Ayaan Mukherjee Down the shore, fall racing means finish lines with ocean views, boardwalks, and so many good reasons to lace up. From pizza parties in Seaside Heights, complimentary wine at a Cape May vineyard and Halloween-costumed sprints along the beach. All these races create a fun season that can help support causes that matter, like food banks, fallen first responders, and local recreation programs. Read on for a full lineup of the fall 5Ks happening along the Jersey Shore this year.
Stop Drop and Run 5k + 10k
Barnegat – 9/5
The Stop, Drop & Run 5K takes place in Barnegat on September 5th, with the race beginning at 9AM from the Barnegat Bay Municipal Docks. Hosted by the Barnegat Fire Company, the race features a fast, flat waterfront course along with a Fun Run, 10K, live music, vendors and a post-race celebration.
Lake Como Day 5k
Lake Como – 9/26
The Lake Como Day 5K will be on September 26th. The scenic 5K begins at 9AM at Joe’s Surf Shack and is presented by the Borough of Lake Como and the Jersey Shore Running Club. The race follows a course through the community and Lake Como while supporting local youth recreation programs and facilities.
OCNJ Half Marathon, 10 Mile & 5K
Ocean City – 10/4
The OCNJ Half Marathon, 10-Miler & 5K takes place in Ocean City on October 4th, with the 5K beginning at 8:40AM from the Ocean City Music Pier. The race showcases Ocean City’s famous boardwalk, downtown and ocean views on a fast, flat course while supporting Ocean City Recreation Scholarships and Programs through event proceeds.
Ocean Running Club’s Seaside Half Marathon and 5K
Seaside Park – 10/4
The Ocean Running Club’s Seaside Half Marathon and 5K takes place in Seaside Park on October 4th, with the 5K beginning at 7:30AM from Sawmill Cafe. The event is hosted by the Ocean Running Club, the race offers a fast, flat course showcasing the beauty of the Jersey Shore with options for both a 5K and half marathon, plus the unique Seaside Challenge for runners completing both events back-to-back.
Run the Vineyards – Down the Shore 5K
Cape May – 10/18
The Run The Vineyards – Down the Shore 5K is in Cape May on October 18th. The 5K begins at 9AM at Cape May Winery. It is hosted by Good Day for a Run and the 14th annual occurrence of this race features a mostly flat, paved course through the vineyard followed by a celebration with live music, a complimentary glass of wine, and a souvenir wine glass for participants.
2026 Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk Jersey Shore
Wall – 10/18
The 2026 Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk is in Wall Township on Sunday, October 18th, with the 5K beginning at 8:30AM. The annual event honors fallen first responders and supports the Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s mission of helping military members, first responders and their families, bringing together runners and supporters for a meaningful tribute.
5K Race for Recovery on the Boardwalk
Ocean Grove – 10/24
The 5K Race for Recovery on the Boardwalk takes place in Ocean Grove on October 24th. The 5K begins at 9:30AM and features a scenic flat course along the boardwalk into Bradley Beach and back. The race was formerly known as the Jersey Shore Rescue Mission 5K and proceeds support the Market Street Mission’s programs for people experiencing homelessness, hunger and addiction.
Seaside Heights – 5K For Pizza
Seaside Heights – 10/24
The 5K for Pizza takes place in Seaside Heights on October 24th, with the 5K beginning at 10AM from the Seaside Heights Boardwalk. Participants can enjoy a flat, scenic course along the ocean before a post-race pizza festival where every finisher gets two slices of pizza from local pizzerias.
Read More: A Definitive List of the Jersey Shore’s Best Boardwalks
JSRC Deal Trick or Trot
Deal – 10/25
The JSRC Trick or Trot 5K takes place in Deal on October 31st. It is a spooky, Halloween-themed race with a flat, fast course along the Jersey Shore, with participants encouraged to wear costumes while supporting the Jersey Shore Running Club. The 5K begins at 9AM from Deal Casino Beach Club.
River Rock ‘N Run 5K 2026
Brick – 11/22
The River Rock ‘N’ Run 5K is on November 22nd in Brick. The 5K begins at 9AM from River Rock Restaurant and Marina Bar. The riverfront race is a scenic experience which will feature both individual and relay options, with all proceeds benefiting Fulfill, the Monmouth/Ocean County Foodbank, and participants can enjoy a post-race celebration with food, prizes and raffles.
Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children Turkey Trot 5K Run/1.5 Mile Walk
Avalon – 11/27
The Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children Turkey Trot 5K Run & 1.5 Mile Walk will take place in Avalon on November 27th, with the 5K beginning at 10AM. The annual event supports the Helen L. Diller Vacation Home for Blind Children and features awards for top finishers, costume contests and a family-friendly atmosphere.
See More: New Jersey Summer Concerts 2026: A Guide to Shows Across the State
Follow @thejerseyshoregirl_ on Instagram for the latest Jersey Shore updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 40+ events weekly to peruse.
