cycling course into a test of grit and camaraderie with the Black Friday 100, taking place Friday, November 28, 2025, from midnight to 4:20 PM EST. Despite its name, this is not a half marathon—but the race includes a 13 mi “half marathon” running option of eight laps around the 1.55 mi FSX loop, alongside longer formats (10 K, 26.2 mi marathon, 50 K, 100 K, 100 mi, and even relay teams or combined run/ride “halvsies”).
The course is the classic Fifth Street Cross circuit—a mix of gravel, grass, and technical cross-course terrain designed for cyclocross and cross-country training. It’s a daylong endurance marathon on loops: expect mud, barriers, rain-or-shine conditions, and festive endurance energy. Entry is $25 (or $22–27.50 depending on platform) plus a 6-pack of your favorite beverage (or a $15–$20 fee to the prize pot if you forget).
Participants can start anytime after midnight; winners are determined by elapsed time, not clock time—so finishing faster than your start matters most. When awards drop at 4:20 PM, expect beer sprays, podium celebrations, and cheered camaraderie rather than formal podium formality. Relays are welcome and encouraged to use baton-style Garmin/Wahoo exchanges.
Nearly 100 endurance athletes have tackled all variations in past years, making it a cult-classic among ultrarunners and cross riders. With low-cost entry, DIY ethos, and a “bring your own beer” prize tradition, it’s equal parts absurd challenge and community fun. Not a typical half—but if you want half-marathon mileage wrapped in ultra-and-cyclocross celebration, this is it.
🌟 Why You’ll Love It
The Black Friday 100 is as much a running and cycling spectacle as a community campfire. Whether you opt for eight laps (13 mi), 100 K, or the infamous 50/50 halvsies (run 50 K + ride 50 K), it’s a challenge wrapped in camaraderie—and fueled by a 6-pack prize tradition. Leave your performance politics at home; this race is about elbow grease, grit, and radically fun endurance. Want tips for lap pacing, gear strategy in weather, or the best starting window? I’m happy to help nerd out on that ultra madness!
