Lace up for a spooktacular start to October at the Haunted 5K, 10K, & Half Marathon, set to haunt Ben Geren Regional Park in Fort Smith, AR, on Saturday, October 3, 2026. This festive event offers runners a choice of distances including a Half Marathon (13.1M), 10K, and 5K, all kicking off at 8:30 AM. As autumn descends, typical race day conditions in Fort Smith present comfortable highs around 80F and lows near 58F, with only a 12% chance of precipitation, promising ideal running weather for your ghostly gallop.
The race unfolds within the picturesque setting of Ben Geren Regional Park, providing a scenic backdrop for your run. All distances feature an out-and-back course design, with the 5K completing two loops of a 0.78-mile route, the 10K tackling four loops, and Half Marathoners pushing through six loops of a 1.09-mile segment. This family-friendly event, part of the US Road Running Race Series, promises a lively atmosphere where participants are encouraged to embrace the "Haunted" theme.
What truly sets this event apart is the opportunity to showcase your creativity in the "Best Costume" contest, adding a fun, ghoulish twist to your race day. Every runner crossing the finish line will be celebrated with a unique themed medal, a perfect memento of your achievement. Packet pickup begins 30 minutes before the 8:30 AM start, concluding just 10 minutes prior, and all registrations must be completed online, as no on-site registration is available. Runners should head to the parking lot located across from the playground for race day logistics.
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