Upcoming Races in Columbus, Ohio 2026

Written By: Jeremy N

If you are looking for races in Columbus, Ohio, you have come to the right place. Columbus has a growing running scene with 14 races listed in our directory, including 4 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 Columbus, Ohio

Here is a look at the top upcoming races in Columbus this year. We update our listings weekly so you always have the most current information.

Bikes & Beers Columbus

Date: August 29, 2026

Get ready for a fun community gathering on August 29, 2026, in Columbus, OH, that brings together the excitement of racing with a great social vibe! This event is all about enjoying the thrill of running while connecting with fellow runners in a memorable atmosphere. Read full details →

Register for this Race →


BuckeyeThon 5K

Date: September 6, 2026

Distance: 5K

Join us for this spirited 5K run or walk in Columbus that supports Nationwide Children’s Hospital while celebrating 25 years of the BuckeyeThon Dance Marathon! Read full details →

Register for this Race →


Big Bad Wolfe Run

Date: September 27, 2026

Get ready to howl on Columbus’s smooth Alum Creek Trail on September 27th with race options ranging from a 5K to 20 milesperfect whether you’re prepping for a fall marathon or crushing your summer fitness goals. Read full details →

Register for this Race →


CCYA Bolton Field 5K Run/Walk

Date: October 4, 2026

Distance: 5K

Get ready to liftoff on Sunday, October 4th at Bolton Field’s runway in Columbus for this brand-new 5K run/walk starting at 9:00 AM! All proceeds go toward Capital City Young Aviators, an organization dedicated to inspiring middle and high school students through mentoring,… Read full details →

Register for this Race →

Why Run in Columbus?

Running events in Columbus 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 Ohio

Columbus is just one part of a thriving Ohio running scene. If you want to explore more events across the state, check out our full race listings for Ohio — 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 Columbus!

Hi, Jeremy Here, 

I am the the guy behind Train for a 5K. On this site, I share everything that learned along my running journey. The content I create is the running training I wish I had before we started this journeyAbout Jeremy. 

I have run over 250 races including the California International Marathon, Clarksburg Country Run, and various other 5K & 10K races throughout the United States. I am a former Athletics department employee at University of the Pacific and Shoe Consultant with Dicks Sporting Goods

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