Mar

Why Spring Is The Best Time For Runners In DC

Lifestyle

Spring is already known for its cool-yet-sunny temps, which make running a breeze, especially in our nation’s capital. But did you know about all the races slated to be held in DC over the next few months — many for great causes — that can help you take advantage of the amazing weather in stride? Whether you’re new to running or a seasoned pro, we’ve rounded up this list of the races around town you can’t miss this spring!

Looking for inspiration on staying fit? Click here to read our list of the best spots to play pickleball in DC.

#1 DC Scope It Out 5K | Sunday, March 24, 2024: Join your team at the National Mall on Sunday, March 24, 2024 to walk or run DC ScopeItOut. Register today, fundraise, build your team, and get ready to walk or run during colorectal cancer awareness month. For those not able or not yet comfortable being in person, you’re cordially invited to walk or run in your own neighborhood as a virtual ScopeItOut Coast to Coast participant!

#2 Cherry Blossom 10 Miler and 5K | Saturday, April 6, 2024 and Sunday, April 7, 2024: What better way to celebrate cherry blossom season than with an iconic downtown run? Every year, locals and visitors alike descend on DC to take part in this festive annual race. Hosted by the Credit Union, race proceeds support Children’s Hospitals that belong to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, a non-profit international organization that helps to treat millions of children across the US and Canada. Since a consortium of credit unions became the title sponsor of the race in 2002, the race has donated nearly $9 million to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

#3 PNC Parkway Classic | Sunday, April 28, 2024 | Alexandria, VA: Born in 1984 as the George Washington Parkway Classic, this event is among the most panoramic and spacious distance races on the East Coast. From the serene beauty of the lush and vibrant Northern Virginia landscape to the beautiful views of the Potomac and the charming streets of Alexandria, the PNC Parkway Classic is a journey that celebrates the simple joys of road racing set to scenery.

Looking for more ways to spend time outdoors as the weather heats up? Check out these other great summer activities around DC.

#4 Capitol Hill Classic | Sunday, May 19, 2024 | Washington, DC: The 43rd annual National Capital Bank Capitol Hill Classic is coming on May 19th, 2024! Washington’s largest and oldest 10K will bring runners through the roadways of historic Capitol Hill, winding past the US Capitol, the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress, the Folger Shakespeare Library, Lincoln Park, East Capitol Street, and the Fields at RFK; they’ll also have their regular 3K and kids’ fun run that will follow the 10K.

#5 Baltimore Ten Miler | Saturday, June 1, 2024: This year, the Baltimore 10-miler returns to its traditional location at Druid Hill Park, just outside the Maryland Zoo. A challenging yet fair course, the 10-miler takes participants through parts of Baltimore that are often under-appreciated, from the comfort of a car. The premiums for this race never disappoint, and the post-party race is a fitting reward for finishers, complete with cold towels, fresh watermelon, and icy craft beer to sip while listening to live music on the spacious lawn of the zoo.

#6 DC Front Runners Pride Run 5K | Friday, June 7, 2024: Celebrate Pride with this 12th annual 5K run at the Historic Congressional Cemetery on Friday, June 7, 2024. Registration is $45 and includes a commemorative t-shirt, medal, after party with a live DJ, drag performances, and beer/hard seltzer provided by DC Brau. Come join over 1,200 runners as they kick off Pride Weekend 2024 with a running start. Don’t forget to contribute to one of our charity partners when registering. Every dollar donated goes directly to the charity you’ve chosen!