Races by Theme

Welcome to our spring edition of iconic short-distance races worth traveling for! For runners and walkers seeking an unforgettable, family-friendly experience, here we profile ten popular destination events (10 miles or less) that deliver world-class production, energy, and camaraderie without the morning-after hobble of longer distances. (Planning beyond spring? Check out our summer & fall edition.)  Bank […]

Whether you’re a first-timer seeking an unforgettable debut or a long-timer looking to rekindle your motivation, an anniversary celebration makes a memorable race weekend even better. And looking ahead, a number of popular running events are poised to celebrate milestone anniversaries in the coming months. With that in mind, and in response to the popularity of our […]

To many Americans, the word “racing” brings to mind images of sleek roadsters and sleeker Thoroughbreds. And with two of the nation’s most celebrated races taking place this month in the equine-powered Kentucky Derby and the turbine-powered Indianapolis 500, there’s no better time to profile nine running events that showcase horse or auto racing tracks. […]

For many runners, the term “destination race” brings to mind longer distances such as a marathon or half marathon, i.e. “no pain, no plane.” On the other hand, a number of popular events across the U.S. feature scenic courses, spirited crowds, and awesome after-parties without the post-race limp. Here we profile ten iconic short-distance races […]

For most Americans, the “presidential race” isn’t measured in miles and a “running mate” isn’t someone who shares your fitness goals. Nonetheless, a number of running events from 5K to 50 miles embrace our nation’s history by featuring and celebrating its past leaders. As the country commemorates Presidents’ Day, we spotlight ten races that showcase […]

With Halloween lurking around the corner, now’s a spook-tacular time to spotlight running events inspired by cryptozoology, the study of monsters, myths & legends. For believers and skeptics alike, here are 12 (because 13 would be… unlucky) races where a sudden rustle in the bushes, a shadowy figure in the distance, or an unidentified light in […]

With the past year bringing the events industry to a standstill, the return of racing season is a reason to rejoice. Adding to the optimism, a number of notable events celebrate milestone anniversaries in 2021–2022. For the novice runner seeking the perfect first-time marathon/half marathon or the seasoned veteran in search of motivation, the distinctive […]

Awards season is in full swing — with the Golden Globes behind us and the Oscars still to come, what better time to recognize running events that pay tribute to the big and small screens? Grab your popcorn and join us as we say “Hooray for Hollywood” with our rundown of movie- and TV-themed races. […]

Looking for an easy first-time marathon or speedy Boston Qualifier? You’re in the wrong place! As if running 26.2 miles weren’t challenging enough, here we spotlight the toughest road (paved or unpaved) marathons in North America. With high altitude, brutal hills and extreme weather, these 13 races take perverse pleasure in extracting as much blood, […]

Picture race day in your mind, and a predictable image emerges: start and finish lines + road lined with cheering spectators + runners competing to be the first across the finish. It’s a tried-and-true formula as old as racing itself. And yet a growing number of race organizers are rethinking this formula to add their […]

By guest author Heather Miller, Founder, Runfari Though the concept of running while on vacation may not win the popular vote, “We the People” know racecations are a front-runner for future generations of active vacationers. For those who like to throw a little history into the mix, we’ve outlined six racecation destinations that work the […]