14 Fun (and Spooky!) Fall Races to Run Around Philadelphia

Find new motivation to hit the trails with these fun fall races.


fall races

Just think of all the leaf-filled runs you’ll take thanks to these fall races around Philly. Photograph by iStock/Jandrielombard.

There are a myriad of reasons why people love fall: the pumpkin treats, apple picking and, of course, the cozy clothes. But an often-overlooked aspect of fall is it’s prime running weather. It’s not too hot, so you won’t want to die at mile one from heat exhaustion and dehydration, but it’s also not so cold that you need to wear every piece of running clothing you own.

That said, there are tons of fall races going on this season that you’ll want to check out. See for yourself the spooky, fun, fall races on the books in Philadelphia this year.

If you’re into leafy views and fall vibes

Apples and Honey Fun Run
What: Soak up the beauty of fall within city limits at this fun run benefitting Congregation Shaare Shamayim’s Cook for a Friend program, which provides warm meals for those in need in the northeast.
Where: Pennypack Trail
When: Sunday, October 21, 2018; 8:30 a.m.
Price: $25. Tickets here.

The Pumpkin 5K
What: Here, a family-friendly 5K turns into an all-day affair with the added bonus of a family health festival boasting a costume competition and plenty of other fall fun.
Where: 351 George Williams Way, Newark
When: Saturday, October 27, 2018; 11 a.m.
Price: $30. Tickets here.

Starry Night Walk and 5K Run
What: This run celebrates local families that have lost a child to a brain tumor. Run to fundraise for a cure and critical support for families in need.
Where: The Navy Yard, 4747 Broad Street, South Philly
When: Saturday, November 3, 2018; 3 p.m.
Price: No registration fee, but there’s a $100 fundraising minimum requirement. Sign up here.

Kennett Brewing Company Harvest Run
What: Kennett Brewing Company is hosting a month-long food drive during October and race day is the end of the drive. All proceeds from the food drive and race will benefit Kennett Food Cupboard.
Where: Anson B. Nixon Park, 405 North Walnut Road, Kennett Square
When: Saturday, November 10, 2018; 2 p.m.
Price: $30. Tickets here.

SWCC 5K Run
What: Experience the neighborhoods of Southwest Center City during one of the prettiest seasons in this 5K to benefit Friends of Chester Arthur and Stanton Community Partners. The morning will include a 5K, a 1.5-mile Monster Mile for children ages six to 14, and a Spooky Sprint for the kiddos under six.
Where: E.M. Stanton Elementary School, 1700 Christian Street
When: Saturday, October 27, 2018; 8 a.m.
Price: $35

If you’re into getting spooky

Phoenixville Zombie Run
What: Traverse a chilling zombie-filled 3.1-miles in this all-ages-welcome race during which zombies will try to “kill you” by pulling at your flag football-style flags during the course. 
Where: 200 Mill Street, Phoenixville
When: Sunday, October 21, 2018; 9 a.m.
Price: $35. Tickets here 

Zombie Chase 5K
What: This all-ages run welcomes folks to clock a brisk 3.1-miles scattered with spooky souls to benefit the Garfield Elementary School.
Where: Garfield Elementary School, 480 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood
When: Saturday, October 27, 2018; 7:30 a.m.
Price: Starting at $20. Tickets here.

Knight of the Living Dead Zombie 5K
What: If The Walking Dead is your favorite show, then this is the race for you: Zombies will be chasing you IRL for this race while trying to swipe your flag football-style flags. Dodge the zombies to get back to the finish line with as many flags as possible.
Where: Rustin High School Stadium, 1100 Shiloh Road, West Chester
When: Saturday, October 27, 2018; 1 p.m.
Price: $25. Tickets here.

Monster Mash Dash
What: Hop on board for a 5K run or walk, Spooky Sprint, or Monster Run before jamming to some Halloween tunes, participating in a costume contest, and trick or treating.
Where: Anson B. Nixon Park, 405 North Walnut Road, Kennett Square
When: Sunday, October 28, 2018; 9 a.m.
Price: $28. Tickets here.

Run4UrLife 5K
What: MANNA’s fifth annual timed 5K through West Laurel Hill Cemetery provides some spooky vibes — and the chance to compete in costume. Register for the 5K, or bring along the little ones for the Trick or Treat Dash.
Where: West Laurel Hill Cemetery, 225 Belmont Avenue, Bala Cynwyd
When: Saturday, October 20, 2018; 9 a.m.
Price: $35. Tickets here.

Skeleton Skurry
What: This 5K race is perfect for runners who want to get a little spooky without waking up at 8 a.m.
Where: 44 Swamp Pike, Limerick
When: Sunday, October 28, 2018; 2 p.m.
Price: Starts at $25. Tickets here.

If you’re in it for the post-run refuel 

Boo and Brew 5K
What: This family-friendly costume run welcomes all to participate in a 5K or one-mile fun run that ends with an after party at Neshaminy Brewing Company featuring beer, food trucks, and fall fun.
Where: 3401 State Road in Neshaminy State Park
When: Sunday, October 14, 2018; 9:30 a.m.
Price: Starts at $30. Tickets here.

 Fall Harvest 10K, 5K and Lil’ Pumpkin Kid’s Run
What: In addition to three runs suitable for the whole family, this event is brimming with fall festivities such as a corn maze, free locally-made pumpkin ice cream, and more.
Where: The Market at DelVal, 2100 Lower State Road, Doylestown
When: Saturday, October 27, 2018; 9 a.m.
Price: Starting at $20. Tickets here.

CKC Cider Run
What: Trek through 3.1-miles of scenic fruit groves on the Highland Orchard farm. All participants score free apple cider and apple cider doughnuts. Be sure to stay for the after party, including food trucks and craft beer.
Where: Highland Orchards, 1000 Marshallton Thorndale Road, West Chester
When: Saturday, November 3, 2018; 9 a.m.
Price: $20. Tickets here.

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