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18 running, walking, and fun run events in Ocala, Florida

From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find running, walking, and fun run events and connect with the local endurance sports community.

  • Florida 48 [ultrasignup.com]

    Fri, Nov 28, 2025

    Ultra

    Ocala, Florida, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Viking 5K, 10K, 13.1M, & 26.2M at Ocala, FL (06) [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Feb 07, 2026 at 8:00 AM

    Description

    Race Information

    The race starts at 8:00 AM.

    Packet pickup starts 30 minutes before the race and ends 10 minutes before the race starts.

    All runners must register on RunSignup.

    No on-site...

    Race Information

    The race starts at 8:00 AM.

    Packet pickup starts 30 minutes before the race and ends 10 minutes before the race starts.

    All runners must register on RunSignup.

    No on-site registration.

    Additional Information

    This is a paved course.

    Bathrooms are located by the playground.

    5K & 10K Course (1.56M)

    https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5472606859

    The course is an out-and-back. (3.11M)

    The 5K does the course one time.

    The 10K does the course two times.

    Half Marathon & Marathon Course (1.64M)

    https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5472608341

    The course is an out-and-back. (3.275M)

    The Half Marathon does the course four times.

    The Marathon does the course eight times.

    Course Time Limit

    6 hours.

    Finisher Medals

    https://usroadrunning.com/FinisherMedals.php

    Shirt and Gear Shop

    https://usroadrunning.com/Gear.php

    Best Costume

    https://usroadrunning.com/BestCostume.php

    Series Points

    https://usroadrunning.com/S.php

    Awards

    https://usroadrunning.com/Awards.php

    Frequently Asked Questions and Information

    https://usroadrunning.com/FAQ.php

    US Road Running

    https://usroadrunning.com

    5k 10k 13.1 Miles 26.2 Miles Run

    4255 SE 58th Ave, Ocala, Florida, 34480, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Valentine's Day 5k [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Feb 14, 2026 at 8:00 AM

    Description

    💖 Valentine’s Day 5K

    Celebrate Valentine’s Day with miles, smiles, and a little friendly competition at the Valentine’s Day 5K — a fun, fast, and family-friendly race that’s perfect for couples,...

    💖 Valentine’s Day 5K

    Celebrate Valentine’s Day with miles, smiles, and a little friendly competition at the Valentine’s Day 5K — a fun, fast, and family-friendly race that’s perfect for couples, friends, teams, and solo runners alike.

    The course is a scenic mix of road and trail, giving you the best of both worlds — smooth pavement for settling into a rhythm and natural trail sections that make the run feel relaxed and fun. It’s a great balance for experienced runners, casual joggers, and first-time racers.

    Sign up before 2/3 to guarantee your race shirt.

    Proceeds from the event help support the Vanguard High School Cross Country Team, so every step you take helps local student-athletes and youth athletics.

    🏆 Awards & Divisions

    Adult Age Group Awards — 3 deep (Male & Female):

    20–24, 25–29, 30–34, 35–39, 40–44, 45–49, 50–54, 55–59, 60–64, 65+

    Youth Age Group Awards — 5 deep:

    0–6, 7–8, 9–10, 11–12, 13–14, 15–16, 17–19

    Sweetheart Division ❤️

    A special team category for one male and one female — the lowest combined time wins.

    (Teams in this division are not eligible for individual age group awards.)

    ⏰ Race Day Info

    • Packet Pickup: Begins at 7:00 AM on race day

    • Family-friendly, stroller-friendly, and spectator-friendly atmosphere

    • A relaxed, welcoming event with something for every type of runner

    Run for love. Run for fun. Run for a great cause.

    We’ll see you on race morning. 💗

    Recently Featured on Only in Ocala - Check it Out!

    3.1 Miles 5k Run

    1425 NE 58th Ave, Ocala, Florida, 34470, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Grog & Dog [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Feb 21, 2026 at 4:00 PM

    Description

    🌭🍺 THE GROG & DOG RELAY 🍺🌭

    Run. Chug. Chew. Repeat.

    Get ready for the most absurdly fun race of the year! The Groggin Dog Relay combines speed, teamwork, and questionable nutritional decisions into...

    🌭🍺 THE GROG & DOG RELAY 🍺🌭

    Run. Chug. Chew. Repeat.

    Get ready for the most absurdly fun race of the year! The Groggin Dog Relay combines speed, teamwork, and questionable nutritional decisions into one unforgettable event.

    📍 Infint Ale Works at Midtown Station, with the run course looping around Tuskawilla Park. Most Laps and dogs in 40 minutes.

    📅 Saturday, February 21st

    Race start: 4 PM

    🏃‍♂️🌭🍺 Race Format (How It Works)

    This is a relay race completed by teams of 2-4 runners..

    A team member will complete one leg consisting of:

    Run 1 mile around the park

    Eat 1 hot dog

    Drink 1 beer

    Only after completing all three may the runner tags the next teammate and try to finish as many grogs, dogs, and miles in 40 minutes.

    The final runner finishes the last mile, eats, drinks, and crosses the finish line to glory.

    ⏱Longest distance accomplished wins. If you are solo, we’ll find you teammates or you can attempt the feat of strength!!

    📏 Course Details

    Mile loop around the park (clearly marked)

    Exchange zone located at the brewery

    Eating & drinking must occur inside the designated zone at Midtown Station

    Hot dogs and beer are provided (non-alcoholic beer option available)

    Must finish entire hot dog and entire beer before tagging the next runner

    No dunking hot dogs

    No spilling beer (judges’ discretion)

    Vomiting does not disqualify you… but cleanup is appreciated

    Participants must be 21+ with valid ID

    This is a fun race—unsportsmanlike conduct = HARSH JUDGEMENT

    🏆 Awards

    Fastest Team Overall

    Best Team Name

    Best Costumes

    Most Grogged (fan favorite)

    1 Miles Run

    235 NE Watula Ave, Ocala, Florida, 34470, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Operation Gravel [raceroster.com]

    Sat, Feb 28, 2026 at 7:00 AM

    Description

    Cancelled

    Due to Inclement Weather the ride is not safe unfortunately we are regretfully cancelling the event!

    OPERATION GRAVEL

    Florida’s answer to Unbound starts here.

    Adventure doesn’t wait — and...

    Cancelled

    Due to Inclement Weather the ride is not safe unfortunately we are regretfully cancelling the event!

    OPERATION GRAVEL

    Florida’s answer to Unbound starts here.

    Adventure doesn’t wait — and neither does gravel.

    On February 28, 2026, riders roll out from our Ocala location and straight into one of Florida’s most demanding and rewarding gravel corridors. Operation Gravel isn’t a casual group ride — it’s a test of endurance, preparation, and grit, built for riders who want more than pavement and predictable miles.

    Just like Unbound, this ride is about committing to the unknown.

    You’ll pass through historic Ocala, disappear into the Ocala National Forest, and loop the iconic bombing range, where long, quiet stretches of gravel demand focus, resilience, and smart pacing. No crowds. No shortcuts. Just you, your bike, and the miles ahead.


    Ride Your Pace. Earn the Miles.

    Operation Gravel is a drop-style ride, allowing natural pace groups to form based on ability and ambition. Whether you’re chasing distance, testing fitness, or settling into a long endurance grind, you’ll find your crew — and you’ll earn every mile together.


    It’s built for cyclists who:

    • crave real adventure

    • value self-reliance and community

    • want a challenge worth training for

    • believe gravel is earned, not handed out

    No medals. No hype rides. Just a route that demands respect and rewards commitment.

    Commit to the ride. Commit to the challenge.

    Route Options (Final routes announced closer to event)

    • 50–60 miles — fast, punchy, and relentless

    • 90–100 miles — a true endurance challenge

    🚛 Midway SAG Support

    A fully stocked SAG truck will be positioned mid-route for hydration support, mechanical assistance, and peace of mind — because long gravel miles demand smart support.

    Race Day Parking Information

    Parking is available in three designated areas around our location (see map).

    • $ Paid Parking:

    The area marked with a $ symbol indicates paid parking. Rates are set by the parking operator and are not affiliated with the race.

    • Free Parking:

    Two additional parking areas are available at no cost and are highlighted on the map.

    👉 Please allow extra time for parking and walking to the start line.

    We recommend reviewing the map in advance and choosing the option that works best for you.

    Cycling Gravel Group Ride Walk

    29 Northeast 1st Avenue, Ocala, Florida, 34470, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • 2026 Run for the Springs [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Feb 28, 2026 at 8:00 AM

    Description

    Winter Trail Run!

    Grab your coworkers & your running shoes and join us for this family-friendly 5K event. Enjoy a children's area, refreshments, & door prizes. Medals will be awarded to the fastest...

    Winter Trail Run!

    Grab your coworkers & your running shoes and join us for this family-friendly 5K event. Enjoy a children's area, refreshments, & door prizes. Medals will be awarded to the fastest runners in each age bracket, & our Traveling Cup will be awarded to the fastest-running team.

    Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

    8:00 AM Start Time

    Silver Springs State Park

    5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488

    The 2026 run will take place at Silver Springs State Park in Ocala, FL. The deadline for guaranteeing a shirt is January 14, 2026.

    5k Run

    5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, Florida, 34488, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Eighth Street Elementary Tradition Trot 5K and Fun Run [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Feb 28, 2026 at 8:00 AM

    Description

    Join us for the Annual Eighth Street Elementary Tradition Trot 5k and 1 mile fun run on Saturday, February 28th at Ocala Citizens' Circle.

    The race will start and finish at Ocala Citizens' Circle....

    Join us for the Annual Eighth Street Elementary Tradition Trot 5k and 1 mile fun run on Saturday, February 28th at Ocala Citizens' Circle.

    The race will start and finish at Ocala Citizens' Circle. Come out and run through Ocala's Historic Downtown scenic neighborhood to support our neighborhood school!

    5k will start promptly at 8 am; awards immediately following; Fun run will begin at approximately 9:15am at Ocala Citizens' Circle following completion of 5k awards.

    Help us support our school's PTO goals of enriching academic experiences, enhancing extracurricular activities, and continued school improvement while enjoying a great run/walk through our downtown neighborhood!

    Register early!!!

    Prices for all races will increase on January 1st, 2026.

    Event details and schedule

    Packet Pickup: Packet pickup for all registered 5k runners and fun run participants will begin at 7:00 am on Race Day at Ocala Citizens' Circle.

    5K entries include:

    5k Awards, prizes and shirt information:

    T-shirt (guaranteed size if registered by 01/15/26)

    Overall, age group Awards, and a goodie bag.

    Fun run entries include: entry bracelet

    1st, 2nd, & 3rd place awards for the following age groups:

    7 & Under

    8 & 9

    10 & 11

    12-14

    15-19

    20-29

    30-39

    40-49

    50-59

    60-69

    70+

    Prizes for:

    Overall Female & Male

    Overall Masters (40+) Female and Male

    1 Miles 5k 3.2 Miles Fun Run Run Walk

    Ocala, Florida, 34471, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Luck of the Leprechaun 5k [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Mar 14, 2026 at 8:00 AM

    Description

    Luck of the Leprechaun 5K – Ocala, Florida | St. Patrick’s Day Run 2026

    Join runners from across North Central Florida for the Luck of the Leprechaun 5K in Ocala, a St. Patrick’s Day weekend race...

    Luck of the Leprechaun 5K – Ocala, Florida | St. Patrick’s Day Run 2026

    Join runners from across North Central Florida for the Luck of the Leprechaun 5K in Ocala, a St. Patrick’s Day weekend race packed with Irish-themed fun, family activities, and festive race swag. This event is ideal for runners, walkers, and families looking for a St. Paddy’s Day 5K in Ocala or a holiday race close to Gainesville, The Villages, and the surrounding region.

    5K Run/Walk – St. Patrick’s Day 5K in Ocala

    Start Time: 8:00 AM

    Entry Fee Includes:

    Soft event T-shirt (guaranteed size until 3/6)

    St. Patrick’s Day–themed race bib

    Custom finisher medal

    Scenic course through Baseline Park

    Awards

    This year we're recognizing MORE runners than ever before! In ADDITION to our standard 3-deep awards in 5-year age groups, we're adding these overall categories:

    Overall Winners (Male & Female)

    1st Prep (18 and Under)

    1st Masters (40+)

    1st Grand Masters (50+)

    1st Senior Grand Masters (60+)

    1st Veteran Masters (70+)

    Family-friendly atmosphere

    Perfect for seasoned runners chasing a PR, first-timers, and anyone searching for a fun Ocala St. Patrick’s Day run to celebrate the holiday.

    Kids’ 1-Mile – Irish Eyes Are Mile’ing Fun Run

    Start Time: 9:30 AM

    Entry Options:

    $10 – Run only

    $15 – Run + T-shirt

    A great way for kids to join the holiday fun and earn their own race keepsake. Ideal for families wanting a St. Paddy’s Day kids race near Ocala.

    1 Miles 5k Fun Run Run Walk

    4255 SE 58th Ave, Ocala, Florida, 34480, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Sheltair Run The Runway 5K [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Mar 21, 2026 at 7:00 AM

    Description

    Sheltair and the Ocala International Airport are excited to announce the 4th Annual – Sheltair Run the Runway 5k taking place on March 21, 2026! The 5k will benefit local heroes within the community....

    Sheltair and the Ocala International Airport are excited to announce the 4th Annual – Sheltair Run the Runway 5k taking place on March 21, 2026! The 5k will benefit local heroes within the community.

    This family-friendly event promotes health, community engagement, and local impact, while showcasing Ocala International Airport as a vibrant community asset. This year's recipient, we are honored to support the Horse Protection Association of Florida, an organization dedicated to equine rescue, rehabilitation, education, and adoption. To learn more about the Horse Protection Association, go to www.hpaf.org.

    This event is not only an opportunity to support our local heroes at the Horse Protection Association but also a chance for you to participate in a unique and exhilarating experience. Picture yourself running or walking along the airport runway, surrounded by the impressive aircraft sights and the buzz of aviation.

    Details for the 4th Annual Run the Runway 5k:

    Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026

    Location: Ocala International Airport – 1200 SW 60th Avenue, Ocala FL 34474

    Start Time: 7:00am

    Registration is now open, so don't miss out on securing your spot.

    Whether you're a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or simply someone who wants to support a great cause, we welcome you to join us for this memorable event. Let's unite to show our gratitude to the heroes in our community, the Horse Protection Association of Florida, for their unwavering dedication, who collectively make a meaningful impact on equine rescue, rehabilitation, education, and adoption.

    Let's lace up our sneakers, hit the runway, and make a difference together. We look forward to seeing you at the starting line!

    The first 200 registered participants will receive a Sheltair Run the Runway 5k T-shirt. Each finisher will receive accurately chip-timed results from MCM Timing and Results LLC, along with a finisher's medal awarded to the top 200 runners who cross the finish line. Overall, Male and Female awards will also be presented, but we're capping the awards at that level to put even more proceeds toward the Horse Protection of Florida organization!

    Sponsorship opportunities are also available, and you can contact Mike Melton at mike@mcmelton.com .

    Join our fleet by sharing your pictures and videos with us on social media! Tag our account (Sheltair) and use #runwithSheltair . We look forward to seeing all your greatest moments!

    Pre Race Packet Pickup

    Pre Race Packet Pickup will be FRIDAY, MARCH 20th at the 1200 SW 60th Avenue Ocala, FL 34474, from 3:00 PM until 6:00 PM. Packet Pickup will also be held RACE DAY, beginning at 5:45 AM. Use this address for packet pickup - 1200 SW 60th Avenue, Ocala FL 34474.

    AWARDS - the first 200 finishers will receive a finisher's medal, and the Overall Male and Overall Female will also be awarded. Awards are capped at those levels to maximize donations to the race's charitable partners.

    5k Run Walk

    1200 SW 60th Avenue, Ocala, Florida, 34474, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

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