The Drumstix Dash 8K is a challenging post-Thanksgiving charity race held at scenic Burke Lake Park each year on the Saturday following Thanksgiving. The annual community event, which also includes a family fun run and walk, benefits Housing & Community Services of Northern Virginia (HCSNV), a Northern Virginia 501(c)(3) charity that works to combat homelessness in Fairfax County.

Proceeds from the race help fund HCSNV’s services to financially-challenged homeowners and renters. These services include budget counseling, affordable housing search, crisis intervention, and emergency financial assistance.

Last year’s Drumstix Dash attracted 419 runners and walkers from 18 states and raised $10K to help the area’s needy stay in their homes.

This year’s Drumstix Dash will be held on Saturday, November 24. The race features an 8K run and a one-mile family-friendly fun run and walk, refreshments and awards. All registered runners will receive a goody bag and a race shirt. Prizes will be awarded to top runners overall, and also to the top three men and women in various age groups. The race begins at 9 a.m. Capital Running Company will provide chrono-track timed race services. A training program is available for runners who want help preparing for the race.

The Drumstix Dash is a great way to network and to work off some Thanksgiving turkey and stuffing.

You can learn more about HCSNV and the Drumstix Dash at www.hcsnv.org.