Gobble Waddle 5K/10K

Lace up your running shoes and join the community for the 18th Annual Gobble Waddle 5K/10K on Saturday, November 21, 2026, in scenic Smithfield, NC. This festive and family-friendly event, presented by HealthQuest Fitness and Wellness Center, offers both a timed run and a fun walk, welcoming participants of all ages and activity levels. Whether you're aiming for a personal best in the 5K or 10K, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll with loved ones, strollers and leashed dogs are encouraged to join the fun. Race day typically brings comfortable autumn temperatures, with highs around 64F and lows near 38F, and only a 12% chance of precipitation, providing ideal conditions for a Thanksgiving-themed trot.

The course itself, starting from 218 S. 2nd St., Smithfield, NC, offers a "rolling" terrain with an engaging "out and back" style, incorporating several turns before culminating in an uphill finish. Runners can expect well-supported routes with water stations and numerous enthusiastic volunteers guiding the way. Beyond the finish line, the Gobble Waddle creates a heartwarming atmosphere, complete with hot chocolate, finisher medals for all participants, and special prizes for youth under 17.

What truly sets the Gobble Waddle apart is its spirit of giving. In the lead-up to Thanksgiving, participants are encouraged to bring at least five canned food items to donate, supporting local food banks and the SECU Hospice House. The event boasts a reputation for being well-organized, with immediate results and a strong sense of community, where even the last finishers are cheered across the line. Ample free parking is conveniently located within a quarter-mile of the 9:00 a.m. start time, ensuring a smooth race day experience for everyone.