If you are looking for races in Columbia, Missouri, you have come to the right place. Columbia has a growing running scene with 15 races listed in our directory, including 5 upcoming events in 2026. Whether you are lacing up for your first 5K or chasing a new personal record, there is something here for every runner.
Upcoming Races in Columbia, Missouri
Here is a look at the top upcoming races in Columbia this year. We update our listings weekly so you always have the most current information.
SALSA Run | Columbia, MO
Date: August 29, 2026
Get ready to run and celebrate at Columbia, MO’s first-ever SALSA Run, where the finish line leads straight to a festive block party! Choose your preferred distancea 1-mile walk, 5K, or 10Kand cross that finish line to earn a one-of-a-kind salsa bowl medal that doubles as your… Read full details →
Heart of America Marathon & Relay
Date: September 7, 2026
Distance: Marathon
Join the 67th running of this legendary marathon held in Columbia, MO on the first Monday in September, starting at 6:00 a.m. from Boone County History and Culture Center. Read full details →
Do Hard Things 5k Run/Walk & 9.11-Mile Run or Ruck
Date: September 19, 2026
Distance: 5K
Get ready to challenge yourself on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Coopers Landing in Columbia, MO, where you can tackle either a 5k run/walk or push yourself further with a 9.11-mile run or ruck! Read full details →
Lizzy’s 9th Annual Walk of Faith 5K Walk/Run
Date: September 26, 2026
Distance: 5K
Join us on Saturday, September 26th, 2026 at Bethel Park in Columbia, MO for our 9th celebration honoring Lizzy and families fighting childhood canceryou’re guaranteed to feel inspired and moved by this incredible community gathering! Read full details →
Christina Bohn Memorial 5K for PMDD Awareness
Date: October 17, 2026
Distance: 5K
Join us for this meaningful 5K supporting PMDD awareness, where you can run, walk, or take your time at whatever pace feels right for you. Hosted by the Christina Bohn Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting those with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and Premenstrual… Read full details →
Why Run in Columbia?
Running events in Columbia offer a mix of community fun runs, charity 5Ks, and competitive road races throughout the year. The local running community is active and welcoming to runners of all levels — from first-timers to seasoned racers. Many of these events benefit local charities and organizations, making race day about more than just your finish time.
Find More Races in Missouri
Columbia is just one part of a thriving Missouri running scene. If you want to explore more events across the state, check out our full race listings for Missouri — we track every upcoming running event from 1 mile fun runs to full marathons.
Get Ready to Race
Found a race you want to run? The next step is making sure you are properly trained for it. Whether you are a first-timer aiming to finish or a veteran chasing a PR, having the right training plan makes all the difference.
Take our free 3-question training plan quiz and get matched to the right plan for your fitness level in under a minute. We will send it straight to your inbox so you can start training today.
Good luck out there — see you at the finish line in Columbia!
