29 running, walking, fun run, and other events in Columbia, Maryland
From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find running, walking, fun run, and swimming events and connect with the local endurance sports community.
Columbia
29 events in Columbia-
Thu, Jan 01, 2026 at 7:00 AM
Every Saturday morning, regardless of weather conditions, Striders members meet informally at the Columbia Swim Center for various distances and paces using the roads and pathways within Columbia and the surrounding area. All distances and paces begin sharply and 7am. Nicknamed the Bagel Runs due to the proximity of the Bagel Bin at the start/finish.
-
Sat, Feb 21, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
UPDATE - JAN 27, 2026 AT 3:30 PM
THE 2026 RACE HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FOR FEB 21. READ FULL ANNOUNCEMENT HERE.
All information about this race can be viewed at www.rivalraceseries.com/littlepatuxentriverrun.
Enjoy nature in one of the most beautiful areas of Columbia, MD. Starting and finishing at the Guilford Pratt Truss Bridge, the half marathon (13.1 miles), 10K (6.55 miles) and 5K (3.1 miles) takes place on the Patuxent and Wincopin trails. The course runs along the Little Patuxent and Middle Patuxent River. The terrain is tame compared to many other trail races. This race is appropriate for beginners and intermediate runners. Registration includes a long sleeve shirt, finisher medal and knit gloves.
5K - Saturday, Feb 21, 2026 @ 8:00 AM
Half Marathon & 10K - Saturday, Feb 21, 2026 @ 10:00 AM
Earn 3 finisher medals by registering and completing one of the following:
5K + 10K
5K + Half Marathon
-
Sun, Feb 22, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
The MD-DC RRCA 10 Mile Club Challenge is a one-of-a-kind, restricted entry event. Runners race on behalf of their respective RRCA club and score points cross country style. Awards are given by club, not by runner. You race for the bragging rights of your RRCA club. It is the capstone event within the MD Grand Prix series. An RRCA Presidents meeting is held immediately after the race each year.
The course is a very challenging 10 Miles with a time cutoff of 2 hours, 10 minutes (13mpm pace or better).
It is held at the Athletic Building of Howard Community College in Columbia, MD. It is one of many events that comprise the Maryland RRCA Grand Prix Series.
Howard Community College's Athletic Building is located off Dragon Place, near the campus entrance on Campus Drive & Hickory Ridge Road, Columbia, MD.
-
Thu, Mar 12, 2026 at 6:15 PMSee full details
The Females-in-Training (FIT) program is designed for women of all ages who want to learn to run in a supportive, non-coed environment. FIT is primarily for women who are fairly new to running or coming back to running after a break. The FIT coaches will support and guide you so that you will be ready to run a 5K (3.1 miles) distance by the end of the program. If you are already running, you are welcome to participate if you do not run faster than a 10-minute pace for your typical run. If you are already faster than this pace, we encourage you to try one of the other Striders programs. All runners must be at least 18 years of age to participate in the program.
We want running to be a way for you to meet your fitness goals while having fun and developing friendships with women who are also embarking on their running journey.
The FIT Motto = Fitness, Fun and Friendship
-
Mon, Mar 23, 2026 at 6:15 PMSee full details
Looking to train for a 10 Mile race this year? Join the Howard County Striders for one of their prestigious training programs!
The Next Step 10 Mile Program is for runners of varying abilities. Participants will do a 3-mile time trial at Wilde Lake High School on Monday, March 23rd so coordinators can group participants with those of similar abilities. Weekly training runs will involve a variety of running techniques including speed work and hill work to improve running performance. All runners must be able to run 3 miles before starting the program.
-
Sun, Mar 29, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
The 2nd Annual Atholton 5k and Fun Run
This year's event will take place Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 8:00 am sharp. The race will feature a custom T-shirt (must register by March 14 to guarantee a T-shirt).
5k start time: 8 am
Fun Run: 9 am
This is a certified race course and takes you through the neighborhoods of Columbia.
Please register early, this race usually sells out!
Early packet pickup will take place:
-
Friday, March 27 from 2-4 pm at Feet First.
-
Race day: 6:30 am-7:30 am Atholton Adventist Academy
-
-
Sun, Apr 12, 2026 at 9:00 AMSee full details
Very popular race. Event sells out every year! This race takes place on Columbia Gateway Drive in Columbia, MD. With only one hill on the looped course, this race is relatively flat, FAST and appropriate for all experience levels including first-timers! This race includes both an adult and youth race. All information about this race can be viewed at www.rivalraceseries.com/columbiagatewayduathlon.
Sprint
2 Mile Run | 10 Mile Bike | 2 Mile Run
Youth - 7-10 Yr Old
0.5 Mile Run | 2 Mile Bike | 0.5 Mile Run
Youth - 11-15 Yr Old
0.5 Mile Run | 2 Mile Bike | 1 Mile Run
-
Sat, Apr 18, 2026 at 12:00 AMSee full details
The 19th Annual AFCEA Central Maryland 5K & Family Fun Run/Walk Race for Excellence will be held on Saturday, April 18th at 9AM. A virtual option will also be available.
The AFCEA Central Maryland Chapter (AFCEA-CMD) is a non-profit membership association dedicated to providing an ethical, interactive forum for sharing knowledge and building relationships across government, military, industry and academia.
We accomplish our goal by promoting the continuing education of current IT professionals and supporting the education of future leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Each year our AFCEA-CMD chapter is able to award over $200,000 to qualified students and teachers through scholarships, endowments, and grants.
The 19th Annual AFCEA-CMD 5K & Family Fun Run/Walk is an uplifting, family-oriented, community event that benefits AFCEA’s Central Maryland STEM Scholarship Fund.
Join over 1,000 participants and spectators on a beautiful April day to take part in this run/walk!
All event activities will take place in Columbia, MD, with both the start and finish lines on Columbia Gateway Drive and the After Party (Pub Dog on Stanford Blvd in Columbia) in Columbia, MD.
-
Sun, Apr 19, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
In partnership with the Downtown Columbia Partnership and Columbia Association. Starting and finishing at Colorburst Park in the Merriweather District, this race is appropriate for all level runners. Race registration includes a shirt and finisher medal. Learn more about this race at www.rivalraceseries.com/discoverdowntowncolumbia5k10k.
Pets, baby joggers/strollers, in-line skates, bicycles, and any other non-official wheeled vehicles are prohibited.
Online registration closes Thursday, April 16 - end of day.
In person registration is available during packet pick up times. To view packet pick up times, go to www.rivalraceseries.com/discoverdowntowncolumbia5k10k.
-
Sun, Apr 19, 2026 at 10:00 AMSee full details
Join us for the ultimate test of speed, stamina, and sweet tooth at the Donut Mile Race! It’s not just a race—it’s a sugar-fueled adventure! Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just in it for the donuts, this fun-filled event will challenge you in all the right ways. The 2nd Annual Columbia Donut Mile will take place at Colorburst Park after the conclusion of the Discover Downtown Columbia 5K & 10K on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at 10:00 AM.
ALL information about this event can be viewed at https://www.rivalraceseries.com/donutmile.
-
Sat, Apr 25, 2026 at 8:30 AMSee full details
The Run for Jude 5K honors the memory of Jude Jawhar, who bravely battled Osteosarcoma for four years before passing away at the age of 18. Despite spending much of her teenage years undergoing multiple surgeries and chemotherapy treatments, Jude remained an extremely motivated individual who had hopes of becoming a nurse to help other children going through a similar situation.
To honor her legacy, 100% of participant registrations and donations go directly to the Jude Jawhar Foundation, which supports:
🏥 Johns Hopkins Hospital – Pediatric Oncology Research
Dedicated to advancing treatments and finding a cure for childhood cancer, this organization relies on community donations to fund groundbreaking research and provide critical care for young patients.
🎓 The Jude Jawhar Scholarship for General Nursing at Towson University
Created to celebrate Jude’s dream of becoming a nurse, this scholarship provides financial assistance to future nurses at Towson University, helping them pursue careers in healthcare.
Join us in celebrating Jude’s legacy and making a difference in the lives of children battling cancer.
📲 Follow us on Instagram: @runforjude5k
🏃🏽♀️ Join us on Strava: Run for Jude 5k
-
Sat, May 09, 2026 at 8:30 AMSee full details
Join us for the 2nd Nurses Run, a family-friendly, non-timed 5K and short loop bringing our community together in support of the Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center nurses!
This relaxed 5K is perfect for runners, walkers, families, and participants of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re aiming to jog the course, enjoy a casual walk with friends, or push a stroller along the way, this event is all about fun, fitness, and giving back...NOT the clock.
Proceeds from the event will help our nurses by providing continuing education, trainings, scholarships, and more.
-
Sat, May 09, 2026 at 9:00 AMSee full details
Welcome to the 10th annual Phelps Luck 5K and Fun Run sponsored by the Phelps Luck PTA! Through advocacy, events and fundraising, the PTA strives to provide the support our students, families and staff need to make our PLES community the best it can be for our children to learn and grow. This year’s race will be held at Long Reach High School. 5K participants will run on the Long Reach High School cross country course (combination of grass and pavement).
Fun Run participants will challenge themselves to complete as many laps as they can in 20 minutes. The Fun Run race will be run on grass. All race participants will receive a T-shirt. T-shirts have been upgraded for 2026 to a soft tri-blend fabric!
Packet Pick-Up will be at Road Runner Sports Columbia (6630-C Marie Curie Dr, Elkridge, MD 21075) from 5pm to 7:30pm on Friday, May 8th. Road Runner Sports will be making a very generous contribution to the Phelps Luck PTA for each packet picked up at Road Runner Sports.
Deadline to receive a T-shirt with your registration is 4/23. Registrations after this date will not include a T-shirt!
All children under the age of 18 MUST register AND be accompanied by an adult. Strollers are welcome for the Fun Run, but not permitted on the 5K course.
Questions? Email [email protected]
-
Sun, May 17, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
The Women's Distance Festival 5K (also known as WDF 5K) is a road race exclusively for female participants of all ages. It is held at the Athletic Building of Howard Community College in Columbia, MD. It is one of many events that comprise the Maryland RRCA WDF Series.
Howard Community College's Athletic Building is located off Dragon Place, near the campus entrance on Campus Drive & Hickory Ridge Road, Columbia, MD.
-
Sun, May 31, 2026 at 10:00 AMSee full details
6 Years Strong: Powered by Community!
Founded in 2020, OhanaHC brings people together across different backgrounds to build real relationships and, through mentorship, empowers Howard County students to define and pursue their own version of success.
Now it’s time to bring the community together for a fun-filled walk and run! Enjoy delicious snacks, play exciting games, cheer on your friends and family, and stick around for some special surprises.
This event will take place rain or shine. However, if severe weather conditions prevent us from racing, we will notify you as soon as possible. Please note that all donations and registrations are final.
Packet Pick Up Awards to the top finishers in each age group!
8:30am - 9:45am at race venue, Sunday, May 31, 2026
7000 Columbia Gateway Drive
Columbia, MD 21046 US
-
Sun, Jun 14, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
The Columbia Triathlon is a welcoming, community-focused race set in the heart of Columbia, Maryland. Designed for both first-time triathletes and experienced racers, this event features a pool swim, scenic bike course, and paved-trail run through one of Howard County’s most active and vibrant areas. With Sprint and Super Sprint options, a safe and well-organized course, and an encouraging race-day atmosphere, the Columbia Triathlon is the perfect way to challenge yourself, try something new, and experience the excitement of triathlon close to home. Registration includes t-shirt and finisher medal. This race is sanctioned by USA Triathlon. All RULES apply.
Sprint Distance - 400 Yard Pool Swim | 10 Mile Bike | 3 Mile Run
Super Sprint Distance - 200 Yard Pool Swim | 5 Mile Bike | 1.75 Mile Run
-
Sun, Jun 21, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
Tino's Italian Bistro & Wine Bar is sponsoring a Father's Day 5K for charity to raise funds for the following organizations: Zaching, CCA, Bridges, and Cancer Foundation. They will provide a mini-lunch after the race.
The race will start at 8am and Tino's will be the meeting spot for before and after. The race will start and finish on Red Branch Road by the Children's school. Racecourse map will be available soon.
-
Tue, Jun 30, 2026 at 6:15 PMSee full details
Join the Howard County Striders for one of their prestigious training programs!
Are you ready to take your Half or Full marathon endurance training to the “Next Step”?
If so, you’re in for a fun ride this Summer and Fall!
Please be advised this program is NOT intended for brand new runners, nor for anyone 18 years of age or younger. Rather, the Next Step is to take your running to the Next Level. As such, there are certain minimum essentials required to be successful:
Minimum Base Mileage
If targeting a FULL marathon:Able to run at least 20-25 miles per/week (base mileage).
Able to perform a long run of AT LEAST 10 miles at start of program
If targeting a HALF marathon:Able to run AT LEAST 10-15 miles per/week
Minimum Pace
You need to be able to maintain a pace of 13 minutes or faster pace of constant running. Runners who are unable to maintain this pace on the time trial, may be asked to switch programs to one of a shorter distance. We will not be including a walk/run or Galloway style training option for this program.
Time Trial
We will conduct a 5 mile time trial for all participants on the first day of the program to assess current fitness level and to group participants appropriately for optimal training and success
-
Sat, Jul 04, 2026 at 8:30 AMSee full details
ALL information about this race can be viewed at https://www.rivalraceseries.com/columbiafirecracker.
Get ready to light up your Independence Day at the Columbia Firecracker 5K & 10K. Join us for a high-energy celebration of fitness, community, and freedom. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just out for a fun, festive run, this event is built for everyone.
Choose your distance:
5K – Fast, scenic, and perfect for beginners, families, and speedsters.
10K – A longer challenge for those ready to push the pace.
Both courses wind around the beautiful paths of Lake Elkhorn, offering smooth pavement, water views, and a safe, spectator-friendly atmosphere. It’s flat, scenic, and ideal for runners and walkers of all ages and levels.
RACE START LOCATION
9821 Broken Land Parkway, Columbia, MD 21046.
Small parking lot next to Uber Bagels.
AGE REQUIREMENT
Runners must be at least 10 years old to participate in the 10K.
Runners must be at least 7 years old to participate in the 5K.
Pets, baby joggers/strollers, in-line skates, bicycles, and any other non-official
wheeled vehicles are prohibited.
-
See full details
Join us for the 32st year and celebrate the charm and character of an event
that has aged to perfection! Wine in the Woods is the largest wine festival in
Maryland and has been voted Best Festival in Howard County. Enjoy a glass
of wine during the festival (or a bottle to share with friends) from Maryland's
finest wineries. Prefer a beer? Purchase a beverage from one of the on-site,
local craft breweries. At this two-day event, enjoy great food, shopping, music, wine, and beer!
Placed throughout the festival grounds are the 30 juried artisans and
specialty crafters and over 20 high-quality restaurants and caterers.
Bring your picnic blanket and dancing shoes as six live bands play each day.
Advance ticket sales start in March. Tickets are non-refundable and cannot be
exchanged. This event is held rain or shine. A free, souvenir wine glass is given
to each 21 yrs + ticket holder upon entrance.
Information: Home | Wine in the Woods
Symphony Woods May 16 11am-6pm Sa
Symphony Woods May 17 11am-5pm Su
Event details and schedule
-
Sun, Jul 12, 2026 at 7:00 AMSee full details
This is a 45 mile biking event through all 10 Columbia Villages. You will also stop at 23 Columbia Association pools along the way to swim a couple of laps (however many you do is up to you). You can slide down the pool slides (if they are open) and take a dive. The ride is supported with 2 food stops along the way and technical support.
We can honestly say there is no event like this anywhere else!!! Please join us to benefit the Ulman Foundation.
Event details and schedule
On-site Registration and Check is starts at 6:30 am. Depending on number of participants, we may stagger the start. Be prepared to start at 7:15 am. Payment for day of event registration must be cash or check. We do not accept credit cards on Ride day.
There is no rain date. In the event of weather cancellation, we will donte proceeds to the charities and hope for better weather next year.
Parking is at the pool (please respect the roped off areas), Swansfield Elementary School and on the street.
Remember that you will be getting wet. A towel is up to you. But DO remember the Sunscreen!!!
Event FAQ available on our Facebook page.
-
Sun, Jul 19, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
The Columbia Association KIDS Triathlon is a race for all level athletes. Staged at Clemens Crossing Pool in Columbia, MD, participants will complete a pool swim, road bike and paved trail run. The bike course is moderate in elevation change and the run course is relatively flat. Registration includes t-shirt and finisher medal. This race is sanctioned by USA Triathlon. Additional race information can be found at www.rivalraceseries.com/columbiakidstriathlon.
7-8 YRS OLD
Swim - 50 yards, Bike - 2 miles, Run - .5 mile
9-10 YRS OLD
Swim - 100 yards, Bike - 2 miles, Run - .5 mile
11-12 YRS OLD
Swim - 100 yards, Bike - 4 miles, Run - 1 mile
13 -15 YRS OLD
Swim - 150 yards, Bike - 6 miles, Run - 1 mile
-
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 at 6:15 PMSee full details
Looking to train for a 10K race this year? Join the Howard County Striders for one of their prestigious training programs!
Join the Howard County Striders for one of their prestigious training programs!
10K Goal Race will be the Columbia Classic 10K race on the first Sunday in October
The Next Step Building to 10K Program is for runners of varying abilities. Participants will do a 2 mile time trial July 23 at Longfellow Elementary at 6pm so coordinators can group participants with those of similar abilities. Weekly training runs will involve a variety of running techniques including speed work and hill work to improve running performance. All runners should be able to run 3 miles before starting the program.
-
Sun, Aug 16, 2026 at 9:15 AMSee full details
Please join us on our 4th Annual All Clubs Ladies Ride to shine a light on Heart Health. The cycling community in Maryland along with some of our sister clubs in surrounding areas have come together this year to do one all clubs ladies' ride to show solidarity across all the clubs. The theme for this year's ride will be Heart Health as heart disease kills more women than ALL forms of cancer combined and also kills more than 50,000 women of color annually. The event rolls rain or shine. We will be at Pavillion West.
In honor of Heart Health, we are asking all women to wear red.
Lunch will be provided and there will be Vegan and Vegetarian options available
Registration includes: Lunch, Rest-Stop Refreshments, T-shirt, and a charitable donation.
T-shirts will be available at registration pickup to all participants who register prior to August 13, 2026. After that date, t-shirt availability will be on a first come first serve basis based on what we have left.
There will be 2 ride distances: Approximately 33mile and 21mile
We want everyone to return close to the same time so we ask that you pick your route accordingly based on your skill level. There will be SAG provided for the both routes; however, SAG will be for bike malfunctions only. Please make sure your bike is in good working order prior to the ride. There will be bike mechanics on-site prior to the ride so if you are unsure of the condition of your bike, we encourage you to get it checked prior to the ride if you have not already done so prior to the day of the event. These mechanics will be available on a first come first serve basis and can not guarantee they can repair all bikes prior to the start of the ride. There are a few rollers and we want to make sure everyone rides and returns safely. You are responsible for having your own tire change supplies as SAG will be there to assist with tire changes and mechanical issues only. If you have not been riding your bike but still want to participate in the ride, please be on the lookout for clinics
that will be held prior to the event.
PLEASE CHECK BACK CLOSER TO THE EVENT DATE FOR UPDATED ROUTES
-
Sun, Oct 25, 2026 at 12:00 AM
Join us for the 2026 Oktoberfest 5-Miler presented by Altra in Howard County! Celebrate this fall tradition with a beautiful course that winds around Columbia's scenic Lake Elkhorn, great swag, and an awesome post-race party at Black Flag Brewing Co.! A portion of the race proceeds benefits Bridges to Housing Stability in Howard County.
This race SELLS OUT, so register early and secure your spot!
-
Sat, Nov 14, 2026 at 8:25 AMSee full details
Join us for St. Augustine Catholic School’s 5th Annual Angels on the Run 5K! Run, walk or stroll! Angels on the Run 5K will take runners through the beautiful neighborhood of Lyndwood. While the race offers a challenge for those race enthusiasts, it is just as fun for families and friends to come out and enjoy the outdoors and experience the thrill of being a part of a community wellness event. There will be safety marshals stationed along the course and a water station at the halfway point! We award prizes for all age groups! Veterans will be recognized with a special token of appreciation. Strollers are allowed on the course.
A virtual race option is available for friends and family to join in the fun from afar. Race on your own time and submit your time by 11:59pm November 14, 2026.
Packet Pickup
Packet Pick-up will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026 from 3-6pm at St. Augustine Catholic School. Park in either lot and come to the SCHOOL GYMNASIUM doors. You can pick up packets for family and friends. We kindly request that packets are picked-up on Friday when feasible, but we do offer pick-up 7:30-8:30am on race day at the race venue, Lyndwood Executive Center.
Race Day
Parking is available on-site at the Lyndwood Executive Center. Please follow volunteers and signs and park in the north side (left side when facing the building) of the lot. The south side will be closed for the course and runner safety at 8:00am and will not reopen until after 9am. The lot may be exited on the north end throughout the race when runners are not in the lane. Please follow course safety marshal and Police directions.
Bibs will not be given out after the start of the 5K (8:30am) due to safety and permitting considerations. Late starts will not be permitted once the 5K race has begin.
The proceeds of this race go to St. Augustine Catholic School. St. Augustine Catholic School creates a caring and respectful community by educating the whole child and inspiring a life-long love of learning. It fosters an environment to form its students into disciples of Christ, to nurture self-confidence and to instill a belief in the dignity of all people.
FINAL EXTENSION - THE LAST DAY TO GUARANTEE SHIRTS IS NOVEMBER 6, 2026.
Event has chip-timing provided by Overland Timing and announcements/music by WF Running.
-
Thu, Nov 26, 2026 at 9:30 AMSee full details
A prediction run is entirely different from other races that you’ve run in the past. Rather than finishing first or running the fastest, the object of a prediction run is to finish as close to a certain time as possible. In the case of the Howard County Striders prediction runs, the goal is to finish as close to 11:00am as possible. One way the Striders prediction runs differ from many other runs is that you get to start whenever you want – whoever finishes closest to 11:00am wins. Oh, and one important thing, you CANNOT use any sort of timing device. Also, no baby strollers, iPods, headphones or animals.
All proceeds from this event will be donated to the Tripp Scholar Athlete Fund.
The run is located at the Jeffers Hill Neighborhood Center, 6031 Tamar Drive, Columbia, MD 21045
-
Mon, Jan 04, 2027 at 6:15 PMSee full details
Next Step Hibernation to 5K is a no frills, get to work right away program to encourage a quick start to the new year. This program is for both beginning runners and more experienced adult runners (18+) that just need to get off the couch after a long winter! Although we only train as a group once a week, participants should expect to be devoting time for 3-4 workouts each week in order to maximize their progress.
Local Clubs & Organizations
-
Club
USA Swimming Club. 378 members.
[email protected] +1 410-381-0200 -
Event Organizer1 event410-419-2241
-
Event Organizer1 event410-313-7275
-
Event Organizer1 event410-531-7594