Colorado, renowned for its stunning landscapes and active community, is a mecca for fitness enthusiasts. A testament to the state's vibrant running culture, fun runs light up the calendars of both locals and tourists, serving as rallying points for a shared love of fitness and the great outdoors.
As 2024 unfolds, Colorado's fun run series offers an array of events that cater to all types of runners. Lace up your sneakers and join the movement as we highlight some of the most-anticipated fun runs in the Centennial State this year.
Colorado Fun Runs Scheduled for 2024
*This is a living schedule and will be updated as we learn more. Refresh for the latest!
March 2024
- Runnin' of the Green
- When: March 10, 2024
- Where: Washington Park, Denver
- St. Patrick's Day 5K
- When: March 16, 2024
- Where: Dorchester Street, Highlands Ranch
- Shamrock Stampede - Lucky 10K
- When: March 16, 2024
- Where: Douglas County Event Center, Castle Rock
April 2024
- Donut Dash
- When: April 7, 2024
- Where: Washington Park, Denver
- Horsetooth Half Marathon
- When: April 14, 2024
- Where: Horsetooth Mountain, Fort Collins
- Time Travel Half-Marathon (And 5K/10K)
- When: April 20, 2024
- Where: Parking Lot South of The Westin Westminster, Westminster
- Unicorn 5K (Denver East)
- When: April 21, 2024
- Where: Great Lawn Park, Denver
May 2024
- Greenland Trail Races - 50K, 25K, 8-Mile, 4-Mile
- When: May 4, 2024
- Where: Greenland Open Space, Larkspur
- Duck Waddle 5K
- When: May 4, 2024
- Where: Lake Estes Trail, Estes Park
- HRCA Mother's Day 5K
- When: May 11, 2024
- Where: Cresthill Middle School, Highlands Ranch
- Denver Mother's Day 5K
- When: May 12, 2024
- Where: City Park, Denver
- Memorial Day Run & March
- When: May 18, 2024
- Where: Douglas County High School, Castle Rock
- Miles for Smiles 5K
- When: May 19, 2024
- Where: North Area Athletic Complex, Arvada
June 2024
- Flamingo Day 5K
- When: June 2, 2024
- Where: Sloan's Lake Park, Denver
July 2024
- Cookie Chase
- When: July 13, 2024
- Where: Sloan's Lake Park, Denver
September 2024
- Labor Day Half Marathon
- When: September 2, 2024
- Where: Salisbury Park, Parker
October 2024
- Ghosts & Goblins 5K/10K
- When: October 27, 2024
- Where: City Park, Denver
November 2024
- Pumpkin Pie 5K/10K
- When: November 16, 2024
- Where: City Park, Denver
December 2024
- Ugly Sweater 5K
- When: December 15, 2024
- Where: Washington Park, Denver
Tips for Fun Run Participants
Whether a fun run is a regular part of your fitness routine or you're lacing up for the first time, these tips will help ensure an enjoyable experience:
- Training: Start your training regimen well in advance, gradually increasing your distance as the event date approaches. Be sure to include hill training if the course is challenging.
- Gear Up: Invest in a good pair of running shoes that suit your gait and foot type. Wear moisture-wicking clothes to stay comfortable and prevent chafing.
- Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet with an emphasis on carbohydrates for fuel. Learn which pre-race and mid-race snacks agree with your stomach and energize you best.
- Etiquette: Practice common trail and running event etiquette, such as staying to the right except to pass, sharing the trail, and allowing faster runners to overtake safely.
- Hydration: Stay adequately hydrated before, during, and after the run. Familiarize yourself with the event's water station locations and plan your drinking strategy.
- Celebration: Post-run celebrations are often just as fun as the run itself. Take the time to socialize, indulge in refreshments, and, most importantly, pat yourself on the back for your accomplishment.
Benefits of Participating in Fun Runs
Fun runs aren't just about fitness; they're also about community and personal achievement. Here are a few benefits that might just pique your interest:
Physical Fitness
Participating in fun runs is an excellent way to stay in shape, improve endurance, and foster a healthy lifestyle. With a vast selection of distances and terrains, you can continually challenge yourself and set new fitness goals.
Community Engagement
Running alongside fellow enthusiasts creates a sense of camaraderie that often extends beyond the event. Joining a local running community can lead to lasting friendships and a support network that encourages your fitness endeavors.
Mental Well-Being
The endorphin rush after a good run is no myth. Fun runs can uplift your mood, reduce stress, and provide a mental boost, thanks to the sense of accomplishment and the beauty of the surroundings.
Colorado's 2024 fun runs promise a year full of spirited competitions, awe-inspiring routes, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. With each event offering its unique flair, runners of all levels are encouraged to jump in and experience the collective passion for fitness that Colorado exudes. Lace up, step out, and be a part of this year's fitness festival in the Centennial State – there's a fun run for everyone.
