5K races near Groton

Rhode Island DEM rules mandate that all participants and volunteers at the Run for the Pumpkins Trail Run wear at least 200 square inches of orange. This fall 5K and 10K trail event takes place at Bradford Preserve in Westerly, Rhode Island, with both races starting and ending at the preserve. The route starts with approximately one-third of a mile across an open grass field, allowing runners to spread out before entering the narrower trails. The course then proceeds primarily on dirt trails through Town of Westerly land and a section of Woody Hill Management Area, featuring both double-track and single-track paths. Course markings include flags and signs, complemented by seasonal decorations such as ghosts to enhance the pumpkin-themed atmosphere. While walkers are welcome, they are encouraged to opt for the 5K distance; dogs and strollers are not permitted on the course. Prizes will be awarded to the top overall male and female finishers and to winners in each age group, with food and refreshments provided to all participants post-race.

The Ivoryton Pumpkin Chase begins at Ivoryton Library in Ivoryton, Connecticut. It includes a 5K road-and-trail race and a Kiddie Pumpkin Fun Run for children age 7 and under. The event takes place during peak foliage season in southern New England, and registration includes a T-shirt. The race supports the Ivoryton Library and its programs, with assistance from the Essex Land Trust. The 5K route starts with approximately half a mile on North Main Street, then proceeds onto Falls River Drive before entering Falls River Preserve near the one-mile point. Within the preserve, participants navigate a 1.1-mile loop alongside the Falls River. The trail consists of about half a mile of double track followed by hilly, rocky single track. This combination of village road, preserve trail, and a family race distinguishes it as a local fall event.

Ocean State Rhode Races is a running series in Rhode Island organized by Rhode Races & Events, featuring races and activities across the state. The broader Ocean State Multisport group, based in New England, organizes USAT and USATF sanctioned road races, triathlons, and duathlons. Their stated goal is to encourage more people to exercise and gain the confidence to participate in sanctioned events. The series functions as a tour of Rhode Island's cities and towns, rather than concentrating events in a single location. Participants can enter individual races or compete in three or more events to achieve Rhode Master status. The organizers also provide virtual events for those seeking a race-like objective from home. The merchandise reflects the local theme with "13.1 Run RI" and "26.2 Run RI" stickers, alongside race shirts for events like Newport, Bristol, and the Ocean State half marathon.

The St. Michael School 5K Turkey Trot is a fall road race in Pawcatuck, Connecticut, starting at 9:00 AM and held regardless of weather. The primary event is a timed 5K for runners and walkers, providing official results for those aiming for a personal best or seeking a measured local race. A 1-mile untimed fun run, beginning simultaneously, is intended for children and participants preferring a shorter, less demanding distance. The event supports St. Michael School and marks its 16th year. Race-day check-in is available before the start. The format is straightforward: run or walk, gather afterward, and remain for food, drinks, prizes, and an awards ceremony for the 5K. The registration process also reflects the community focus, offering a lower-cost fun run and a shirt deadline for early registrants.

The Salute the Troops race day is a Wisconsin fundraiser featuring several distances: a 10K, the Dobogai Memorial 5K, a kids' race, a fun run, and a Soldier Stroll. The 10K begins at Lakeside Park in Fond du Lac with a three-hour time limit, suitable for steady racers and those seeking a manageable community race supporting a veterans' cause. The event raises funds for military veterans. Awards are presented to the overall male and female finishers, age-group winners (0-14 to 70+), and the top male and female veteran finishers. Plaques are given to the two overall winners. This marks the 15th annual edition, with organizers relying on sponsors, volunteers, and returning participants to sustain the event.

The Stonington Vineyards Wine Run Turkey Trot 5k is a Thanksgiving-themed 5k held at Stonington Vineyards in Stonington, Connecticut. It is designed for those seeking a relaxed race day, offering opportunities to run or walk, followed by wine tasting. The course winds through the vineyard, with the rows of vines and the surrounding Connecticut landscape offering as much appeal as the 5k itself. Stonington Vineyards, a founding member of the Connecticut Wine Trail, produces wines including barrel-fermented Chardonnay, Seaport White, and Triad Rose. J3 Timing provides the race timing and scoring, with results available on their website post-race.

The Norwich Winterfest 5K begins at Kelly Middle School in Norwich, Connecticut, starting at 10:00 AM and finishing at 25 Mahan Drive. This winter holiday 5K is open to runners and walkers, with a virtual option available for those wishing to support the cause from afar during the race weekend. The event supports Reliance Health, Inc., a nonprofit community mental health center serving Eastern Connecticut. The course winds through Mohegan Park and along the Spaulding Lake Path, offering a park-and-lake setting rather than a simple road loop. Families can bring younger children for a free Fit Kids Fun Run, featuring quarter-mile and half-mile options for ages 2 to 11. All 5K finishers will get a long sleeve technical shirt and medal. The race is linked to Hartford Marathon Foundation’s holiday challenges: Sleigh the Ks, CLA Blue Back Mitten Run for a beanie, and 12Ks of Christmas for a sweatshirt, with an optional ornament. Participants may also bring household cleaning supplies or personal hygiene items for The Care Cabinet at Reliance Health.

The Niantic Jingle 5K starts and finishes at McCook Point Beach & Park in Niantic, Connecticut, during the holiday season. It is a 5K walk/run with a 10:00 AM start, and the setup is deliberately broad: people can race it, walk it, push a stroller, enter on their own, or come with a team. Niantic Main Street organizes the event, and Brian's Healing Hearts manages it. The race raises money for the Brian Dagle Foundation and Brian's Healing Hearts Center for Hope and Healing, which supports grieving adults and teaches suicide prevention and awareness in the community. A recent edition drew more than 1,700 registered participants, so this is a busy local road race rather than a small park jog.

The Catch A Leprechaun 5K is a St. Patrick's Day 5K run in Essex, starting at 10:00 am with race-day check-in available earlier. This race benefits the Region 4 Education Foundation, and registration is exclusively online, even on race day. The course follows a simple 5K path through town, not a long-distance or trail course. Students and staff from Region 4 receive a discounted entry fee. Early registrants will get custom short-sleeve shirts while available. Awards are presented to the overall male and female finishers, as well as the top three finishers in each age group for men and women, ranging from 12-and-under to 70-plus.

The Ospreys Dominion Wine Run 5k is a run/walk held at Osprey’s Dominion Vineyards in Peconic, New York, where a glass of wine awaits participants at the finish line. The primary distance is 5K, with a 0K option available for those who wish to enjoy the wine-run atmosphere without the running component. The event takes place at Osprey’s Dominion Vineyards on Main Road, and is part of the Wine Run format held at winery locations. The course winds through the vineyard, differing from city streets or typical road-race circuits, making the setting as appealing as the distance itself. Participants receive a T-shirt, custom race bib, souvenir wine glass, and finisher medal. The post-race activities feature wine tastings. This event is designed for wine enthusiasts, casual runners, walkers, and individuals viewing the 5K as a social gathering rather than a competitive speed event.