The Big Run Roanoke

The Big Run Roanoke

The Big Run Roanoke is an annual running event held in Roanoke, Virginia, to celebrate Global Running Day. The 2026 edition marks the 10th anniversary of this event, which is organized in partnership with Virginia Amateur Sports and Brooks Running. The event serves as the official 5K for the Virginia Commonwealth Games, a competition focused on amateur athletics.

Participants can choose from the following events:

• 5K (Timed): A 3.1-mile out-and-back course on the Tinker Greenway.
• The Little Run: A free fun run designed for children.

The 5K course starts and finishes at Fallon Park. This race is timed nationally, allowing participants to compare their results with runners across the country. Capacity for the timed event is limited to the first 350 registrants. The first 300 participants to register for the timed 5K receive a race medal, and those who register by May 24th are guaranteed a race shirt.

The event includes an awards ceremony following the races. Awards are presented to the top three male and female finishers, as well as the top three male and female masters athletes. Recognition is also provided for the top three finishers in various age groups, ranging from 14 and under to 75 and up. Unique to this event is the Middle of the Pack Award, given to the runner who finishes exactly in the center of the results.

Parking is available at Fallon Park near the pool or at the Greenway entrance. The event also functions as a fundraiser for Smiles4Tab, a local non-profit organization. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.