Maybe it’s just me, but while I know I should be exercising for my health, sweating for a cause makes the whole process just a little bit more bearable.
The Virginia charitable run scene is on fire this year, and the calendar is jam-packed with fun runs, 5Ks, 10Ks and longer distance runs. Some are hosted by nonprofit sporting organizations, while others have named a charitable partner where proceeds are donated. Either way, it’s a great way to get off the couch, join your community and burn cals for a cause.
This is not a comprehensive list of races, but it should give you an idea of runs around Virginia for almost every remaining weekend of the calendar year.
Author’s Note: We feel good about these details as the time of posting, but we encourage everyone to visit the links to keep up with the latest information for each race.
Oct. 12: Princesses & Superheroes 5K & 1K Fun Run
Honestly, you had us at “Virginia Cupcake Festival,” but we’ll lace up for a run, too! This fun run is on Saturday, Oct. 12 as a warm-up to the 3rd Annual Virginia Cupcake Festival on Sunday, Oct. 13. Dress up as your favorite princess or superhero and feel good about supporting CHKD with your registration fee. You’ll also get a cupcake. It’s win/win. Learn more and sign-up.
Oct. 12: Step UP for Down Syndrome 5K & Family Festival
For our RVA readers, Oct. 12 is a great day to get out and support one of Virginia Down Syndrome Association’s flagship events. This year marks its 18th year hosting the Richmond event, which takes place at Dorey Park, 2999 Darbytown Road, Henrico. Learn more about peer-to-peer fundraising and sign-up.
Oct. 19: Better2gether Halloween Hustle 5K & Kids Run
We’re suckers for a theme run, and seeing the pirates, princesses and race car pit crew costumes from last year sold us. Whether you’re a kiddo under 12, a walker or a runner, this race is for you. Walk-up registration will also be available. Learn more and sign-up to run.
Oct. 26: Frick & Frack 5K
This race takes place at the Military Aviation Museum, a 501(c)3 organization in Virginia Beach, and proceeds benefit the Free Range Sisters Foundation, a group that helps Hampton Roads women through their journeys with cancer. This is a pure fun run and not a timed event. Register for the 5K or 100-yard kids’ dash.
Oct. 26: YMCA Gatorade Halloween Hustle 10K
For our Central Virginia readers, head over to Charlottesville for this 10K run and two-mile family walk. Another race where you can dress up for the occasion, this race starts at the Brooks Family YMCA and finishes at the Charlottesville High School Track. Registration fees vary. Learn more.
Nov. 2: Boys Home, Incorporated’s Home Harvest Hustle
In its 8th year, this race includes a 5K, 10K and a half-marathon option. The races will begin at the Intervale Trailhead in Covington, Va., and the courses follow an old railroad bed from the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad, winding along the Jackson River. A scenic view for a cause. Learn more and register for the distance of your choice.
Nov. 16: Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon
It’s one of Sports Backers’ largest events, and one that has visitors from all around Virginia (and beyond) coming in for. This race day includes a marathon, half marathon and 8K race. The official beneficiary is Kids on the Move, which promotes physical activity to youth across the Richmond region. Learn more and register.
Nov. 17: Hampton Roads Pride’s Run the Rainbow 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run
This is the second race on the list that uses part of Mount Trashmore in Virginia Beach for its route, and we love that. This race was the first race in the U.S. to host a gender-neutral registration and is an inclusive event with assisted athletes welcome and a virtual race option available. Learn more and register.
Nov. 23: Star City Half Marathon and 10K
Hosted by Virginia Amateur Sports, a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Roanoke, the Star City Half Marathon and 10K also has virtual race options and an in-person kid’s fun run. An additional charitable component to this race is a food drive hosted by Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and Kroger. Learn more and register.
Nov. 28: Drumstick Dash
This wins for one of our favorite named races on the list, but Roanoker Magazine also named this race “Best Charity Race,” so there’s that! This is a 5K family walk/run that happens every Thanksgiving morning and benefits the Rescue Mission of Roanoke. Learn more and sign-up.
Dec. 7: The Arc of the Piedmont Santa Fun Run/Walk
This event’s tagline is “Be a Claus for a Cause!” That’s because all registrants will receive Santa suits for adults and elf ears for children. This fun run is approximately one mile, starting at the Downtown Mall and ending in front of Ting Pavilion in Charlottesville, with all proceeds benefiting The Arc of the Piedmont. Learn more and register.
Dec. 14: Deck the Heels 5K Night Run
Bundle up! Taking place in Altavista, Va., this race benefits The Claire Parker Foundation, which provides ongoing care and emotional support for children and families battling pediatric cancer. Registration is open all the way until race day. Learn more and sign-up here.
Dec. 21: Johnny CASA 5 Miler and 5K Run/Walk
Celebrating its 19th race year, this is a family-focused, superhero-themed race with scenic views of historic Rocky Mount. All proceeds of the race support the Southern Virginia Child Advocacy Center. Register before Nov. 24 to guarantee your race t-shirt. Learn more and register.
Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Glow Run
Ending the year out with a glow is the New Year’s Eve Glow Run hosted by Generations Crossing, a nonprofit that serves the Harrisonburg community by providing intergenerational care and support. This run takes place at the Heritage Oaks Golf Course, and you’ll have plenty of glow swag to light up the night. Learn more and sign-up.
Featured Image: Sports Backers, Richmond Marathon
