With the weather warming up and the sun staying out later, why not spend some more time outside? Charlotte has plenty of walking and running events coming up that will encourage you to get your steps in and promote a healthy summer lifestyle. But these events are not just for the fitness gurus or the runners… in this article you can find a 5k race with craft beers at the finish line just as quickly as a charity fun run.
Did we miss one of your favorite Spring or Summer walks / runs? Contact us here with the scoop!
April 2024
Superheroes for Autism
Saturday, April 13
McAlpine Creek Park- 8:00 AM
Throw on your cape and take some strides to help provide housing and vital services to adults with autism in Charlotte this Saturday, April 13th. Remember, even if running isn’t your thing, walking is just as valiant, and donations are equally heroic.
Sarcoma Stomp
Saturday, April 13
On April 13, 2024 the Sarcoma Stomp will feature a 5K run and 3K walk followed by an epic after-race festival with food, music, activities, games, and much more. The Paula Takacs Foundation raised over $230,000 in 2023 and plan to exceed that mark in 2024 — with your help.
Little Sugar Creek Greenway ParkRun
Every Saturday
Near the Sharon Road West access point
Every Saturday at 9:00 am get involved in this fun, friendly, and free weekly community 5K! The address is 2212 Sharon Rd W, Charlotte, NC 28210. Plus, stick around after for the post park run coffee at a local cafe.
Tuck Fest
Friday April 19 – Sunday April 21
Whitewater Center
Located at the White Water Center, Tuck Fest is not limited to live music and outdoor yoga. The annual Tuck Fest Half Marathon and 5K is just one of the many outdoor competition activities Tuck Fest is hosting this year. A variety of races on foot, bike, and paddle are featured.
HEARTest Yard + Showmars 5K
Saturday April 20
CMC Myers Park
Presented by LifeShare Carolinas, HEARTest Yard and Showmars team up to maximize their impact and fundraising potential to meet the needs of and care for as many children affected by congenital heart diseases and disorders as possible.
Run! Ballantyne 8K, 5K and Fun Run
Saturday April 20
The Amp Ballantyne
This Ballantyne road race tradition is hitting its 20th year anniversary this April. Come support the YMCA while enjoying this event for runners and walkers of all ages. Saturday April 20th, 2024- 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Right Moves For Youth Twilight 5K Road Race & Walk
Friday, April 26
First Ward Park Uptown
While running the Twilight 5K, enjoy 3.1 miles of beautiful high-rise architecture, winding streets, and a course that takes you through some of the best sites in Uptown Charlotte. Friday, April 26th, 2024- 6:30 PM
Elizabeth 8K Road Race
Saturday, April 27
Elizabeth
The 38th annual Elizabeth 8K will take place on Saturday, April 27, 2024. This is Charlotte’s oldest 8K race and also includes a 1.5M untimed fun run/walk as well as the Liz Kids’ Fun Run for the little ones. The course provides a fantastic tour of the scenic tree-lined residential and commercial streets of the Elizabeth neighborhood. Proceeds benefit the beautification of the Elizabeth neighborhood and TreesCharlotte.
May 2024
River Jam Run
2nd Thursdays, May thru Sept
Whitewater Center
The White Water Center hosts monthly trail runs starting May 9th on the second Thursday of each month from May to September. If running isn’t your scene, the trails are also bike friendly for any cyclists interested in taking advantage of the summer night trail rides.
Walk A Mile
Saturday, May 11
Noda Brewing Company
This year, Charlotte’s Walk a Mile with Safe Alliance will be held May 11, 2024 at NoDa Brewing Company. Strap on your heels (or comfy sneakers) and join in and walk to bring awareness to the impact of sexual and domestic violence in our community. We will also see the return of the highly anticipated Silent Auction with some incredible items available to be bid on.
Code 3 5K
Saturday, May 11
Carowinds
Head to Carowinds Amusement Park on May 11th, 2024, for a spirited 5K run that will take you running through Carowinds’ Amusement Park while being met with First Responders and their vehicles along the way. On top of enjoying a 5K supporting our First Responders, we are offering racers and family members a special deal to stay in Carowinds after the conclusion of the race for $40 per ticket.
Mental Health Matters 5K and Festival
Sunday, May 19
McAlpine Creek Park
Charlotte’s first Mental Health Matters 5K and Festival is happening this May 19th, at 10:30 AM and you do not want to miss it. This event isn’t just a race; it’s a powerful movement to break the stigma surrounding mental health. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or taking your first steps toward the finish line, your participation sends a resounding message of support and solidarity. There will be music, bounce house, food trucks, small business vendors, and local mental health resources.
June 2024
Noda 5K
Saturday, June 1
Noda Brewing is hosting a 5K party in this historic arts district with an art show, music, and of course, some craft beer. Held on Saturday, June 1st, the art show will begin at 2 PM with the race following up at 6 PM.
She Tris Sprint Triathalon
Sunday, June 2
Harris YMCA
She Tris Sprint Triathlon hosts all women’s events, formerly known in North Carolina as Ramblin’ Rose, designed for women of all skill levels, ages and backgrounds to experience triathlons in an encouraging environment. June 2, 2024- 8-11 AM at Harris YMCA.
Brew Dash
Saturday, June 15
Whitewater Center
Also at the Whitewater Center this June 15th is the annual Brew Dash Trail Race, with the option to complete a 6K, 12K, or Half Marathon race. Once you are finished running a race of your choice, reward yourself with a selection of post-race craft beers brewed by Charlotte’s best breweries.
Dam to Dam Paddleboard Event
Friday, June 21
Catawba River
On Friday, June 21, 24 Foundation will launch an exciting new event held on the waters of the Catawba River. Dam to Dam is an epic 24-mile standup paddleboard event starting at the Mountain Island Lake Dam and ending at the Lake Wylie Dam, followed by a post-paddle celebration. The event is fully supported with stocked support boats, multiple rest stops, a catered lunch, and memories to last a lifetime.
Keep Pounding 5K
Saturday, June 22
Join Atrium Health Foundation and the Carolina Panthers for the 14th Annual Keep Pounding 5K on Saturday, June 22. Presented by Rodgers Builders, the event raises critical funds for cancer research and patient care initiatives at Atrium Health Levine Cancer and Atrium Health Levine Children’s.
Run the South 2024
June 29
McAlpine Creek Park
The Run The South Half Marathon, 10K and 5K is back and and better than ever with the best swag bag in the city, post-race submarine sandwiches, adult drinks and high-energy music. This race course is fast and flat through shaded greenways and wide open gravel paths. June 29, 2024- 7:00 AM – McAlpine Creek Park
July 2024
Summer Nights 5K
Friday, July 19
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Participants can enjoy one of the best pre-race settings around at the DSBG new Trailhead Store that is shaded by old growth trees and situated right beside beautiful ponds. Hydrate, hang out, cool off in the A/C as you prepare for a magical race during the golden hour in the Garden. After the race is over, participants will receive free entry to the Garden to enjoy their summer exhibit: “Summer Lights.” This one-of-a-kind exhibit will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a tropical paradise. July 19, 2024- 7:00 PM
