Your Guide to Upcoming 5Ks in Rowan County Spring & Summer 2026
Looking for a fun way to stay active, connect with the community, or support a great cause? Rowan County is full of opportunities to hit the pavement this spring and summer.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best, walking with friends, or training with a local run club, there’s a race for everyone. Here’s your guide to upcoming 5Ks happening across Rowan County in 2026:
Spring 5Ks You Don’t Want to Miss
Girls on the Run Spring 5K
📍 Salisbury Community Park
📅 May 2, 2026
This isn’t just a race, it’s a celebration of confidence, community, and empowerment. The Girls on the Run 5K brings together runners of all ages to support programs that inspire young girls right here in our community.
Wicked Wine Run
📍 Cauble Creek Vineyard
📅 May 2, 2026
Run (or walk!) through a scenic vineyard and celebrate at the finish line with a complimentary glass of wine. With both 1K and 5K options, this one is perfect for a more relaxed, social race experience.
China Grove 5K Main Street Challenge
📍 Downtown China Grove
📅 May 8, 2026
An evening race with small-town charm! This event includes a Tot Trot, kids fun run, and the main 5K—making it a great option for families. Stick around after for awards and community fun.
Ed Dupree Memorial 5K
📍 East Rowan High School
📅 May 16, 2026
Held in memory of Coach Ed Dupree, this meaningful race supports scholarships and the Novant Health Foundation. It’s a great way to run for a cause while honoring a local legacy.
Bare Bones 5K
📍 Overton Elementary School
📅 May 23, 2026
One of Rowan County’s longtime favorite races, the Bare Bones 5K is known for its welcoming atmosphere—and yes, free ice cream at the finish line. Proceeds benefit Relay For Life and cancer research efforts.
Summer 5Ks to Keep You Moving
Myles for a Mission 5K
📍 Salisbury (Grace Lutheran Church area)
📅 June 13, 2026
This impactful race raises awareness for childhood drowning prevention and supports lifesaving education and resources for families. A meaningful way to make every mile count.
Shiloh Mission 5K
📍 Faith, NC
📅 June 27, 2026
A community-focused run supporting mission efforts. Details are still being finalized, so stay tuned for registration info and updates!
5K for the Greenway
📍 Overton Elementary School / Salisbury Greenway
📅 July 18, 2026
Enjoy a scenic course along the Salisbury Greenway while supporting local initiatives. Participants are encouraged to bring donations for Rowan Helping Ministries.
Run All Season Long
Run Kannapolis 5K Series
📍 Kannapolis, NC
📅 Multiple dates (May–November 2026)
If one race isn’t enough, this ongoing series is for you. With multiple races throughout the year! You can stay active all season while supporting local businesses and nonprofits.
📸 City of Kannapolis
Looking to Train? Check Out Local Run Clubs
If you’re not quite ready to race—or just want some extra motivation—Rowan County has a growing running community that makes it easy to get started. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just getting into it, these local run clubs are all about connection, consistency, and having fun along the way.
Salisbury Rowan Runners
One of the area’s longest-standing run clubs, Salisbury Rowan Runners has been part of the local running scene since the late 1970s. Their mission is to promote health, fitness, and community through running and walking.
From organizing local races to supporting runners of all levels, this group truly offers a place for every pace—whether you’re training competitively or just getting started.
Salisbury Rowan Runners
New Sarum Brewing Run Club
📍 Downtown Salisbury
🗓️ Thursdays at 6:00 p.m.
Run through historic downtown Salisbury and finish with a well-earned drink at New Sarum Brewing Company. This welcoming group offers flexible route options and a fun, social atmosphere. Stick around after for trivia night and good company.
📸 New Sarum Run Club
Good People Run Club
📍 Bell Tower Park, Salisbury
🗓️ Mondays at 6:00 a.m.
A newer addition to the local running scene, Good People Run Club is all about building community in a positive, inclusive environment.
With multiple route options and a “come as you are” mentality, it’s a great way to start your week—and many runners grab coffee together afterward.
📸 Good People Run Club
Running from the Cartel (Grove Cartel Run Club)
📍 201 N. Main Street, China Grove
🗓️ Tuesdays at 6:15 p.m.
This China Grove-based group meets weekly for a run or walk through town, offering a consistent and welcoming space to stay active. Whether you’re logging miles or just getting moving, this crew brings strong community energy to every meetup.
📸 Grove Cartel Run Club
Run, Walk, & Connect
From scenic greenways and vineyard views to meaningful causes and community traditions, 5Ks in Rowan County are about more than just crossing the finish line.
They’re about:
- Supporting local nonprofits
- Connecting with neighbors
- Exploring new places
- And having a whole lot of fun along the way
Ready to Race?
No matter your pace, there’s a starting line waiting for you here in Rowan County. Grab your running shoes, invite a friend, and get ready to experience the energy of these local events.
Be sure to check individual race websites for registration details and updates.
Did we miss a local 5K?
Let us know! Reach out with the details at info@yourrowan.com and we’ll do our best to add it to this list.
