If you are looking for races in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, you have come to the right place. Chapel Hill has a growing running scene with 6 races listed in our directory, including 3 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 Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Here is a look at the top upcoming races in Chapel Hill this year. We update our listings weekly so you always have the most current information.
Cleft Palate Gallop 5K and Fun Walk
Date: September 27, 2026
Distance: 5K
Join us for a great cause on Sunday, September 27th, 2026 at 7:30 AM at the Old Well on UNC-Chapel Hill’s campus for the 17th annual Cleft Palate Gallop! Whether you’re up for the 5K run or prefer the 1. Read full details →
Cleft Palate Gallop 5K and Fun Walk
Date: September 27, 2026
Distance: 5K
Join us for a fantastic morning of running and walking on Sunday, September 27th, 2026 at 7:30 AM on the beautiful UNC-Chapel Hill campus, starting at the iconic Old Well (180 E. Cameron Ave.). Choose your adventure with either a 5K run or a 1. Read full details →
Carrboro 5K/10K
Date: October 3, 2026
Distance: 10K
Head to McDougle Middle School in Chapel Hill bright and early at 8 a.m. to tackle either the 3.1-mile 5K or the challenging 6.2-mile 10K, both winding through charming Carrboro neighborhoods before finishing on the track. Read full details →
Why Run in Chapel Hill?
Running events in Chapel Hill 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 North Carolina
Chapel Hill is just one part of a thriving North Carolina running scene. If you want to explore more events across the state, check out our full race listings for North Carolina — 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 Chapel Hill!
