Are you interested in participating in a 5K or 10K run in Vegas? Whether you want to take the less traveled path or join a crowd of other runners, there are many great choices to explore.
Check out some of these annual Las Vegas 5K and 10k runs.
Las Vegas Great Santa Run
A festive favorite, the Las Vegas Great Santa Run is a holiday-themed race for charity. It is held annually in early December, with a virtual event offered during the month. The proceeds benefit Opportunity Village as one of its most important fundraisers.
The Santa Run annually attracts thousands to Fremont Street in Downtown Vegas, including celebrities such as Shania Twain, Wayne Newton, and Holly Madison. As the name suggests, runners are encouraged to wear Santa suits and Christmas-themed attire.
The race will take place on the 7th of December. Registration from September 30th to November 22nd puts the price of a ticket at $45. From November 23 to December 7th the price for a ticket goes up to $55.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas
Described as the ultimate running party, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas races occur in February each year. The half marathon, 10K, and 5K runs celebrate Las Vegas with a themed race, including heavy rock music and flashy lights.
The 10K takes place the same day as the half marathon. The 5K is run a day earlier and occurs entirely in Downtown Las Vegas.
In addition to the races, there is an opportunity to participate in a yoga event on the Strip. You can also run this race for free if you raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The race no longer holds a full marathon, but it still attracts thousands worldwide and has gained considerable media attention.
Las Vegas St. Patrick’s Day Run
The annual Las Vegas St. Patrick’s Day Run includes 1-mile, 5K, 12K, and half marathon races in Boulder City, about 20 miles from Vegas. The historical run takes participants through the Historic Railroad Trailhead in Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
Thousands of people attend each year. While called the “St. Patrick’s Day Run,” the event takes place on the weekend before the holiday. It’s a perfect race to attend if you’re visiting for one of the biggest party holidays in Vegas.
The Bootlegger
The Bootlegger (previously known as Blood, Sweat, & Beers) is held in partnership with Crafthaus Brewery. The Bootlegger will take place at Bootleg Canyon Park in Boulder City in late March.
The 5k and 10k races are completely run on trails (these are companion races to longer 25k and 50k races). Entries are limited.
Free camping is available near the startline race location all weekend.
The races begin on a jeep trail and climb for about one mile of challenging terrain. It then descends quickly and loops back around to the jeep trail.
Since this race takes place on rougher terrain, it attracts a smaller attendance than others in Vegas, making it perfect for those looking to avoid crowds.
Las Vegas Turkey Trot
For more than the past dozen years, The Las Vegas Turkey Trot has been attracting hundreds of families every Thanksgiving morning.
Located at the Historic Railroad Trail, off the Hoover Dam Lodge Parking Lot in Boulder City, participants pass through the six tunnels leading to the Hoover Dam. Fittingly, the winner’s medal often features the Dam, although designs change annually.
The cost of the 5K typically begins at $30. The 2024 date of this race has not been released at the time of this writing.
The Hallowrock Run
The Hallowrock Run, including 10k, 5k, and 1-mile run, is typically held in October annually in celebration of Halloween. It is being held on October 27 this year! The themed run includes prizes for runners sporting the scariest and most unique costumes, attracting between 500 and 1000 attendees annually.
The races have begun at the PKWY Tavern on the Western Beltway Trail and provide terrific views of the Strip as you head towards the finish line. The 2024 date of this race has yet to be released at the time of this writing.