18 fun run events in Charlotte, North Carolina

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!

Join us for the 2026 Run the Creek 5K and Family Fun Run on Saturday, February 28!

This exciting event offers a Family Fun Run starting at 8:30 am and a 5K road race starting at 9:00 am. Both events wind through the beautiful (and hilly!) Highland Creek neighborhood.

We believe in community, and this family-friendly initiative welcomes participants of all ages and paces, ensuring everyone can join in the fun!

Your participation supports Highland Creek's six public schools: Highland Creek Elementary School, Cox Mill Elementary School, Ridge Road Middle School, Harris Road Middle School, Mallard Creek High School, and Cox Mill High School.

Register by February 8 to be guaranteed a t-shirt for the 5K!

(Please note: the Family Fun Run does not include a t-shirt)

Join the STORY of Charlotte's Oldest Road Race

The YMCA Corporate Cup isn't just Charlotte's oldest road race, it's a 47-year tradition of connection, community and collective impact. Every stride brings us closer to one shared goal: a stronger Charlotte. Whether you're a first time 5K runner, a seasoned half-marathoner or someone just looking to share an unforgettable day with co-workers and friends, this race is where the community shows up, and shows heart!

DATE: March 7, 2026

RACE START TIME: 7:40 AM - Half Marathon| 8:00 AM - 5K | 8:40 AM - Fun Run

LOCATION: Truist Field | 324 S Mint St, Charlotte, NC 28202

The Race Experience

It all begins and ends at Truist Field, right in the heart of Uptown Charlotte. Feel the city's energy as you take off, surrounded by fellow runners, neighbors and local businesses - all united for a cause that strengthens our community.

Choose your challenge:

* 5K Run/Walk presented by Cherry Bekaert: A perfect distance for beginners or anyone chasing a new personal best

* Half Marathon: Conquer 13.1 miles of energy & encouragement

* Half Marathon Relay: Grab a friend, family member or co-worker to tackle the Half Marathon together

* Fun Run presented by Chick-fil-A Charlotte: Perfect for families, beginners, and anyone looking to join in on the excitement!

When you cross the finish line, the celebration continues with a post-race party featuring a DJ, local food & beverages, and more! Check out last year's highlights below:

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*If you are an active or retired member of the military, please contact us for a discounted rate*

14th Annual Run Jen Run 5K & Festival

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How You Can Make An Impact

Register to run or walk at our in-person event on March 21, 2026, at Symphony Park. Your participation helps raise critical funds for Go Jen Go's Patient Assistance and family support programs helping local breast cancer patients.

NEW in 2026 - all breast cancer survivors, thrivers, and fighters register for free! If you are a breast cancer survivor, thriver, or fighter, please fill out THIS FORM for a free registration code.

The event features a 5K, Fun Run, a festival with music, and a family fun zone full of games and bounce houses. There will also be local food vendors, beverages, and community-driven sponsors showcasing their businesses.

Create A Team

Ask your family, friends, and co-workers to join you by creating a team! Awards will be presented to the Largest Teams (Corporate, Community, and Survivor/Thriver categories) and Top Fundraising Team on Race Day

Fundraise

Donations make a huge impact! With your financial support, we can assist all of the eligible breast cancer patients as soon as they need it! Click here to donate, or you have the choice to donate to a participant of the event.

Hope Village presented by Novant Health

Breast cancer survivors, thrivers, and fighters will receive VIP treatment in Hope Village. This area is dedicated to celebrating them and gives them a space to relax, feel supported and connect with one another.

On-Site Mammograms presented by Novant Health

Novant Health’s Breast Center mobile unit will be on-site on Race Day. Walk-ins will be accepted from 6:30am-8:45am. Walk-ins and scheduled appointments from 9:00am-11:00am.

Please contact 704-384-7226 to schedule your appointment. Ask for the Purple Mobile. Have your insurance card ready.

Jen's Garden of Hope

Jen's Garden of Hope is where you can see Signs of Hope purchased in memory of or in honor of loved ones who are battling breast cancer, are in remission, and those who have passed away. You can purchase Signs of Hope to be part of the garden and take your sign with you after the race.

The first 500 to register for the 5K and select yes for a medal, will receive the

2026 medal.

People with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome. That's why this race has a little something extra too! Runners will cross the standard 5K finish line, then go on to run to an extra finish line to represent the extra chromosome in our friends with Down syndrome. Runners will be cheered on the "extra" dash by spectators with Down syndrome!

All runners are invited to join us after the race for the World Down Syndrome Day celebration including food, games and bounce houses!

On Saturday, March 28, 2026, Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center will host its 7th annual Communication Counts 5k timed race, fun run (untimed), and kids dash at McAlpine Creek Park in Charlotte. We will also be bringing back our virtual race option. These events raise critical funds that provide access to superior speech-language and hearing services that empower and transform lives to anyone in need in our community.

Timed 5k participants will receive a timing bib for official race results, race t-shirt, and finisher medal. Fun Run participants will also complete the 5k course but will not be timed, helping CSHC reduce event costs. Fun Run participants will receive a t-shirt and finisher medal while supplies last. If you’d like an official race time, be sure to register for the 5k!

Kids Dash participants and Virtual Run registrants will each receive a race t-shirt. We will also be awarding prizes to:

• 1st, 2nd and 3rd place male and female

• the Team That Raises The Most

• the Most Spirited Team

• the Largest Team

Click here to view a map of McAlpine Creek Park's course.

Packet Pickup:

• Wednesday, March 25 from 7:30 AM-9:30 AM at CSHC’s Charlotte clinic – 3rd floor

• Thursday, March 26 from 11 AM-1 PM at CSHC’s Charlotte clinic –3rd floor

• Thursday, March 26, 2026, 4:00 PM-7:00 PM, Charlotte Running Co. Promenade (5355 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy #200, Charlotte, NC 28277). Enjoy 10% off in store with your race bib!

This is a chip timed race for both start and finish. (yep! we will be having chipped start and end this year, where your official time will be between when you cross the starting line and when you cross the finish line!).

All 5K and 10K finishers will receive a medal when they cross the finish line.

There will be awards for 1st, 2nd, 3rd overall Male and Female and age based awards for Male and Female.

Good Luck!

Date: Saturday April 11, 2026

Race start times:

• 10K starts at 8:30 AM

• 5K starts at 8:45 AM

• Walk / Fun run starts at 8:50 AM

Location: McAlpine Creek Park 8711 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC 28212

Packet pickup and locations

You have 2 options for pickup:

1.) Fri April 10, Charlotte Running Company - Promenade - 5355 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy #200, Charlotte, NC 28277

2.) Sat April 11, (Race day) 8:00 AM to event start at McAlpine Creek Park, 8711 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC 28212,

Parking

There's a big sign off of Monroe Rd for McAlpine Creek Park. Once you turn in, parking is on your right.

5K Course Map

5K route (mapmyrun.com)

5K route (plotaroute.com)

10K route will be 5K + Greenway - more to come on the specific route

This is the standard 5K course McAlpine is known for. For those with strollers, have no fear (of the hill), we've designed a stroller friendly tiny alteration in the course. We'll have people on the course to make that clear. Also note, the hill has been cleaned up and the ground is smoother than it has been in the past in case you want to test it out before the race.

We're super excited that you joined our race. We're looking forward to seeing you there!

Awards 5K and 10K:

• 1st, 2nd, 3rd Place overall for Female (these are really cool awards!)

• 1st, 2nd, 3rd Place overall for Male (these are really cool awards!)

• Age based 1st place winners award certificates for Male and Female (they are pretty nice)

• 10 and under

11-15

16-20

21-25

26-29

30-39

40-49

50-59

60-69

70+

• Finisher Medals for all those who registered for the 5K and 10K only races and cross the finish line. (very nice medals!)

About the Race and ASMC

Autism Services of Mecklenburg County (ASMC for short). ASMC is a 501(c)(3) not for profit providing housing and services for adults with autism right here in Charlotte since 1979 and they are WONDERFUL!

All entry fee profits go directly to ASMC to keep them running great. - Just like you will be doing at this race when you sign up!

Why Superheroes?

Hi, my name is Tony Scotto di Carlo and I have served on ASMC's board for 16 years and my brother Thomas is a resident at one of ASMC's wonderful group homes. We've picked the Superhero theme because many of ASMC's residents, (including my brother), love Superheroes and we want them to be super excited and surprised when they see hundreds of caped crusaders in full superhero gear running at once. That means you BTW! - sign up now! (Also, let's be honest, Superheroes are just awesome)

We're delighted that you are here. If you are not a runner, sign up and walk or just make a donation. ASMC will appreciate any amount!

Thank you for your generosity - YOU ARE A SUPERHERO!

Charlotte's only Uptown Twilight race IS BACK!!!

What Twilight 5K and Fun Run

Where First Ward Park

301 E 7th St. Charlotte, NC 28202

When April 24, 2026

5K - 6:30 PM

Fun Run - 6:35 PM

While running the Twilight 5K, enjoy 3.1 miles beginning at First Ward Park. Get ready to take on a fast flat towards the Elizabeth area and come back to a beautiful view of uptown as you climb 7th street. We are looking for runners, walkers and joggers of all shapes, sizes and fitness levels to join us for the 29th Annual Twilight 5K.

RUN FOR THEIR FUTURE

RMFY is a school-based, youth development and student support program focused on helping youth in middle and high school develop the skills to succeed.

Your participation in this race provides services to deserving young people in the community. Our partnerships with CMS and local law enforcement are unique, as we were co-founded by a CMPD officer. For more information about RMFY watch this short video: https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/655534817 .

Each year, RMFY reaches approximately 1000 students in grades 6-12 and helps students with educational attainment, social & emotional well-being, career development, and civic duty & leadership. RMFY is serving 19 middle and high school sites, as well as, online groups this school year.

Our mission is help students in grades 6-12 make the most out of their education, connections, and opportunities to set themselves up for future success. This year’s Twilight 5K race is special as we continue to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of Right Moves For Youth! More information about our history watch this short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9oD4sn7AF8.

For more information about Twilight 5K, watch this short video: https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/720091216

Become a Twilight 5K Sponsor and reach 1,000+ people in-person and 6,000+ through email marketing!

If you or someone you know are interested in sponsoring Twilight 5K, please contact April Harley, Director of Development, at [email protected].

Go the extra mile and become a fundraiser and/or volunteer!

As one of our annual fundraisers, the Twilight 5k is an integral part of our organization’s ability to meet the needs of students in Mecklenburg County.

Start your own fundraising page through the race website and begin to make a difference. You do not have to be a runner or walker to start a fundraising page, too! Click REGISTER and select "Fundraise Only" to sign up. Through this process you will be able to set a fundraising goal, write your story and will receive a follow up email on how to customize and share your Fundraising Page.

Twilight 5K requires the generosity of more than 50 volunteers to make this event happen. Volunteer information can be found here!

More questions? We can help you.

Email us at [email protected]

Every dollar counts to show that every student counts.

Each runner will receive a race shirt and a medal for participating.

Disclaimer: Medals and shirt sizes are first-come, first-served. We will do our best to provide you with the size you request. Please indicate the correct size on your registration. You must register by April 20 in order to receive a race t-shirt (adult and youth).

We're celebrating our 10th Year Running for Heart Kids! Join us and help make a difference!

With great privilege, the HEARTest Yard and Showmars Restaurants join forces to host the 10th Annual HEARTest Yard + Showmars 5K presented by LifeShare Carolinas! With a like-minded mission to support Levine Children’s Hospital, we’ve teamed up to maximize our impact and fundraising potential to meet the needs of and care for as many children affected by congenital heart diseases and disorders as possible.

When: May 16, 2026

8:00 AM - 5K

9:15 AM - Kids' Fun Run

Where:

Atrium Health Myers Park

1350 S. Kings Dr, Charlotte, NC US 28207

With pre-race activities (day-of registration, packet pick-up, announcements, etc.), join Greg Olsen and his family at the HEARTest Yard + Showmars 5K presented by LifeShare Carolinas start line upon completion of the pre-race program. Run or walk the scenic streets of the Queen City. After the race stick around and join us at a post-race celebration that will include comments from Greg Olsen, a complimentary Kid’s Fun Run, refreshments, music, inflatables and more.

Race Packet Pickup

The excitement begins before race day! Join at Run For Your Life in Midtown to grab your race bib and official 5K t-shirt. Picking up for a friend, your family, or your whole team? No problem, you can collect multiple packets at once.

When: May 15, 2026

11:00 AM - 6:30 PM

Where:

Run For Your Life

901 S Kings Dr, Suite 100, Charlotte, NC US 28204

Still need to register? You can sign up on-site during packet pickup. Stop by, get geared up, and get ready to run for a great cause!

FUNdraising Challenge

Put the FUN in FUNdraising! The HEARTest Yard + Showmars 5K presented by LifeShare Carolinas challenges YOU to commit to FUNdraising $100 on behalf of yourself or your team.

Each participant that raises a minimum of $100 as an individual or as part of a team will receive a complimentary, limited edition t-shirt! And that's just the beginning. Capture more Halve a Heart swag and even a Meet & Greet with Greg Olsen.

Breakfast with Greg Olsen!

After the race, continue the celebration at Breakfast with Greg at Showmars Dilworth. This intimate post-5K gathering gives you the opportunity to meet Greg Olsen and hear more about his vision for The HEARTest Yard, his NFL journey, and his life in Charlotte. Guests can now reserve their seat directly through race registration. Breakfast-only participation is an $88 donation (displayed as $96.54 to reflect necessary fees), and runners can bundle the 5K + Breakfast experience for the same $88 donation (also displayed as $96.54), making it an incredible value. Space is limited! Click below to learn more and secure your spot.

Kids' Fun Run

As part of our post-race celebrations, we’re inviting all the kiddos 12 and under to join in on the Fun Run! Registration is not required * —just bring your running shoes and a big smile. Kids will have the chance to take a lap (or two, or three!) around the parking lot, crossing the finish line with pride, depending on their age and energy level. Every little runner will receive a goodie bag to celebrate their awesome effort. It’s all about having fun and making memories, so come join the race day excitement!

• The kids' run does not include a shirt.

Registration Fees

Distance Early Bird Registration

ends 3/16 Regular Registration

after 3/16

5K $30 $35

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

5K & Festival

May 17th, 2026 | McAlpine Creek Park

Join us Sunday May 17th, 2026, for Mental Health Matters 5K, Kids Fun Run, & a Post-Race Community Festival to create awareness for mental health.

Event Schedule:

9:00 AM - 5K

10:00 AM Awards

Post race party/festival

support our local CLT small businesses and explore mental health and well-being resources

10:30 AM - Kids Fun Run

Get the younger generation of runners going!

Our fun run is something special - if you're finished with the 5K, we want you showing support for all the kids!

This fun run is to empower kids, to remind them that they CAN do hard things!

This event is for kids under the age of 12 and for all abilities wanting to participate in a shorter distance (wheelchairs, personal guides, support animals, and other forms of assistance are welcome).

• It is never too early to start talking to kids about mental health and we are trying to pave the way for brighter futures for young minds *

Mental health affects all people of all ages, it is just as important as physical health and it does not discriminate. This event isn't just a race; it's a powerful movement to create awareness while finding hope in solidarity.

We hope that whatever you may be dealing with, that running is one of the things that helps you get through the challenging days and that you have the community to support you when you need it.

We all go through times that can challenge our mental health.

Let's normalize that with more visibility and presence within our community as we continue to amplify the conversation surrounding mental health and build a brighter future.

Invite your friends & family and enjoy the post race party/festival with delicious food trucks, vendors, petting zoo, yoga, acupuncture, and more! Plan to bring a form of payment to enjoy these amazing vendors and support CLT small businesses!

SwimMAC Running Into Summer 5K

May 23, 2026

McAlpine Creek Park

8:00 AM - 5K

9:15 AM - Fun Run

Running to Support Water Safety This Summer!

The top ranked USA Swimming Club in the country is getting out the pool and lacing up their running shoes!

Come join us at McAlpine Creek Park on Saturday, May 23rd for our second annual Running Into Summer 5K and Fun Run. The on-site DJ will boost everyone's energy on the morning of the race and all participants will receive an event shirt, bib and finisher medal.

Shirt and medal quantities are limited. REGISTER NOW

As a youth-sports non-profit, SwimMAC has a unique take on your average 5K that places a specific focus on your younger athletes. The 5K will have awards for the fastest boys and girls in the below age groups:

10 & Under

11-12

13-14

15-16

17-18

We will also have age group awards for adults and masters as well so whether you're running or walking, parents should consider registering and make this an event the entire family participates in to kick off Memorial Day Weekend. You can also register your youngest athletes for the 0.4 mile Fun Run. While there are no winner awards for the Fun Run, participants will receive an event shirt and bib to make sure they are included in the fun!

Thank You For Supporting Us!

SwimMAC is the top ranked USA Swimming Club in the country for the fourth year in a row, but the local impact to Charlotte-area families is even greater. Our Swim School teaches roughly 15,000 swim lessons annually to make sure children in Charlotte are safe in the water and learn to love swimming.

Our organization relies on membership revenue, sponsorships and charitable giving in order to provide quality coaching and instruction, maintain our excellent teaching and training locations, fund financial aid programs and staff education, and explore new ways to connect with our community.

Please consider including a small donation with your registration and supporting the nearly 50 full-time employees, 120 part-time employees and volunteers as we all work towards accomplishing SwimMAC's Mission: Empowering young people to be champions in life, through excellence in swimming.

For more than 20 years, Run! Ballantyne has been a tradition that brings people together, neighbors, families, coworkers, and friends, moving with purpose through the heart of our community. On Saturday, May 30, 2026, the 22nd Annual Run! Ballantyne 8K, 5K, and Fun Run, presented by Northwood Office, returns to Ballantyne. With more than 1,400 participants in 2025, this YMCA signature event continues to grow—reflecting a community committed to showing up for one another and striving for something greater. DATE: May 30, 2026 RACE START TIME: 7:30 AM - 8K | 7:40 AM - 5K | 9:15 AM - Fun Run LOCATION: The Amp Ballantyne™ 11115 Upper Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28277 Race for Every Pace Run! Ballantyne offers multiple course options through Ballantyne Corporate Park and new greenway connections—welcoming runners and walkers from beginner to expert * 8K Run: Take on Run! Ballantyne’s signature distance (4.97 miles) —perfect for seasoned runners or anyone ready to push themselves a little further in

pursuit of something greater. * 5K Run/Walk: A community favorite and an ideal distance for beginners, walkers, or runners chasing a new personal best. * Fun Run: Short, energetic, and full of joy! A family-friendly option, perfect for kids, first-time participants, and anyone who wants to be part of the excitement without the pressure. All finishers will receive a custom finisher medal, and participants are invited to keep the celebration going with a post-race party at The Amp, featuring a live DJ and festivities at the Ballantyne Bowl. Greater Together Running is better together. Register as a team with your business, school, or community group and make your miles matter even more. Awards will be given for: * Largest teams in each division * Fastest overall team Whether you’re chasing a personal record, walking with family, or cheering from the sidelines, Run! Ballantyne is your chance to move together—and move our community forward.