Fall is the perfect time for a brisk run. The leaves are changing colors, the holidays are quickly approaching, and there’s a distinct chill in the air. So, lace up your running shoes for these fall fun runs.
Holy Trinity Lutheran Oktoberfest Fun Run
September 30, 10 a.m.
This one-mile fun run is free for all ages. Doughnuts and pretzels will be served after the race, along with beer, courtesy of Solace Outpost. Donations will benefit the Lutheran Disaster Response, which helps those impacted by U.S. fires and hurricanes. 3022 Woodlawn Ave., Falls Church, free, registration required, beer extra
Navy Federal 5K
September 30, 9–10:15 a.m.
Navy Federal Credit Union hosts its 29th annual 5K race that benefits three organizations, including the Committee for Helping Others, a Vienna-based nonprofit that provides emergency financial assistance and food for those in need. Runners will receive a commemorative T-shirt and race bib; light refreshments will be provided after the race. 820 Follin Ln. SE, Vienna, $15–$23 registration fee
Paws ’n Pints 5K
October 1, 10 a.m.
The Homeless Animals Rescue Team hosts its inaugural Paws ’n Pints 5K in tandem with Mustang Sally Brewing. Runners receive a limited-edition T-shirt, one beer or non-alcoholic beverage coupon, a professional finisher photo, and a race bib with the price of registration. HART will have dogs available for adoption. 14140 Parke Long Ct., Ste. A-C, Chantilly, $45 registration fee before September 29 at noon, $50 registration fee day of race
McLean 5K
October 7, 8 a.m.
Benefiting the McLean Community Center, this 5K race is designed for runners of any experience. The fastest male and female runners win a seven-day vacation at any Wyndam Resort. 6655 Old Dominion Dr., McLean, $45 registration fee before October 4, $50 registration fee day of race
Girls Gotta Run 3K and 6K
October 7, 8:30–10:30 a.m.
Take the scenic drive out to Barrel Oak Winery and Brewery for this race benefiting Girls Gotta Run, a nonprofit that uses running to empower young girls in Ethiopia. Runners can choose between a 3K or 6K race, and registration includes a commemorative T-shirt, finisher’s medal, and a glass of wine from Barrel Oak. 3623 Grove Ln., Delaplane, $35 registration fee day of race (3K), $45 registration fee day of race (6K)
5K Beer Run at Dynasty Brewing
October 14, 11 a.m.
The Virginia Brewery Running Series is back for this 5K fun run at Dynasty Brewing. A portion of the proceeds benefits area nonprofits, and runners will receive a pint of beer and a choice of a collector’s pint glass or seasonal clothing item. 101 Loudoun St. SE, Leesburg, $32 registration fee
2023 Friends of Reston Fall 5K
October 15, 8 a.m.
Take to the streets of Reston for the 5K fun run hosted by Friends of Reston, a nonprofit devoted to community enrichment, environmental education, and scholarships. Runners will receive a commemorative T-shirt. 1575 Brown’s Chapel Rd., Reston, $40 registration fee before October 1, $45 registration fee after October 1
We’ve Got Your Back 5K and Fun Run
October 15, 8 a.m.
The National Spine Health Foundation hosts its 15th annual 5K and 1-mile fun run race, bringing awareness to spinal problems. 11800 Sunrise Valley Dr., Reston, $35 registration fee 14 and younger for 5K, $45 registration fee 15 and up for 5K, $35 for fun run
Drug Demand Reduction Dash 5K
October 21, 8–10 a.m.
Held in remembrance of Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, a Drug Enforcement Administration officer who lost his life in the line of duty, this 5K benefits the Young Marines, a national nonprofit committed to improving youth through academic achievement and a drug-free lifestyle. Runners receive a commemorative T-shirt and finisher’s medal. 18900 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Triangle, $25 registration fee before race day, $30 registration fee day of race
Ghost 5K & Scarecrow Sprint Fun Run
October 28, 4 p.m.
Get ready for spooky season with this ghoulish 5K and fun run. Runners receive a commemorative T-shirt and glow-in-the-dark finisher’s medal. Be sure to arrive in your best Halloween outfit for the best costume contest. 44427 Atwater Dr., Ashburn, $32.95 registration fee for 5K, $22.35 for fun run
Feature image courtesy Potomac River Running
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