Upcoming Races in Mesa, Arizona 2026

Written By: Jeremy N

If you are looking for races in Mesa, Arizona, you have come to the right place. Mesa has a growing running scene with 6 races listed in our directory, including 2 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 Mesa, Arizona

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

One Flag Forward – Phoenix, AZ

Date: September 12, 2026

# Rewritten Description

Calling all runners to Mesa, AZ this September 12-16, 2026, to be part of something meaningful! As a flag travels across the country from Ground Zero to the Global War on Terrorism Memorial, you’ll join communities nationwide for a 2. Read full details →

Register for this Race →


Desert Twilight XC Festival Community 5k

Date: September 25, 2026

Distance: 5K

Lace up and join us in Mesa for an electrifying evening at Arizona’s premier cross country celebration, where you’ll run a beautifully lit 5k course through grass, dirt, and cart paths alongside some of the nation’s top high school competitors across 19 races! Read full details →

Register for this Race →

Why Run in Mesa?

Running events in Mesa 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 Arizona

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

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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