Boston Race Guide: Late Summer & Early Fall 2026

Boston's race calendar is packed this summer and fall — and whether you're chasing a PR, running your first 5K, or just looking for a fun reason to get outside, there's something on this list for you. Here's your guide to upcoming races around Boston and Greater Boston.

August Races

Strides for Mothers 5K Run & 2.5K Walk 
📍 Brighton | August 22
Choose between a 5K run or a 2.5K walk at this community-focused event in Brighton.

5K Beer Run x Distraction Brewing Company 
📍 Roslindale | August 22
Run, then celebrate your finish at Distraction Brewing Company. This 5K is part of the Brewery Running Series and is a fun option for runners looking to combine miles with a post-race social.

Boston Latin Academy Dragon 5K 
📍 Dorchester | August 29
Head to Dorchester for the Boston Latin Academy Dragon 5K on the final weekend of August.

September Races

Chelsea Road Race
📍 Chelsea | September 5
Held in Chelsea, Massachusetts, the 3rd annual road race invites participants to experience a scenic route that winds through the heart of the community, passing by cherished local landmarks.

Beantown Marathon 
📍 Hingham | September 6
The Beantown Marathon offers the full 26.2 mile distance in scenic Hingham over Labor Day weekend.

Boston 5K Summer Series 

📍 Cambridge | September 10
Bridge the gap between summer and fall with this 5K in Cambridge on September 10.

Boston Waterfront 5K 
📍 Seaport | September 12
Take in the waterfront while getting your miles in at this September 5K in Boston's Seaport neighborhood to support The McCourt Foundation.

6th Annual 5K/10K + Walk 
📍 Hyde Park | September 13
Choose your distance with 5K, 10K and walking options at this Hyde Park event.

Charlie Card Challenge 
📍 Boston | September 18
A unique spin on getting around Boston — the Charlie Card Challenge sends participants on a city-wide adventure using the MBTA. Perfect for anyone who loves a good city challenge with a running twist.

Run for the Dogs 5K 
📍 Dorchester | September 19
Grab your running shoes — and maybe your pup — and head to Dorchester for the Run for the Dogs 5K.

Glen Doherty Memorial Road Race 
📍 Winchester | September 20
This annual road race takes place in Winchester in memory of Glen Doherty.

Boston 5K Summer Series 
📍 Cambridge | September 24
The Boston 5K Series keeps going into fall with another Cambridge 5K

St. Jude Walk/Run 
📍 Boston | September 26
Join the St. Jude Walk/Run in Boston and get your miles in while supporting the lifesaving work of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

St. Mary's 5K 
📍 Brookline | September 26
Head to Brookline for the St. Mary's 5K on September 26.

EmpowerHer Fun 5K 
📍 Dorchester | September 26
Close out the month with the EmpowerHer Fun 5K in Dorchester by The Chica Project.

Port Run Half Marathon & 5K 
📍 Newburyport | September 27
End the month with a race day in Newburyport. Choose between a 5K and half marathon distance.

October Races

Get Your Rear in Gear 
📍 Carson Beach, South Boston | October 3
A timed 5K along Boston Harbor starting at Mother's Rest and turning around at the South Boston Yacht Club — all in support of colon cancer awareness and prevention. A beautiful course for a great cause.

DEF Dash 5K
📍 Barnes Memorial Park, Dedham | October 4
A community 5K through Dedham benefiting the Dedham Education Foundation — a low-key, family-friendly way to kick off the weekend just outside the city.

Smuttynose Rockfest Half Marathon & 5K 
📍 Hampton Beach, NH | October 4
Make the trip up to Hampton Beach for one of New England's most scenic fall races along the New Hampshire coast. Choose between the half marathon and 5K, then stick around for the epic post-race party with Smuttynose craft beer and lobster rolls.

Fall Classic 5K 
📍 Cambridge | October 4
A fast and flat 5K along Mass Ave in the heart of downtown Cambridge — perfect for a PR attempt or a fun fall morning out. Post-race party includes two drink tickets redeemable at Cambridge Brewing Company. Benefits the Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School Track Team.

Boston 10K for Women 
📍 Boston Common | October 10
A Boston fall running tradition — the Boston 10K for Women brings runners together for a 10K through the city.

Empower Walk & 5K Run 
📍 Boston Common | October 11
Keep the momentum going with the Empower Walk & 5K Run on Boston Common in support of Autism Speaks.

Baystate Marathon & Half Marathon
📍 Lowell | October 18
One of New England's longest-running fall marathons, with a marathon, half marathon, and relay along the Merrimack River — a Boston Marathon qualifier and a favorite for runners chasing a fall PR.

Around Cape Ann Half Marathon
📍 Gloucester | October 18
A rolling, scenic half marathon that traces the rocky coastline of Cape Ann, about 40 minutes north of Boston — one of the prettiest courses in the state if you don't mind the drive.

Cambridge Half Marathon + 5K 
📍 CambridgeSide, Cambridge | October 31 (5K) & November 1 (Half Marathon)
One of the best race weekends of the fall. The 5K kicks off Saturday October 31 along the Charles River with views of the Boston skyline, followed by the half marathon Sunday November 1 — a flat, fast 13.1-mile course along Memorial Drive past MIT and Harvard Stadium.

Ready to Race?

Whether you're chasing a PR, toeing the start line for the first time, or just want a fun reason to get outside with your crew — pick a race, put it on the calendar, and go. And if you need support along the way, check out the Fit Scene Boston Running Resources page for local coaches, physical therapists, and gait analysis. Everything you need to run smarter, stay healthy, and reach your goals.

And if you’re looking for more ways to get moving, check out Fit Scene Boston for local run clubs, fitness events, studios, gyms and running resources—all in one place.

Race dates and details can change, so be sure to check the official race website before registering.