If you are looking for races in Dayton, Ohio, you have come to the right place. Dayton has a growing running scene with 11 races listed in our directory, including 6 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 Dayton, Ohio
Here is a look at the top upcoming races in Dayton this year. We update our listings weekly so you always have the most current information.
26th Annual African American Wellness Walk: Moving Hearts & Soles
Date: September 12, 2026
Join Premier Health for this beloved community tradition celebrating wellness and healthy living! You can participate however works best for youeither join us in person at Island MetroPark in Dayton on Saturday, September 12th (program starts at 7:30 a.m., walk begins at 8 a.m. Read full details →
20th Annual Lesley E. Smith Memorial 5k
Date: September 13, 2026
Distance: 5K
Get ready to celebrate an incredible community member and support a cause that matters! This year marks the 20th time we’re honoring Lesley E. Read full details →
Attack the Hill Elementary Race
Date: September 26, 2026
Calling all young runners in kindergarten through 6th grade! This cross country event in Dayton, OH welcomes individual participants who want to test their speed on the course, though team runners will have their coaches handle all the sign-up details. Read full details →
Centerville Striders – Attack the Hill Elementary Cross- Country Invitational
Date: September 26, 2026
# Rewritten Description
Get ready to challenge yourself at this cross-country invitational hosted in Dayton, Ohio by the Centerville Striders! You’ll be tackling some hilly terrain as you compete against runners from various schools in this elementary-level event. Read full details →
Anderson 5k Run/Walk
Date: September 26, 2026
Distance: 5K
# Rewritten Description
Lace up and join the community in Dayton for this meaningful 5K run/walk that honors the memory of Kayla Anderson and supports graduating seniors from Vandalia Butler High School through scholarship awards. Read full details →
2026 Outdoor X12 Endurance Run & Ruck
Date: October 3, 2026
Get ready to tackle a fun 12-hour adventure in beautiful Dayton where you’ll run and ruck on a super flat 2.7+ mile loop through Five Rivers Metroparks! Read full details →
Why Run in Dayton?
Running events in Dayton 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
Dayton 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 Dayton!
