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Running Events in Raleigh
Are you interested in running in Raleigh, NC? Here are ten popular races in Raleigh, including 5Ks and marathons!
It is estimated that nearly 50 million people in the United States participate in some form of running or jogging. That is about 15% of the American population and shows that running is a popular activity for getting fit and staying active.
Unlike joining a gym, running is a free exercise and encourages individuals to get outside. This growth in running has led to an increase in race participation, and interestingly enough, 53% of official race participants are women.
Raleigh, North Carolina, has earned its reputation as one of the Southeast's premier destinations for runners. With its growing housing market, mild climate, scenic tree-lined streets, historic neighborhoods, and welcoming community, the capital city offers an exceptional backdrop for runners of all abilities.
Many races benefit local nonprofits, support children's causes, or raise awareness for important health issues, allowing participants to give back to the community while pursuing their fitness goals.
This guide highlights ten of Raleigh's best running races. Whether you are training for your first 5K or your fiftieth marathon, these events will inspire you to lace up your shoes and discover why Raleigh runners are so passionate about their city.
Check out these popular races in Raleigh.
1. City of Oaks Marathon
When: November 1st, 2026
Where: Downtown Raleigh
Distance: 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and Marathon
Course Type: Road
The City of Oaks Marathon is Raleigh's hometown race, traditionally held on the first Sunday of November, and it has become the city's signature running event. Founded in 2007, this Boston Marathon qualifier showcases the best of Raleigh's urban and natural landscapes.
The marathon course takes runners on a journey through the heart of the capital city. Participants experience Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh, the State Capitol Building, the Glenwood South restaurant district, Meredith College, NC State University, and the NC State University Bell Tower. The route beautifully contrasts modern cityscape with wooded greenway trails along the Capital Area Greenway system.
Sponsored by Martin Marietta and other businesses in Raleigh, runners can select their distance and choose to run a Full Marathon (26.2 miles), Half Marathon (13.1 miles), 10K, or 5K. The race has attracted over seven thousand participants across all events in recent years, making it a major community celebration.
For serious marathoners, the relatively early November timing provides ideal racing weather, with temperatures typically in the 40s to 50s. The race operates as a nonprofit organization, with proceeds supporting local charities including Rex Healthcare Foundation and the YMCA.
Participants can register online, and the price schedule depends on the time of signup. The Acorn 5K is the most affordable option out of all races due to its shorter distance. The starting line is at 400 Glenwood Avenue in Raleigh, and the start time depends on the length of the race.
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2. Krispy Kreme Challenge
When: February 7th, 2026
Where: Starts at Memorial Belltower on the campus of North Carolina State University
Distance: 5 Miles (2.5 miles + 12 doughnuts + 2.5 miles)
Course Type: Road
The Krispy Kreme Challenge is an annual charity event in Raleigh that is described as the ultimate test of physical fitness. Considered the number one tradition to complete before graduating from North Carolina State University, this student-run race at this top-rated college welcomes all community members.
Participants run 2.5 miles from the Memorial Belltower on NC State's campus through historic downtown Raleigh to Krispy Kreme, attempt to consume one dozen original glazed doughnuts, then run 2.5 miles back to the Belltower. The challenge? Complete everything in under one hour.
What began in December 2004 as a dare among about a dozen friends has transformed into one of NC State's most beloved traditions and a must-do experience for students before graduation. The event has raised over $2.2 million for UNC Children's Hospital, making it the hospital's largest unrestricted donor.
The race offers three registration categories to accommodate all comfort levels: Challengers (who attempt all 12 doughnuts and try to finish in under an hour), Casuals (who enjoy as many or few doughnuts as they wish), and No Doughnut runners (who just want to complete the 5-mile run).
3. 5K Beer Run
When: November 2026
Where: Crank Arm Brewery in Downtown Raleigh
Distance: 5K
Course Type: Road
For runners who appreciate craft beer as much as they enjoy running, the NC Brewery Running Series offers the perfect combination. These fun-run courses all start and end at local breweries, with no time clock and no pressure.
Crank Arm Brewery is a popular brewery in Downtown Raleigh that serves a wide selection of house-made craft beer. Crank Arm hosts a 5K Beer Run annually, encouraging community members to stay active, have fun, and drink beer. The best part is that a portion of the proceeds is used to support local nonprofits.
The series embodies the philosophy "Be active. Have fun. Give back." Each event features a 5K-ish course that winds through downtown Raleigh or surrounding neighborhoods, and registration includes a craft beverage of choice from the host brewery, plus access to live music, food trucks, and games with partners and sponsors.
The laid-back atmosphere attracts both serious runners looking for a recovery run and casual participants who want to try running in a non-intimidating setting.
4. Skinny Turkey Half Marathon
When: Thanksgiving Day 2026
Where: 2200 Wakefield Pines Drive, Raleigh, NC 27614
Distance: 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon
Course Type: Road
The Skinny Turkey is the only race in the Raleigh area to offer distances from 1 Mile up to a half-marathon for their Turkey Trot, and all races are stroller and pet-friendly, so no one has to stay home on Thanksgiving morning.
This race is open to everyone and all skill types and is a great way to begin the holiday season. Held annually on Thanksgiving Day, this event has become a beloved tradition for families who want to earn their turkey dinner.
The race starts at Wakefield High School, and the half-marathon course runs through Wakefield Plantation and the Wake Falls neighborhood, featuring rolling hills that test fitness levels but also showcase the scenic residential areas.
Runners appreciate the well-organized event, which includes pace groups for the half-marathon (ranging from 1:45 to 3:00), comprehensive age-group awards, and morning packet pickup, so you do not have to pick up your bib days in advance. The time limit for the half-marathon is 3 hours and 15 minutes (approximately 15-minute pace), ensuring all participants return safely by mid-morning to start their Thanksgiving celebrations.
5. Ninja 5K and 10K
When: August 8th, 2026
Where: 9300 Deponie Drive, Raleigh, NC 27614
Distance: 5K and 10K
Course Type: Road
The Ninja 5K and 10K offer a unique approach to racing with its recurring events at Green Hills County Park. The course is an out-and-back format, with the 5K completing the loop twice and the 10K completing it four times. This repetitive format allows runners to mentally break down the distance into manageable segments and provides multiple opportunities for spectators to cheer.
This race is on concrete and is an out-and-back course, meaning that participants run to a designated turnaround point. It is excellent for runners of all levels and is the perfect opportunity to test your limits. The races maintain a 2-hour time limit and welcome walkers as well as runners.
All finishers receive themed medals, making each race feel special despite the regular schedule. The beginner-friendly atmosphere and consistent location make these events ideal for runners who want to track their progress over time or those new to racing who appreciate the familiar setting.
6. Canes 5K
When: September 2026
Where: Lenovo Center
Distance: 5K
Course Type: Road
Hockey fans and runners unite at the annual Canes 5K, hosted by the Carolina Hurricanes Foundation. The event includes a 5K route around the Lenovo Center and surrounding areas, two Caniac kids' dashes, inflatables, interactions with favorite Canes players, and a post-race celebration.
The race typically takes place in late September, perfectly timed to build excitement for the upcoming hockey season. Each 5K participant receives one upper-level ticket to a predetermined Hurricanes home game, a commemorative t-shirt, a customized bib, access to a post-race breakfast, and the chance to win raffle prizes. Runners 21 and older also receive a complimentary beer after finishing.
Perfect for hockey and sports fans, this is the perfect opportunity to meet current and former Carolina Hurricanes players, team staff, and the beloved mascot Stormy. The family-friendly atmosphere includes inflatables for kids, Kona Ice, and a cooling zone.
The event consistently reaches maximum capacity and sells out, so early registration is essential. All proceeds benefit the Carolina Hurricanes Foundation, which supports children's health and educational needs and promotes youth hockey growth across North Carolina.
7. Day of the Dead 5K
When: October 31st, 2026
Where: 106 South Wilmington Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
Distance: 5K
Course Type: Road
The Day of the Dead 5K will celebrate its 14th season in 2026. This 5K celebrates Día de los Muertos while benefiting the children of the Fox Road Boys & Girls Club. This cultural celebration combines running with art, music, food, and community in a uniquely Raleigh way.
Founded by Centro Mexican Restaurant, the race has grown into a significant fundraising event. Over the past 11 years, more than 6,000 runners have participated, raising over $170,000 for the Boys & Girls Club. The funds support vital after-school programs for the Latin American community, providing safe spaces and enrichment activities for children.
The race starts at 9:00 AM in front of Centro Mexican Restaurant and runs through historic Oakwood Cemetery in the Historic Oakwood neighborhood before looping back to Wilmington Street. Along the course, participants can stop at two traditional Día de los Muertos altars to leave flowers or written messages in memory of loved ones.
8. The Cupcake Run at Brier Creek
When: October 2026
Where: Brier Creek Commons Shopping Center
Distance: 5K
Course Type: Road
The Annual Cupcake Run at Brier Creek is a fun way to mix running and desserts. Billed as "the sweetest run in Raleigh," the Cupcake Run at Brier Creek combines fitness with indulgence most delightfully. The run starts in front of the Clock Tower at Brier Creek Commons, takes runners through the shopping center towards DICK'S Sporting Goods, and returns on an out-and-back course.
The race lives up to its name: registered runners receive the official race t-shirt, a finisher's medal, and a full-size GiGi's Cupcake at the finish line. The event is intentionally designed as a family party rather than just a race. It's stroller-friendly and pet-friendly, ensuring no family member gets left behind.
All proceeds from the race benefit Make-A-Wish Eastern NC, making every step count toward granting wishes for children with critical illnesses. The Cupcake Run exemplifies the Raleigh running community's ability to create events that are simultaneously competitive, charitable, and just plain fun.
9. Tobacco Road Marathon and Half Marathon
When: March 2026
Where: 7445 Green Hope School Road, Cary, NC 27519
Distance: Marathon and Half-Marathon
Course Type: Paved, dirt, and crushed gravel
The Tobacco Road Marathon & Half Marathon has earned a reputation as one of the region's premier spring racing events. The race features over 20 miles on the American Tobacco Trail (ATT), with the rest of the course being flat and fast with a downhill finish.
The American Tobacco Trail follows the former Norfolk Southern Railroad, built in the early 1900s to transport tobacco from Duncan to Durham. This rails-to-trails conversion provides a shaded, scenic route through wooded areas that feels worlds away from urban life, even though runners are never far from the Triangle's cities.
The event is organized by a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to partner charities by channeling runners' passions into a force for good. The race directors are known for their attention to detail and runner-focused approach.
10. Komen Triangle Race for the Cure
When: April 25th, 2026
Where: Durham Bulls Athletic Park
Distance: 5K
Course Type: Road
The Komen Triangle Race for the Cure brings together the breast cancer community to pay tribute to and support those impacted by the disease. This race is a powerful community gathering that celebrates survivors, honors loved ones lost, and raises critical funds for breast cancer research and patient support.
The event typically features an opening ceremony at 8:30 AM, with the race starting at 9:00 AM. The race includes an out-and-back 5K course with live music, a Survivor/Thriver Celebration, a Family Fun Zone with bounce houses, kids' activities, and a Tailgate Zone with local food trucks and breweries.
FAQs
What is the most popular running race?
The Boston Marathon is the oldest running marathon in the world and is considered the most prestigious due to its history, tradition, and large spectator base. Since 1897, all runners must meet a qualifying time to enter, making it exclusive and competitive. This special race even has notable hills, making this a challenging course to run.
How many people run the Raleigh marathon?
The Raleigh Marathon typically has at least 5,000 runners each year, but in 2024, the record was set with over 7,600 runners running the course. The City of Oaks Marathon is one of Raleigh's most anticipated running events.
What time does the Raleigh marathon start?
The City of Oaks Marathon has two different start times depending on the length of the race. The Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10K races begin at 7 AM, and the 5K starts at 7:20 AM.
Methodology
Information was sourced from the New York Times, WRAL, Livestrong, and popular running events in Raleigh to determine the best running races in Raleigh, NC. All races are community events open to all skill levels and have online registration.
Best Running Races in Raleigh, NC - Final Thoughts
These ten races represent just a sampling of the year-round running opportunities available in the capital city, but each one offers a window into different aspects of Raleigh's character.
If you are considering calling Raleigh home or want to buy a house in one of its many suburbs, Raleigh Realty and our team of experienced Real Estate Specialists are here to help and answer questions.
