Runners, get your gear ready!
New York Road Runners announced three free, beginner-friendly races across Manhattan, Queens and the Bronx scheduled to take place through the rest of summer.
As part of the Summer Streets initiative, which includes 20 miles of car-free streets in New York City, the NYRR Start Line Series program is set to return, offering three-mile courses for beginner athletes.
Last year, the program’s debut drew more than 1,100 participants across Brooklyn and Queens. This summer, runners, walkers and families will hit the streets of New York City in two new locations at a professionally produced NYRR event.
Although the event is open to the public, organizers recommend it for kids ages 8 and older. Sign up for the races here.
Here’s what to know:
Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 9:30 a.m.
Distance: 3 Miles
The race starts on Vernon Boulevard, south of 33rd Road, and heads south in the northbound lanes.
Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 7:30 a.m.
Distance: 5K
The race starts on Park Avenue at East 80th Street and heads north. Runners will pass Uptown neighborhoods before continuing alongside the elevated train.
Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 9:30 a.m.
Distance: 5K
The race starts on the Grand Concourse at 180th Street and heads north, where runners will pass Edgar Allan Poe Park.