The crisp fall air has finally arrived, and it’s a great time to lace up your sneakers and run a race for a good cause. Many area races have a kids fun run so it can be a whole family event. If a Turkey Trot is your thing, there are plenty of those to choose from on Thanksgiving Day!
Mom Pro Tip: Many races offer a discount if you register early.
Kansas Running Races
September 28
ASL for All 5k in Olathe, KS
Race is to raise funds to help Olathe become a “Shared Signing Community” where both Deaf and non-Deaf community members use a shared visual language to communicate with one another. There is a 5K and a kids fun run. REGISTER HERE
KC Blind All Stars in Kansas City, KS
Your participation benefits the Athletic Department at KSSB. The foundation provides support for travel to competitions, equipment for the athletic teams, and improvement to the athletic facilities. There is a 5K run and a 1-mile walk. REGISTER HERE
September 29
Overrun Ovarian Cancer in Overland Park, KS
Funds raised will benefit much needed ovarian cancer research at The University of Kansas Cancer Center through The OVERRUN Ovarian Cancer Fund, as well as patient advocacy in the KC Metro hospitals. There is a 5K, 1 mile walk, and a kids fun run. REGISTER HERE
October 5
Louisburg Cider Run in Louisburg, KS
Offers a 5K, 10K, and a kids fun run. Portions of the proceeds are donated to a local charity. REGISTER HERE
October 12
Jared Coones Memorial Pumpkin 5K Run/Walk in Olathe, KS
The funds raised are for research and organizations that support cancer patients and their families. After the 5K there is a 50 yard Tot Trot/Run for the Pumpkins. This fun event, sponsored by the Campbell Family is free for all kids ages 1 to 5. Each kid gets a pumpkin. REGISTER HERE
October 19
Rescue K-911s: The Great Pupkin Run in Overland Park, KS
Raises funds for the Rescue K-911 dog rescue. This is a dog friendly event with a 5K and a 1 mile fun run. REGISTER HERE
October 26
Monster Dash 5K in Overland Park, KS
Put on your Halloween costumes and bring the whole family out for this fun event put on by the KC Running Company. There is a 5K and a Lil’ Monsters’ Kids Run. Money raised goes to Newhouse. REGISTER HERE
November 23
Coach Yantis 5K Run and Walk in Olathe, KS
Funds raised go to the Brad Yantis scholarship fund at MNU and the American Cancer Society-Hope Lodge KC. There is a 5K and a Tot Trot for kids 8 and under. REGISTER HERE
November 24
Gobbler Grind in Overland Park, KS
This is a marathon, half-marathon, 10K, and 5K on the Sunday before Thanksgiving. REGISTER HERE
November 28
Thanksgiving Day 5K Run and Family Stroll in Overland Park, KS
Some of the funds raised go to Operation Breakthrough. Runners can bring donations from the Operation Breakthrough wishlist as well. The 5K is followed by a fun run for kids. REGISTER HERE
December 8
Jingle Bell Run in Overland Park, KS
This event supports the Arthritis Foundation. There is a timed and untimed 5K option and pictures with Santa before the race! REGISTER HERE
Missouri Running Races
September 28
Swifty Fun Run in KCMO (Longview Lake)
This race is put on by MSE Racing and there is a 5K, 10K, and half marathon option. There is also a 1-mile walk/jog perfect for kids. Participants are encouraged to dress up like Taylor Swift. There will be crafts, friendship bracelet making, and of course lots of music! REGISTER HERE
October 6
Oktoberfest 5K in Martin City, MO
This is a KC Running Club race that includes a 5K and a kids run. Proceeds of the 2024 Oktoberfest 5k will benefit The International Dyslexia Association’s (IDA) Kansas and Missouri Branch. REGISTER HERE
October 13
Bill Cross 5K at Zona Rosa
This event raises money for Feed Northland Kids. There is a timed and untimed 5K for adults and kids and a free Kids Trot for kids 6 and under. REGISTER HERE
October 26
Spooky Sprint in Lee’s Summit, MO
This includes a 5k, 10k, half marathon, 1 mile, and a kid’s dash. After the race, there’s a costume contest, music, food and drinks, and trick or treat aid stations. REGISTER HERE
October 27
The Spirits Run 5K in Martin City, MO
This run has breakfast options included in your race fee at various Martin City restaurants. There is a 5K and a kid’s run. REGISTER HERE
November 9
Onesie Funsie Rhino Run in the Northland
This event is at St. Pius X High School raises funds to support young women in their educational endeavors in the fields of wildlife and environmental conservation. There is a 5K and a 100 meter dash for kids 8 and under. Stay after for lots of fun family activities. REGISTER HERE
November 28 (Thanksgiving Day)
Gillham Road GobbleTrot 5K in KCMO
Come out on Thanksgiving for a 5K and children’s dash. Proceeds go to the Pilgrim Center. REGISTER HERE
Hillcrest Hope Giving Thanks 5K in Liberty, MO
This race raises funds for Hillcrest Hope: a nonprofit organization that works to empower the homeless and working poor to achieve personal independence through transitional housing, accountability, education, and community support. REGISTER HERE
Kansas City Turkey Trot in KCMO
Race takes place at Swope Park. Participate in a 5K Run/Walk, 5K kids division, and a kid’s dash for kids 8 and under. REGISTER HERE
Ward Parkway Thanksgiving Day Run in KCMO
This run offers a 1 mile, 5K, 10K, downhill mile run, and a tiny turkey trot for kids 12 and under. REGISTER HERE
December 14
Candy Cane Course in Lee’s Summit, MO
This holiday themed race offers a 1 mile, 5K, 12K, and kid’s dash. REGISTER HERE
Westport Santa Dash in KCMO
Don your best Santa suit and run this 1K or 5K with your friends. Kids can run in the elf dash. REGISTER HERE
December 15
Candy Cane Course in Liberty, MO
This race has a 1 mile, 5K, 12K, and kid’s dash. REGISTER HERE
