If you are looking for races in Parkersburg, West Virginia, you have come to the right place. Parkersburg has a growing running scene with 11 races listed in our directory, including 0 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 Parkersburg, West Virginia
Here is a look at the top upcoming races in Parkersburg this year. We update our listings weekly so you always have the most current information.
River City Kids Classic
Date: August 16, 2026
Ready to wrap up the 2025 Kids Series season in style? Join us for the grand finale at Parkersburg High School’s Stadium Field, where you’ll get a one-of-a-kind commemorative shirt (only 200 available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early for your size!). Read full details →
Kid’s Summer Bash
Date: July 11, 2026
Head to the Parkersburg High School campus for a fun weekend run that kicks off with some serious cooling-off action! Kona Ice and the Parkersburg Fire Department will keep everyone refreshed with water fun on the lawn, while the Parkersburg Police will be on hand to show kids… Read full details →
JR’s Donut Dads Day Race
Date: June 13, 2026
Celebrate Father’s Day 2026 at Parkersburg Point Park by running a kids race along the scenic new river trail inside the flood wall, then enjoy tasty donuts with your dad afterward. Read full details →
Parkersburg News and Sentinel Half Marathon and Two Mile Race
Date: August 15, 2026
Distance: Half Marathon
Join this exciting championship event in Parkersburg, WV that features both a half marathon and a two-mile race, with the half marathon kicking off at 8:00 a.m. Read full details →
Kicks4Kids 5K Run/Walk
Date: July 11, 2026
Distance: 5K
Founded in 2011 by firefighter Andy Nestor, this Parkersburg 5K aims to distribute free athletic shoes to children who need them but can’t afford them, working with local school nurses to identify deserving kids. Read full details →
River City Runner and Walkers Beginner’s Clinic 2026
Date: February 7, 2026
Join Missy Wigal and her crew of seasoned runners and walkers in Parkersburg, WV for a welcoming clinic designed to help you begin your fitness journey. This beginner-focused event offers you supportive coaching whether you prefer to run or walk. Read full details →
RCRW Running/Walking Series 26
Date: January 20, 2026
Looking for a free way to stay active in Parkersburg? This brand new series offers 6 exciting events3 on roads and 3 on trailsstarting June 20, 2026 at Chick-fil-A, with membership in RCRWC required by March 1. Read full details →
MOV Out of the Darkness 5K
Date: June 13, 2026
Distance: 5K
Head to Parkersburg’s North Bend Rail Trail for this meaningful 5K dedicated to suicide prevention and supporting the American Foundation for Suicide Preventionyour entry helps raise both awareness and funds for an important cause. Read full details →
Why Run in Parkersburg?
Running events in Parkersburg 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 West Virginia
Parkersburg is just one part of a thriving West Virginia running scene. If you want to explore more events across the state, check out our full race listings for West Virginia — 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 Parkersburg!
