Run into 2014: New Year's Eve Races in Central Park & Brooklyn

If running a fun, festive race is your idea of kicking off the new year, there are two events in New York City to check out. The Midnight Run in Central Park, put on by the New York Road Runners, is a longstanding annual event that attracts thousands of runners (many in costume) who run four miles in the iconic park, with DJ music and dancing preceding the race and continuing afterwards. (Before the race, there's a contest to judge the best costumes.) A fireworks show takes soon after the start of the race, which takes place at 11:59 p.m.

The Midnight Run isn't sold out as of 24 hours before the event, but you must register in person at the site (no more online registration). Event-day registration is $60 for NYRR members; $65 for non-members.

Over in Brooklyn, NYCRuns is once again holding its New Year's Eve 5K in Prospect Park at 11:15 p.m. It's said to be the only nighttime race all year in the famed Brooklyn park, and includes complimentary hot chocolate, sparkling cider, and other treats. Race-day registration is $40.

Happy new year!