Whether you want to push yourself to get a new PR or want a fun way to be active, a race is the perfect way to do it! From fundraisers to costume contests to serious races, there is an event in Fort Wayne for every runner in the family! 

Fun Runs in Fort Wayne 

16th Annual Fort4Fitness Fall Festival

This race is the largest fitness event to hit Fort Wayne! With so many races, you get to choose which one is right for you, whether that means a 1.2 mile lap for Seniors and Kids on the 29th, or one of the four race distances on the 30th (4 mile, 10K, Half Marathon, Triple Crown). Virtual races are available for the 30th too! Post race, join the celebration and expo.

Date: September 29/30, 2023

Location: Downtown Fort Wayne

Register Now

Fort4Fitness Fall Festival - Fort Wayne, IN

Day at the Farm and Cross Country Gallop

Whether you decide to walk, run, bike, or rollerblade through this race, it is guaranteed to be fun for the whole family! This event, hosted by Oak Hill Farm for therapeutic riding, will directly benefit the stables and the initiatives they take to make horseback riding accessible for the handicapped. After the race, enjoy live music, a country cookout, games, hay rides, pumpkin painting and more!

Date: October 1, 2023

Location: Oak Hill Farm

Register Now

Oak Hill Therapeutic Riding

23rd Annual River City Rat Race 10K & 5K Race/Walk

Hal Higdon of Runner’s World Magazine called this race “one of the most scenic 10K's I've ever run.” Walkers, joggers and sprinters alike are encouraged to take part in one of downtown Fort Wayne’s favorite traditions. Run through scenic autumn parks and along the beautiful riverfront with fellow racers. Even take part in one of their community training programs!

Date: October 15, 2023

Location: Historic Old Fort

Register Now

Family biking along Fort Wayne's downtown trails near the Old Fort

3rd Annual Werewolf Chase

Outrun werewolves in this Halloween-themed fun run! This 5K race is a perfect family-friendly way to get exercise and celebrate the spooky season for free in Fort Wayne. Dress up in costumes, power up your fitness tracking device, and try not to get caught by the werewolves! First prize will get a $50 gift card from Fort Wayne Fleet Feet and those who aren't caught will get a cool finisher medal.

Date: October 21, 2023

Location: Fort Wayne Outfitters

Register Now

fort wayne canoe rentals

Winter Wonder Dash 5K and 2K

Round out your autumn race schedule by getting in the holiday spirit. Runners will gather in Franke Park to witness the first lighting of the park’s Fantasy of Lights display! Although this is an evening race, you will be able to see the course through illuminated by the beautiful lights! If you prefer to run on your own or at a different place or time, virtual options are available for both races. This event you surely won’t want to miss.

Date: November 17/18

Location: Franke Park

Register Now

family dressed in christmas pajamas after running a 5k race

Find More Races in Allen County Here!

This post was originally published in September 2017 and has been updated. Last Updated: July 2023