A group of costumed runners past the start line of the 2024 Hell on Earth Halloween 5K in Forest Park.
Photo by Charly Hustle
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The spooky season is in the air, and Halloween-themed races are in full motion this month. As the autumn temperatures settle in, now is the perfect time to plan out a race (or two) with your running tribe. Celebrate the Day of the Dead with a race event dedicated to the Mexican tradition or wear your best costume at an annual 5K.
Whether you’re competing for trophies or enjoying the fall vibes, October races offer the best leaf-crunching, wind-sweeping atmosphere. Wear your best running jacket and scroll through these brisk runs in the borough.
LaGuardia Community 5K Run/Walk – Long Island City
Sunday, Oct. 19
A crowd of runners sprinting past the start line of the 2024 LaGuardia Community 5K Run/Walk in Long Island City. Photo via Elitefeats
Run through Borden Avenue and Skillman Avenue at this scenic 5K. Hosted by LaGuardia Community College, this race will provide a jump start to your morning exercise. The registration fees are $28.63 for the 5K and virtual 5K, and $13.10 for students and participants
aged seven to 17. Please note that the 7 train will be out of service this weekend due to track maintenance.
This year’s beneficiary is Finca La Florecita, an urban farm preserved by LaGuardia Community College students and faculty. A post-race entertainment section will be available to runners and spectators. All 5K participants receive a commemorative t-shirt.
Run Rockaway Beach Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K – Rockaway Beach
Saturday, Oct. 25
Catch some autumn waves at this Rockaway Beach race event, featuring the 5K, half-marathon and marathon. Please note that there are two separate waves for the marathon — the first wave starts at 6:30 a.m. and the second wave starts at 8 a.m.
Organized by the Rockaway Track Club, these cardio events offer fun strides for everyone, whether you’re an experienced or novice runner. The registration fees are $48.70 for the 5K, $69.90 for the half-marathon and $101.70 for the marathon. Online registration ends on Friday, Oct. 24, at 4:59 p.m. for all races.
Day of the Dead 5K & Half Marathon – Corona
Sunday, Oct. 26
A runner dressed in a skeleton costume running from the Unisphere at the 2023 Day of the Dead 5K & Half Marathon in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Photo via Elitefeats
As the registration page says, “¡Correr Nunca Muere!” or “Running Never Dies!” Ring in the Day of the Dead with a 5K or half-marathon through the panoramic Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Original, well-made costumes are also encouraged, as runners will be voting on the
best costume. All proceeds will benefit the Never Stop Running Foundation, a nonprofit that supports athleticism across all levels.
A runner dressed in a bee costume at the 2024 Day of the Dead 5K & Half Marathon in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Photo via Elitefeats
The registration fees are $47.26 for the in-person 5K, $49.33 for the virtual 5K, $75.20 for the in-person half-marathon and $80.38 for the virtual half-marathon. Please note that there will be a price increase on Race Day. To receive a race bib via mail, add $10.35 to the registration fee. Runners will receive a T-shirt and a medal.
Hell on Earth Halloween 5K – Richmond Hill
Sunday, Oct. 26
At this festive 5K, running through Forest Park Drive for three miles will send chills down your spine. The registration fee is $35, but please note that there will be a price increase after Saturday, Oct. 25, at 11:59 p.m. The fee is $25 for participants under 12. All runners receive a custom beanie, medal, and treats. To enhance your Halloween race experience, wear a costume.
24th Annual Totten Trot 5K Run/Walk – Bayside
Sunday, Oct. 26
A pair of runners at the 2024 Hell on Earth Halloween 5K in Forest Park. Photo by Charly Hustle
Sprint down Fort Totten at this costume-friendly 5K, where cash prizes are awarded to the top three male and female winners. The registration fee is $38.98, but the price will increase to $44.15 on Race Day. The event will welcome the return of the 501st Legion’s Empire City Garrison, an all-volunteer costuming organization that focuses on Star Wars.
The race proceeds will benefit the Bayside Historical Society, a community institution that collects and preserves the storied history of Bayside. All participants can enter an array of raffles for a chance to win gift certificates from restaurants and other small businesses. The
overall male and female winners will also receive the following cash prizes: $100 for first place, $75 for second place and $50 for third place.