Rocket to the Moon 5k 2026

The Rocket to the Moon 5k begins and ends at the Auglaize County Fairgrounds in Wapakoneta, Ohio, Neil Armstrong's hometown, on July 4. This event includes a 5k run/walk, a Kids 1-Mile Fun Run, and a virtual 5k option. It is part of the Moon City Challenge, which also features the Moonlight Glow Run and Run to the Moon. Participants who register for the full Moon Series are eligible to receive an additional Moon Challenge Medal. The route follows paved roads through Wapakoneta and is predominantly flat, making it suitable for walkers, local runners, children, and those seeking a simple holiday 5k. The Moon theme extends beyond the town's Apollo heritage, connecting to Moon trees. These trees originated from seeds that orbited the Moon on Apollo 14 and were later part of Artemis I. Most of the Apollo seeds sprouted, resulting in approximately 420 seedlings planted across the United States and internationally.