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Upcoming races to prepare for in the Charleston area

Charleston has a packed list of races to get prepared for through the rest of the year.

individuals running in a race

On your mark, get set go — check out participants from last year’s ARK of SC’s 5K run/walk.

Photo provided by The Ark of SC

Get ready to lace up. The list of races taking place in the Charleston area is packed with runs and walks for all ages and skill levels. Many of these events support local causes, so keep reading to find one that inspires you to prepare for your next race.

Race for the ARK | Saturday, Aug. 24 | Summerville | In its 25th year, this annual race includes a 5K run/walk and a one-mile fun run and ends with a block party with local vendors, food trucks, live music, and kid activities.

9/11 Heroes Run | Saturday, Sept. 14 | Daniel Island | This 5K invites all ages and levels to honor those who we lost on 9/11 and those who still currently serve.

Stronger Together 5K | Saturday, Sept. 21 | Johns Island | Be a part of an inaugural race that takes place at Johns Island County Park and is stroller and pet-friendly.

Cooper River Bridge Run Kids Run | Sunday, Sept. 29 | Charleston | Bring the whole family — this kid run will also feature a family festival with face painting, a jump castle + slide, free hot dogs, and more.

Meatball Run 5K | Saturday, Oct. 5 | Summerville | Before you enjoy the Summerville Italian Feast, take part in the second annual 5K or 1-mile fun run.

Kiawah Island Triathlon | Sunday, Oct. 6 | Kiawah Island | Are you up for the challenge? Swim, bike, and run in this race which is currently the only intermediate-distance triathlon in this area to have an ocean swim.

Turkey Day Run Charleston

The Turkey Run has been a tradition in the Holy City for the last 47 years.

Photo by @turkeydayrun

Avondale 5K | Saturday, Oct. 12 | West Ashley | Run or walk for a cause with this West Ashley race supporting the Charles Webb Center.

James Island Connector Run | Saturday, Oct. 26 | James Island | This event features an 8K run, 5K run, and 5K walk on the James Island Connector (no exit ramps) overlooking the Ashley River and the historic downtown peninsula of Charleston.

Lung FORCE Run/Walk Charleston | Saturday, Nov. 9 | Folly Beach | Walk, jog, or run in the sand to celebrate lung cancer survivors, honor those who died from lung cancer and lung disease, and support those who are affected.

Turkey Day Run | Thursday, Nov. 28 | Charleston | An annual Charleston Thanksgiving tradition, you can run or walk through historic Downtown Charleston.

Cocoa Cup 5K | Saturday, Dec. 7 | Summerville | Whether you’re taking on the 5K or the one-mile kids’ fun run, you’ll love exploring Nexton’s scenic course alongside 2,000 other running enthusiasts.

Kiawah Island Marathon + Half Marathon | Saturday, Dec. 14 | Kiawah Island | This event features a new course with the race starting and beginning in the West Beach Village. Participants will have scenic views as they run through this island community.

Hoppy Holidays 5K | Saturday, Dec. 14 | Charleston | Join the South Carolina Brewery Running Series on December 14th for a festive 5K Fun Run. Dress up in holiday attire, bring the family (including furry friends), and enjoy a lively day with craft brews, prizes, and holiday cheer.

Reindeer Run | Saturday, Dec. 14 | Charleston | Dress up in your favorite festive outfit —you can walk or run in this family and pet-friendly 5K race.

Psst, it’s never too early to register for next year’s Cooper River Bridge Run scheduled for Saturday, April 5, 2025.

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