5K races near Sebago

The Waterford Fall Foliage 5K Road Race begins and ends on the Waterford Common. Before the main race, a 1 Mile Fun Run is held for children aged 12 and under; this run is free. The 5K race starts at noon. This event is a local road race, centered on a fall gathering on the Common and a simple local course. The 5K follows an out-and-back path along Route 35/37, going to Sweden Road and returning to the Common. The race has taken place for over twenty-four years. Proceeds benefit the Tony Waldeier Scholarship Fund, providing scholarships to seniors at Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School. A chili cook-off fundraiser organized by the Waterford Harrison PTO is also part of the day, making the race a fundraiser for both running and the school community.

The Cranmore Mountain Race sends runners up and down Cranmore Mountain in North Conway, New Hampshire, with the main race covering about 10 kilometers over two laps. It is an October mountain race, not a road race with a hill thrown in: the route uses ski slopes, mountain bike single track, and gravel service roads, so runners climb, descend, and change footing throughout the day. The two-lap race is part of the USATF-New England Mountain Racing Circuit, while a one-lap option gives runners about 5 kilometers on the same up-and-down terrain. The event has hosted five US Mountain Running Championships, which says a lot about the course’s credibility, and the current setup includes cash prizes, one aid station near the start and finish area, and USATF rules that ban poles and headphones.

The Panther 5K Pi Run is a 3.14-mile race in Yarmouth, Maine. It starts and finishes in front of North Yarmouth Academy’s lower school on Main Street. This is a morning event with race-day registration available. A virtual race option is also offered for those who wish to participate remotely. The route primarily follows paved footpaths, crossing bridges, entering the park, running alongside the river, and passing through the woods. The finish line is located just past the historic mill. All proceeds benefit the NYA Class of 2027 Project Graduation. The top three male and female finishers each receive a fresh pie from Clayton’s Cafe, fitting the Pi Run theme.

The Turkey Trot is a 5K run/walk starting at 14 Lower Tarbox Road in Hollis, Maine. This is the third year for the event, designed for those who wish to run, walk, or bring their family to a short, local race. The event is introducing a children’s price to encourage greater youth participation, aligning with its aim to establish the Turkey Trot as a family tradition. All entry fees are retained within the event and recreation program; each dollar raised supports the next 5K and strengthens community recreation in Hollis.

Dash for Dogs is an annual 5K in Maine. Participants can run or walk the course with their dogs, without dogs, or virtually. A separate option is available for children under 8; dogs are not permitted in the kids' event. The in-person route follows the Androscoggin Riverwalk path. The event supports animal care, with entry fees benefiting local and regional dogs in need. The supported organization offers shelter, food, medical care, behavioral support, and daily care for dogs and other companion animals. As one of Maine's races allowing dogs, practical rules are enforced: dogs require current vaccinations and must be on non-flex leashes.

It's Kentucky Derby Day. Join the Dash for the Derby 5K. Walkers are welcome. This race donates to "A RUNNING PASSION." Cash prizes for overall winners, plus post-race refreshments and awards at Marathon Sports. This may be a virtual event.

The Mental Health Matters 5k is a 5-kilometer race and festival held at McAlpine Creek Park on Monroe Road in Charlotte, North Carolina. The race begins at 9:00 AM, with the festival concluding at 11:00 AM, structuring the event around a morning run followed by time in the park. A 1.6 km route is also available, offering an accessible option for those who wish to participate without running the full 5k. The event focuses on mental health awareness alongside running. Its core message is that mental health is important for all ages, holds the same significance as physical health, and can impact anyone. Charlotte Running Company links the race to a wider series of local events. The festival format provides a communal space for runners, walkers, supporters, and families to gather around the concept of hope through solidarity.

Casey's Run is the annual 5K run or walk for the Scholarship Fund. The event is at Massabesic High School.