Annual Fort Walton Beach Races: 5K, 10K, and Half Marathons
Whether you're an avid runner or just looking for a fun way to stay active, participating in a Fort Walton Beach marathon, half marathon, 10K, or 5K adds an unforgettable experience to your trip. These races provide an opportunity to explore the beautiful coastal scenery, participate in our welcoming community, and experience some Southern hospitality. Enjoy race-related events such as post-race parties to elevate the fun. Lace-up your running shoes and turn your beach getaway into an adventure on the move with a Fort Walton Beach race. From half marathons to fun runs, we have you covered.
Run a Race in Fort Walton Beach
Viking Color Run 5K Run and 5K Walk
The Viking Color Run happens each January and offers a 5K walk or run option. The race is held at Fort Walton Beach High School, where participants will follow the Billy Bowleg and Josh Sprinkle Course. A limited number of t-shirts and medals are given to participants.
Frosty 5K
Each January, the Frosty 5K is organized to benefit Saint Mary Catholic School students. This festive event is more than just a race. Participants are invited to join in a celebration of community, fitness, and giving back. T-shirts are typically given to registered runners. After the run, there is a party in the gymnasium with live music, hot food, donuts, and beer.
Fort Mardis Gras 5K
The Fort Mardis Gras 5K is a family-friendly event for all to enjoy each February. Each participant will receive a custom Mardi Gras MEDAL and is invited to the post-race party. There will be vendors, face painting, food, music, beads, and beer! This race aims to bring awareness to mental health and wellness.
Valentine's 8K
Celebrate Valentine's Day with the annual Valentine's 8K, hosted by the Northwest Florida Track Club. This Fort Walton Beach race features a flat and fast course with options for a walk or run. The course starts at Ferry Park and winds through beautiful neighborhoods. Participants can expect cool awards, a long-sleeved T-shirt for the first 100 registrants, and a great post-race party back at the park.
Lucky Leprechaun 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run
This St. Patrick's Day-themed race takes place in March and is organized by Run With It, Inc. It features a fast, flat course through the Beachview neighborhood with an awards ceremony and after-party at AJ's on the Bayou. The Lucky Leprechaun 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run proceeds go to The Northwest Florida Track Club Fund to maintain a rubberized track in Okaloosa County.
Get Lucky 10K and Half Marathon
Run With It, Inc. also hosts the annual Get Lucky Half Marathon in Fort Walton Beach. This event offers 10K and half marathon options and begins and ends at Ferry Park. Runners and walkers are invited to register. The course traverses the scenic neighborhoods of downtown FWB and features an after-party at the park. Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite St. Patrick's Day attire and costumes.
Diane Keller Kiwanis 5K
The Diane Keller Kiwanis 5K comes to town each May and is an energizing event. The funds raised from this race support Children in Crisis, a non-profit organization that provides homes and services for abused, neglected, and abandoned children in the local area. The race begins and ends at Buffalo Wild Wings in Fort Walton Beach and features a fun after-party with wings and beer.
Billy Bowlegs 5K and Kids Fun Run
The annual Billy Bowlegs 5K and Kids Fun Run kicks off the summer running season each June. This marquee event has been running for fifty years and includes a festive post-race gathering with live music, food and drinks, and fun with friends. The race begins and ends at Fort Walton Beach High School.
Josh Sprinkle Memorial 5K
Beat the heat with this annual August run. The Josh Sprinkle Memorial 5K kicks off at the crack of dawn and features pre-race donuts, bagels, and fruit. Participants are invited to stick around to win fantastic door prizes and enjoy the post-race picnic. This event is organized by Run With It, Inc.
If you are looking for a great place to grab a bite to eat after a race, there a many restaurants in FWB to choose from!
Wicked Triple Fun Run: 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon
If you are ready to carve out some time for spookactular fun, then register for the Wicked Triple Fun Run. This Fort Walton Beach race offers registrants the option for a 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon run. Participants are even dared to run all three races in two days! Join Run With It, Inc. and the Northwest Florida Track Club for this thrilling October event.
Recycle Run 5K
Kick off the holidays on Thanksgiving Day with the annual Recycle Run 5K. The entry fee is around $10, and participants are requested to make donations of non-perishable goods. Proceeds help local families and individuals who are challenged with food insecurity. This race is a fabulous opportunity to give back to the community and burn a few calories on Turkey Day. Join the Northwest Florida Track Club at Ferry Park for this event.
Special Forces Association Jingle Bell Jog
Join the Special Forces Association Chapter 7 for their annual Jingle Bell Jog. This December event includes 5K, 10K, and a kid's half-mile fun run. Participants are encouraged to dress in festive Christmas costumes to foster the holiday spirit. In past years, this run has been held at the Island Resort Hotel on Okaloosa Island.
Reindeer Dash 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run
The Reindeer Dash 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run is an annual December event. Proceeds from the race support the Fort Walton Beach Fire Department's Christmas for Kids Toy Drive. Participants can expect a fast, flat course through the Beachview area and an epic after-party at AJ's on the Bayou. Medals and long-sleeve t-shirts are given to runners and walkers.
Egg Nog Jog 5K
Keep your holidays merry and bright with the Egg Nog Jog 5K. The race starts at Buffalo Wild Wings at Uptown Station. There is a post-race party featuring egg nog, Christmas cakes, and wings.
Round the Bay Relay and Ultra-Marathon
In late December, runners can take their mark for the Round the Bay Relay and Ultra. This event offers both relay and ultra-marathon options, challenging participants to a longer-distance race around the bay area.
Fort Walton Beach Race Information
Whether you are looking for a half marathon in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, or a short fun run, there are plenty of options throughout the year. Here are a few websites and social media accounts to reference for up-to-date race information and dates.
Book Your Stay at Seaspray Condominiums
Seaspray Condominiums is an ideal place to stay if you visit Fort Walton Beach for a vacation, a work trip, or a specific event. With excellent amenities and a fantastic location, guests love staying at this beachfront resort-style community.
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