Catch-A-Pig 5K & 1K Bacon Stroll

Get ready for a unique and utterly delightful experience at the 12th annual Catch-A-Pig 5K & 1K Bacon Stroll, taking place on Sunday, August 16, 2026, in scenic Bel Air, Maryland. This event isn't just a race; it's a thrilling chase along the picturesque Ma & Pa Heritage Trail, an out-and-back course that promises engaging scenery and a family-friendly, easily navigable path. Typical race day conditions in mid-August bring highs around 88F and lows around 72F, with a modest 15% chance of precipitation, creating a warm and vibrant atmosphere for runners and walkers alike.

What truly sets the Catch-A-Pig apart is its playful "chase" format and commitment to community. The 5K kicks off with young runners, affectionately dubbed "piglets," sporting pink pig shirts and getting a three-minute head start. Participants in the 5K will vie to "catch" at least one piglet before the finish line to be entered into a special prize drawing. But beware, the "Big, Bad Wolves"—local running scholars—are unleashed seven minutes after the main start, giving chase to everyone! If all the wolves pass you, you'll miss out on the special prize drawing.

Both the 5K and the leisurely 1K Bacon Stroll offer a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Ma & Pa Trail, starting and finishing at the William Street Trailhead. This celebrated event, founded in 2012, has grown into one of the region's most popular races, raising over $50,000 for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Harford and Cecil Counties. It's a truly family-focused affair, even welcoming your leashed canine companions for an additional fee. Expect a day filled with crazy fun, a chance to win fantastic local prizes, and an unforgettable experience supporting a great cause.