Races & Running Events in Stark County
Apr 29, 2026
There are so many races and running events in Stark County. From 5Ks to themed fun runs, your list of races to register for this season is sure to grow a little longer!
No matter what season it is, it's always the perfect time to hit the trails and explore a new community in Stark County with a 5K or even a full Marathon. Spend time with friends or create a new family tradition with one of these events.
MAY
Sweat Now, Wine Later Adventure Race
May 9th | Martindale Park & Gervasi Vineyard
Sign up for an unforgettable adventure that starts on Nimishillen Creek and ends at Gervasi Vineyard! Start at Martindale Park with a 1.5-mile kayak trip to the Middlebranch Trailhead at Spangler Ave, NE. Once you’re ashore, continue the excitement with a 2.5-mile run or walk to Gervasi Vineyard. Cap off the race with a pour of wine or a strawberry sage lemonade at the finish line and celebrate the day by enjoying the beautiful grounds of Gervasi Vineyard. Don’t miss this unique race experience combining nature, fitness, and fun!
Registration Open
Mother of All Races
May 9th | Northwest High School
A race to celebrate mom! The Rotary Club of Canal Fulton's 18th Annual Mother of All Races 10K Run & 5K Run/Walk, all will start and end at Northwest High School at 8:00 AM. Take advantage of special pricing for Mother/Daughter and Mother/Son Teams, maximum two-person team!
Registration Open
Hospital Heroes Against Hunger 5K
May 16th | Stadium Park
Sign up and make a difference! The proceeds from this charitable race will support Cleveland Clinic Mercy Mission Outreach Food Insecurity Program. Your contributions will help fund our biweekly outreach efforts, where prepared meals and vital health information are distributed to neighborhoods in need throughout Canton. Together, we can provide food and hope to the homeless, children, and individuals facing food insecurity. Every step you take helps us nourish our community and promote healthier lives for those in need.
Registration Open
Rae of Sunshine 5K
May 23rd | Umbrella Alley
Celebrate Spring in Umbrella Alley in Louisville with this FUN 5K, hosted by UnHitched Brewing Co. Raeann Guiley was a passionate, vibrant, and bubbly member of the Louisville community. It was her mission to create Umbrella Alley, a place "Where Smiles Happen". Her efforts helped transform Louisville's ugliest alley into a happy gathering place for all people.
Registration Open
HERO 5K Run/Walk
May 25th | Perry High School
The HERO 5K Run/Walk is a looped 3.1 mile run-walk along 13th street in Perry Township. This is the 12th year for the HERO 5K Run/Walk and is an event in conjunction with the Perry Township Flags of Freedom and Perry Project Group. All participants are encouraged to sign up before race day.
Registration Open
Shearer's Chip Chase
May 29th | Brewster Fire Department
Looking for family fun on a Friday night? The 18th Annual Shearer's Food Chip Chase 5K Run/Walk will be held in downtown Brewster with a Kids Fun Run (this is an unmeasured, approx. 100-yard fun run.) All proceeds from the event will benefit the Brewster Fireman Association.
Registration Open
The Iron Pickle 5K
May 30th | Stark County Fairgrounds
Ready for the bragging rights, or should we say Brine-ing rights?? Choose to take on the Iron Pickle Challenge! Select the Iron Pickle add-on and carry either a jar of pickles from the Crazy Cucumber or a giant inflatable pickle across the finish line. Finish strong with your pickle in hand and you'll earn a unique Iron Pickle Award.
Registration Open
Southeast Stride 5K Walk + Run
May 30th | Compton Learning Center
Find your stride and help Habitat for Humanity East Central Ohio continue making an impact in Southeast Canton! Starting at the Southeast Community Playground, all ages are welcome to run, walk, push a stroller, and enjoy getting active while building a stronger community together. Lace up your sneakers, bring the family, and join us for a morning of movement and connection in the heart of SE Canton. Every step is a stride toward a stronger, more vibrant neighborhood.
Registration Open
JUNE
Training Camp 5K - PFHOF Race Series
June 14th | Pro Football Hall of Fame
The Pro Football Hall of Fame Race Series is a community wide effort to improve the health, wellness, and fitness of the Canton area through running and walking. This is the second race in the series and is a 5K that is family-friendly and welcome participants of all ages and abilities.
Registration Open
Night Glow 5K
June 26th | Jackson Memorial Middle School
The Jackson Night Glow is an all-inclusive 5K evening event designed for individuals of all ages. Participants will experience a vibrant night race illuminated by a captivating array of glowing elements. The event features a Kids ½ Mile Fun Run designed for younger participants before the main festivities. It is not just a 5k race, it is an experience: The race features 1,500 luminaries that light the course, booming fireworks to start the race, a 300 foot arch way of lights, rowdy spectators in the neighborhood streets cheering you on, amazing race shirts, glow necklaces, and more!
Registration Open
JULY
North Canton YMCA July 4th Race
July 4th | North Canton YMCA
Get ready to run, walk, or stroll your way to the finish line at this family-friendly event! Celebrate Independence Day in style with music, costume contests, awards, and plenty of fun for participants of all ages.
Registration Open
Women's 6K Festival
July 11th | Centennial Plaza
The Women’s 6K Festival is a one of a kind certified USATF Women’s 6km Championship road race designed for women and girls only. An open community walk/run is hosted as well. The race is designed to empower, inspire, and provide opportunities to the girls and women participating, volunteering, and spectating.
Registration Open
Run to Jesus 5K
July 18th | Centennial Plaza
This race continues the legacy of Team Bernard Prince by running to inspire hope. Bernard shared his vision, “I want to put on a race to help people that are broken, that have been through trauma.” This event celebrates faith, diversity, and the resilience of all abilities and all people. Enjoy live worship music at Centennial Plaza before, during, and after the races. The performances will feature talented local artists, led by Jay Secrest of Perry Christian Church, creating an uplifting and spiritual atmosphere throughout the event.
Registration Open
Miles for Mimosa 5K
July 19th | Gervasi Vineyard
Sign up for an unforgettable experience set against the breathtaking backdrop of Gervasi Vineyard and the scenic trails of Stark Parks. Whether you’re running for a personal best, enjoying a leisurely walk, or celebrating at the finish line with a refreshing mimosa, this race promises a morning filled with beauty, energy, and an incredible vineyard experience.
Registration Open
Up, Up & Away 5K
July 25th | Kent State University - Stark Campus
Don't miss the chance to experience the excitement and beauty of the Kent State University at Stark campus, while hot air balloons float in the sky (weather permitting), on Saturday morning, July 25, for the Up, Up & Away 5K. This event is for both serious and casual runners and walkers.
Registration Open
Bigfoot Trail Challenge
July 25th | Fry Family Park
Get ready for a unique outdoor adventure at Fry Family Park with the Bigfoot Trail Challenge! This exciting 5K course is packed with surprises and activities inspired by the legendary creature itself. Along the trail, you’ll encounter various Bigfoot-themed challenges designed to test your skills. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking to enjoy a fun day outdoors, this family-friendly challenge is an adventure you won’t want to miss! Don't forget to wear your best trail gear, bring your friends, and get ready to run, walk, or jog your way through the course.
Registration Open
AUGUST
AlterClinic Snip Sprint
August 16th | Stadium Park
Sign up for the 4th annual AlterClinic Snip Sprint 5K & 1-Mile Walk, a fun-filled, dog-friendly fundraiser supporting affordable spay/neuter and TNR efforts in our community! Whether you're a seasoned runner or prefer a leisurely stroll, this family-friendly event is a great way to make a difference for animals in need—four-legged friends are welcome to join the fun!
Registration Open
The Classic Kickoff 6K - PFHOF Race Series
August 22nd | Pro Football Hall of Fame
The Pro Football Hall of Fame Race Series is a community wide effort to improve the health, wellness, and fitness of the Canton area through running and walking. This is the third race in the series and is a 6K that is family-friendly and welcome participants of all ages and abilities.
Registration Open
Hall of Fame Half Marathon/Relay | PFHOF Race Series
August 23rd | Pro Football Hall of Fame
The finale of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Race Series, the half marathon and relay is also family-friendly and welcomes participants of all ages and abilities.
Registration Open
SEPTEMBER
Castle Run for Hope
September 7th | Glamorgan Castle
The fifth annual Castle Run for Hope, presented by CommQuest & Alliance Rotary, takes place on Monday, September 7th, 2026. Both organizations share a dedication to build and maintain a healthy community. CommQuest's mission is one of saving lives by providing collaborative care and advocacy for people through three pillars of service: mental health, addiction recovery and social support. Serving tens of thousands of people with social, emotional, and addiction issues survive and live their best lives
Registration Open
Cheeky Monkey 24
September 19th | Veterans Park
This is a 4 person or 8 person team relay event. You decide how to break up the miles. Some will run 1 mile at a time. Some will run a few miles at once. Stay for the full 24 hours or just however long you want to stay. It is up to you! Each team will have a 10x10 space to set up a tented team site. The Lone Ape, you can also run the event solo. Just remember that it is a self-supported effort.
Registration Open
OCTOBER
CAK5K on the Runway
October 4th | Akron-Canton Airport
Enjoy a one of a kind experience running on an actual runway, through the Ohio Air Guard Facility, and a great Start/Finish at the MAPS Air Museum and earn one of the best finisher medals around!
Registration Open
Gervasi Haunted Wine Run 5K
October 10th | Gervasi Vineyard
Like Running or Walking? Love Wine? This race is for you! An exciting "Halloween Themed" event that features the amazing scenery and landscape of Gervasi Vineyard and the beautiful trails of Stark Parks! Whether you are looking to run, walk or just enjoy the wine this race is a sure thing for a great time and an incredible experience!
Registration Open
Sancta Clara Monastery Nun Run
October 17th | St. George Byzantine Catholic
The 5K will run through the neighboring streets, the Middlebranch trail and finally through the monastery grounds with many cheering nuns! The awards ceremony with refreshments and food will follow at St. George's reception hall. All proceeds will benefit The Sancta Clara Monastery & it's renovations.
Registration Opening Soon
OWLoween
October 24th | Raptor Hallow Sanctuary
Kick the night off with a 5K run (or walk) through a natural forest ecosystem. Whether you participate in the 5K or not, all are welcome to encounter one of Raptor Hallow's most mysterious residents as you creep along their 1/4 mile wildlife trail. As night begins to fall, you'll come face to face with owls from across the globe. Staff members will be present to answer your questions and snap your picture as you stand next to, or even hold, our owl ambassadors.
Registration Opening Soon
The Haunted Forest Marathon
October 25th | St. Helena Heritage Park
Welcome to the 6th Annual Haunted Forest Marathon Weekend! This is a family-friendly event featuring a Full Marathon (26.2 miles), a Half Marathon (13.1 miles), and 5K (3.1 miles). This is also a great Boston Qualifier which includes a SECOND medal if you qualify on race day. 18% of our 2025 Marathon participants qualified for Boston. Don't forget the "Smash the PR PUMPKIN" activity if you run a personal best on our course.
Registration Open
The Great Pumpkin Race
October 31st | Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Sign up for the 28th Anniversary Great Pumpkin Race on Halloween day at the Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities! The Great Pumpkin Race is partnering with Run To You Racing and The Haunted Forest Marathon. Those who complete both the Great Pumpkin 4 Miler and any of the Haunted Forest distances will receive a special 9 LIVES CHALLENGE MEDAL!
Registration Open
NOVEMBER
Canton Run Ruck 5K
November 7th | Veterans Park
The Canton Ruck Run 5K is more than a race — it’s a community-driven movement built to honor service, support local veterans, and bring people together with purpose. Whether you ruck, run, or walk, every step you take helps strengthen the lives of those who served our country and the organizations that support them right here in our community. In the inaugural year, this event sold out in just 100 days, raised $4,000 for local veterans’ service organizations, and rallied volunteers to adopt 30 local veterans’ families during the holidays — filling Christmas tree tags and collecting food and toys for the SAM Center. The goal for 2026 is to double participation, expand sponsorship support, and honor even more veterans along the course.
Registration Open
Franksgiving Day 5K
November 14th | Centennial Plaza
Don't miss out on year two where everyone is a Wiener! They've added a few new wrinkles to the 2026 event including the Mount Beanie Weenie Sprint and the Red Hot Tot Trot for those 12 and under. Sign up for hot dogs, chips, and an awesome medal!
Registration Open
Perry Rotary Turkey Trot
November 26th | Central Catholic High School
Come join the Perry Twp. Rotarians and the Perry Community on Thanksgiving Morning for the 30h Annual Perry Twp. Rotary Turkey Trot! This annual event has become a family event that hosts over 2,000 runners/walkers and their families each year.
Registration Open
DECEMBER
Spirit of the Season
December 13th | McKinley Presidential Library & Museum
The Spirit of the Season 5K is a festive holiday-themed race in Canton that is the kick off to the holiday duo with the Frosty Frolic! All participants will receive an event knit hat as part of the registration.
Registration Open
Run Santa Run 5K
December 13th | Louisville High School
Join GCXC Racing, Santa, and hundreds of runners and walkers to fill the streets with holiday spirit for the fourth annual "Run Santa Run 5K & Reindeer Ramble" taking place at Louisville High School. Participants are encouraged to dress "festive"!
Registration Opening Soon
Frosty Frolic
December 19th | McKinley Presidential Library & Museum
The Frosty Frolic is a great family friendly 5k.Where you will be able to see the Christmas lights as you run along Stadium Park Dr. After you finish enjoy cookies and hot chocolate! Runners are encouraged to wear their holiday favorites such as an ugly sweater, holiday costume, or Santa hat!