Cannonball Running Festival - Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K & 5K

Gear up for the Cannonball Running Festival, a premier running celebration in Greensboro, NC, taking place on October 16-17, 2026. This historic event, boasting over 20 years of tradition, offers a diverse range of distances including a 5K on Friday, October 16th, and a Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10K on Saturday, October 17th. For those seeking an extra challenge, the unique "Double Barrel Challenge" allows runners to conquer the Friday evening 5K and then tackle any of the longer distances on Saturday, earning additional "bling" and bragging rights. Known as the "LARGEST celebration of running in our region," the Cannonball Running Festival is a must-do for its vibrant community atmosphere and well-organized experience.

The course itself provides a beautiful fall backdrop, winding through Country Park and along the scenic A & Y greenway, with views of Lake Brandt. Runners frequently praise the "beautiful fall course" and the "well organized" nature of the event. While featuring "rolling hills" and described by some as "hiller than expected," the mostly out-and-back, closed greenway course offers just as many downhills as uphills, making it engaging without being overly daunting. Marathoners will complete two loops of the course, which is also a Boston Qualifier. Expect plenty of aid stations and supportive volunteers throughout your run.

Beyond the race itself, the Cannonball Running Festival shines with its festive post-race celebration, taking place at Country Park, Greensboro's running Mecca. Participants can look forward to custom finisher medals, a long-sleeved race shirt, and a lively atmosphere with local craft breweries pouring all day Saturday. Typical race day conditions in mid-October offer comfortable running weather, with historical highs around 72°F and lows around 51°F, and only a 12% chance of precipitation, creating ideal conditions for a personal best or simply a fantastic race day experience.